Tilman Fertitta

Tilman Joseph Fertitta (born June 25, 1957) is an American billionaire businessman and television personality. He is the chairman, CEO, and sole owner of Fertitta Entertainment, Inc., which owns the restaurant giant Landry's, Inc., and the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casinos. Fertitta is also known for his role on the CNBC reality show, Billion Dollar Buyer.

Early Life and Education

Tilman Fertitta was born in Galveston, Texas, into a family of Italian descent. From a young age, Fertitta showed an interest in the business world, working in his father's seafood restaurant. He attended Texas Tech University and the University of Houston, studying business administration and hospitality management.

Career

Fertitta's career began in the hospitality industry, where he helped manage his family's restaurant business. In 1980, he ventured into his own business, opening his first restaurant in Houston, Texas. This marked the beginning of what would become a vast empire in the hospitality and entertainment sectors.

In 1986, Fertitta gained control of Landry's Restaurants, a small seafood restaurant chain. Under his leadership, Landry's expanded significantly, acquiring numerous restaurants, hotels, and entertainment complexes, including the Golden Nugget casino brand. Today, Landry's operates more than 600 properties in 36 states and over 15 countries.

Fertitta's business interests have also extended beyond hospitality. In 2017, he purchased the Houston Rockets of the National Basketball Association (NBA) for $2.2 billion, a record price for an NBA team at the time.

Philanthropy

Fertitta is actively involved in various philanthropic efforts, focusing on education, health care, and the support of the military and first responders. He has contributed to numerous charitable organizations and has served on the boards of several non-profit institutions.

Personal Life

Tilman Fertitta is married and has four children. He resides in Houston, Texas, where he is a prominent figure in the community.

Controversies

Throughout his career, Fertitta has faced criticism and legal challenges related to his business practices. However, he has maintained a reputation for being a savvy and successful entrepreneur.

In Popular Culture

Fertitta's business acumen and personality led him to star in the CNBC reality show Billion Dollar Buyer, where he evaluates products from small businesses for potential inclusion in his vast network of properties.

See Also

• Landry's, Inc.
• Golden Nugget Hotel and Casinos
• Houston Rockets
• Billion Dollar Buyer