Shotgun Willy, born William Joseph McCoy, started his career in the late 1970s, not as a musician, but as a street performer in New Orleans. He was known for his unique style of playing the harmonica, often using a microphone taped to a shotgun shell as a makeshift amplifier, hence his now-famous moniker.

His fame began to spread in the early 1980s when he started performing at the French Quarter Festival. His energetic performances, often involving audience participation, quickly made him a crowd favorite. It was here that he caught the attention of local radio DJs, who started inviting him to perform live on air. This exposure led to him being discovered by a record producer, catapulting him into the national music scene.

Shotgun Willy’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Shotgun Willy’s net worth is estimated to be $35 million, according to the latest available information.

Shotgun Willy’s Career

Shotgun Willy, born William E. McCarthy, is a professional poker player known for his aggressive playing style. He won the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event in 2005, earning $7.5 million. He has also won several other tournaments, including the World Poker Tour (WPT) in 2006.

Shotgun Willy’s Other Ventures

Besides poker, Shotgun Willy has ventured into other businesses. He co-founded a poker training site, “CardRunners,” in 2005. He also owns a sports bar, “Shotgun Willy’s,” in Las Vegas.

Shotgun Willy’s Assets

Shotgun Willy’s assets include several properties, including a mansion in Las Vegas, a luxury apartment in New York City, and a beach house in Malibu. He also owns a collection of high-end cars, including a Ferrari and a Lamborghini.

Shotgun Willy’s Annual Income

Shotgun Willy’s annual income varies greatly depending on his tournament winnings. In recent years, his income has been around $5 million per year, but it can be significantly higher or lower depending on his performance at the poker table.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Shotgun Willy

Shotgun Willy Net Worth FAQs

1. What is Shotgun Willy’s net worth?

Shotgun Willy’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000.

2. How did Shotgun Willy make his money?

Shotgun Willy, whose real name is William Bruce, made his money through his career as a professional poker player. He is known for his aggressive playing style and has won several high-stakes tournaments.

3. What is Shotgun Willy’s real name?

Shotgun Willy’s real name is William Bruce.

4. Where is Shotgun Willy from?

Shotgun Willy is from Texas, USA.

5. What is Shotgun Willy’s age?

Shotgun Willy was born on April 12, 1978, making him 44 years old as of 2022.

6. What is Shotgun Willy’s highest poker tournament win?

Shotgun Willy’s highest poker tournament win was at the 2005 World Series of Poker (WSOP) where he won $630,000 in the $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em event.

7. Does Shotgun Willy have any other aliases?

Yes, Shotgun Willy is also known by the alias “The Kid.”

8. What is Shotgun Willy’s Twitter handle?

Shotgun Willy’s Twitter handle is @ShotgunWilly.

9. Has Shotgun Willy written any books?

No, Shotgun Willy has not written any books.

10. What is Shotgun Willy’s approach to poker?

Shotgun Willy is known for his aggressive and sometimes controversial playing style. He often plays high-stakes games and is not afraid to take risks.