Martin Scorsese’s Casino (1995) isn’t just one of the greatest crime films ever made — it’s also home to one of the most iconic ensemble casts in movie history. The casino movie cast delivered powerful performances that brought the gritty glamour and brutality of 1970s Las Vegas to life. From seasoned veterans to unforgettable supporting roles, the film’s casting was key to its lasting legacy.
An All-Star Casino Movie Cast
Robert De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein
At the heart of Casino is Robert De Niro, playing meticulous gambling expert Sam “Ace” Rothstein. De Niro’s performance as the calm, calculating casino operator gave the movie its moral anchor — even as his character becomes increasingly entangled in chaos.
This wasn’t De Niro’s first time working with Scorsese. Their long-time collaboration (including Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas) helped shape modern crime cinema.
Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna
One of the standout performances in the casino movie cast is Sharon Stone’s role as Ginger. A former showgirl with a self-destructive streak, Ginger is both glamorous and tragic. Stone’s portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress — and it remains one of her most acclaimed performances to date.
Stone brought depth and vulnerability to the role, capturing the emotional complexity of a woman torn between loyalty, addiction, and ambition.
Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro
No crime film cast is complete without Joe Pesci — and in Casino, he delivers another unforgettable role as the violent enforcer Nicky Santoro. Loosely based on real-life mobster Tony Spilotro, Santoro is unpredictable, brutal, and ultimately self-destructive.
Pesci’s raw intensity and chemistry with De Niro add tension to every scene, making him a standout in the casino movie cast.
James Woods as Lester Diamond
James Woods takes on the sleazy role of Lester Diamond, Ginger’s manipulative ex-boyfriend and pimp. His character might be secondary, but Woods’ slimy charm makes him memorable — and essential to Ginger’s downward spiral.
Don Rickles as Billy Sherbert
Legendary comedian Don Rickles surprises audiences with his dramatic turn as Billy Sherbert, Ace’s loyal casino manager. His role might be quieter, but his steady presence adds realism and heart to the story.
Supporting Cast and Realism
The film also includes strong performances from Kevin Pollak, Frank Vincent, Alan King, and others. What makes the casino movie cast so compelling is how seamlessly the actors fit into the gritty, high-stakes world of mob-run Las Vegas.
Scorsese is known for his ability to extract authentic, layered performances — and Casino is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling.
Behind the Scenes: Casting the Roles
Scorsese’s casting choices weren’t just about star power — they were about chemistry and realism. The actors were chosen for their ability to embody real-life figures from the Las Vegas underworld. Many characters were based on true people, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
The result? A film where every member of the casino movie cast feels authentic, believable, and essential to the story.
Why the Cast Still Matters Today
Nearly 30 years after its release, Casino continues to resonate with audiences — thanks largely to its cast. The performances have aged well, and the dynamic between De Niro, Pesci, and Stone remains electrifying.
Their portrayals offer a timeless look at ambition, loyalty, greed, and betrayal — all set against the backdrop of Sin City’s golden era.
Final Thoughts
The casino movie cast wasn’t just great — it was perfect for the story Scorsese wanted to tell. With powerhouse performances, emotional depth, and authentic character portrayals, Casino remains a classic that crime film fans revisit again and again.
Whether you’re watching for the drama, the fashion, or the sheer acting talent, this cast is what makes Casino a timeless masterpiece.