Joe Stapleton’s Comic Book “Trapped” Blends Poker, Hollywood, and Humor

Joe Stapleton, well-known poker commentator and host of Poker In The Ears, is set to release his comic book “Trapped”, a semi-autobiographical tale that delves into the world of poker and Hollywood ambition. The comic book, co-authored by Stapleton, follows the main character, named Joe, as he navigates the highs and lows of the poker world while grappling with his own aspirations outside of the game.

The idea for “Trapped” came about in 2020 when Stapleton was approached by former PokerStars colleague Kenny Diack, who was venturing into the comic book business and wanted to incorporate poker into the storyline. What started as a simple pitch quickly evolved into a passion project for Stapleton, who found himself deeply involved in the writing process alongside co-author Neil Gibson.

Drawing from his own experiences in the poker industry and his love for comics, Stapleton poured his creative energy into crafting a story that blends humor, action, and a touch of Hollywood glamour. Despite facing setbacks and challenges along the way, including the need to educate artists on the intricacies of poker, Stapleton remained dedicated to ensuring the authenticity of the poker scenes depicted in the comic.

As the Kickstarter campaign for “Trapped” prepares to launch in July, Stapleton is filled with excitement and pride for the project. He describes the comic as a mix of “Rounders”, “Deadpool”, and “House of Games”, highlighting its action-comedy and con movie elements. With a focus on humor and a deep appreciation for the poker community, Stapleton hopes that “Trapped” will resonate with fans and serve as a love letter to the game he holds dear.

Looking ahead, Stapleton is already considering future comic book projects and remains open to the idea of diving back into the world of comic book writing. As he juggles his various projects, including a summer stand-up tour and a recorded stand-up set in Las Vegas, Stapleton reflects on the journey of creating “Trapped” and the lessons learned along the way.

In the end, “Trapped” is not just a story about poker and Hollywood ambition, but a tale of self-discovery and gratitude. As the main character in the comic learns to appreciate the opportunities that poker has brought him, Stapleton hopes that readers will also find a sense of appreciation for the game and the experiences it has to offer.