Kenna James biography
Kenna James, nicknamed "Cowboy," was born on December 18, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, and now resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has built a tournament career spanning more than two decades, reaching over 100 final tables and winning more than 20 titles, with career earnings surpassing $3.5 million. His career-high cash came in 2006, when he finished runner-up in the PartyPoker Million Cruise for $700,000, and he added a runner-up finish at the 2005 WPT Legends of Poker. Beyond the felt, James has pursued careers in acting from 1985 to 1995, poker television commentary since 2005, personal coaching, and charity work.
Career summary
Chicago-born veteran nicknamed "Cowboy" with over 100 career final tables and $3.5 million in earnings across more than two decades of play.
Kenna James poker winnings
| Year | Event | Place | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | LA Poker Classic | 1st | $242,251 |
| 2009 | WSOP $2,500 Razz | 6th | N/A |
| 2006 | PartyPoker Million Cruise | 2nd | $700,000 |
| 2005 | WPT Legends of Poker | 2nd | $588,210 |
| 2003 | WSOP $2,500 No-Limit Hold'em | 4th | N/A |
Verified live tournament earnings: $3,500,000+.
Kenna James playing style
A seasoned, well-rounded veteran with deep experience across both No-Limit Hold'em and stud-family tournament formats.
Cash games
Primarily a tournament specialist; limited public data on cash game play.
Business & sponsorships
Former actor (1985-1995); poker television commentator since 2005; personal poker coach.
Kenna James Net Worth
As of November 2026, Kenna James net worth estimates range from $2 million to $5 million.
Verified live tournament earnings account for $3.5M of prize money. Sponsorships, business ventures and cash games, covered above, make up the rest of the picture. Tournament prize money is not the same as profit: buy-ins, staking deals and taxes are not deducted, so all net worth figures are estimates based on public reporting.
Why Kenna matters
The Chicago-born pro nicknamed "Cowboy" who has reached over 100 career final tables across more than two decades.
FAQ about Kenna James
What is Kenna James's nickname?
"Cowboy."
What is Kenna James's biggest career cash?
A runner-up finish in the 2006 PartyPoker Million Cruise for $700,000.
How much has Kenna James won playing poker?
Kenna James has won $3,500,000+ in live tournament earnings.
How many WSOP bracelets does Kenna James have?
Kenna James has not won a WSOP bracelet yet.