Can Former Fanduel Exec Save Hollywood Casino?

Over the past few months, the number of states in which Hollywood Casino has been operating has swelled to three (3). That includes Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, the nation's three (3) leading states in terms of generating iGaming revenue. Despite being in premium markets, the casino has struggled to keep up with the competition.

When things aren't working, changes need to be made. PENN Entertainment, owner/operator of Hollywood Casino recently made a big change by bringing in Billy Turchin, former SVP of Product at FanDuel. At Fanduel, he served to help create an iGaming platform that stands as one of the best in a highly competitive U.S. iGaming market. PENN management is hoping he can work his magic and bring the company's Hollywood Casino platform back to life.

Having also worked at ESPN BET, theScore, and theScore BET, he brings a wealth of knowledge regarding what moves the U.S. iGaming market. Regarding his new position at PENN Entertainment, Turchin had this to say in a press release:

"Along with cutting-edge digital products, PENN Entertainment features the largest and most diverse gaming footprint in North America, operating 43+ casino and racetrack properties under well-known brands including Hollywood, Ameristar, L’Auberge, M, and more. The expansive online and physical footprint allows PENN to deliver unparalleled omnichannel entertainment experiences." He then added that he was thrilled to get this new opportunity.

What Turchin Brings to PENN Entertainment

After a year stint as Chief Product Officer for Honeywell’s Connected Buildings, Turchin moved to Fanduel (September 2021 to April 2025) where he was charged with overseeing player account management to analytics and regulatory compliance within each state where Fanduel was licensed. This is a sure sign that PENN is betting big on its future in the digital gambling space.

Given the current state of PENN's digital product line, it's fair to say he faces a tall order. Unlike the full-service platform he was dealing with at Fanduel, this one is not quite as robust. His challenge will be to craft a bespoke solution that centers on the vast needs of PENN Entertainment's current market.

A Brand in Trouble

In recent months/years, PENN Entertainment has had more than its fair share of issues with the biggest concern centering around accusations of misappropriation of funds. This and year-over-year earnings shortfalls have led to downward pressure on the stock price as investors show concerns about the future of PENN's digital assets.

Other issues leading to concerns include the decision of key investor HG Vora Capital deciding to reduce its stake to 4.8% due to a seeming lack of product direction. It hasn't helped that ESPN Bet’s recent results have fallen short of expectations. If that ship isn't righted in the near future, it could lead to ESPN terminating its branding deal sometime in 2026.

Clearly, Turchin has a lot of work to do. However, what he was able to accomplish at Fanduel should give PENN's management and investors hope for the future.