poker after darkIt has been rumored that any poker player that is sponsored by PokerStars is no longer allowed to participate on the popular NBC’s Poker After Dark poker television show. This includes fan favourite players of Daniel Negreanu, Barry Greenstein, Joe Hachem, Vanessa Rousso and many more.

The reason for this is because PokerStars main competitor, Full Tilt Poker underwrites the production of the poker show and markets itself more directly when the show is broadcasted internationally. This is not noticeably in the North American version of the show. However, international markets see a much more branded version of Poker After Dark.

At this point this is only a rumor and we are expecting a confirmation from PokerStars.com. We will keep our news readers updated with any new information.

Poker After Dark made its debut on NBC on January 1st, 2007 with the first two seasons being hosted by poker babe Shana Hiatt. The program consists of a five day show capturing an entire six handed sit and go tournament, followed by a sixth day directors cut that recaps the entire show with interviewing the players.

What makes this show more appealing is that there is very little editing and the only voice over is from Full Tilt Poker player Ali Nejad. Poker After Dark has increased its rating by offering different formats of Texas Hold’em, including everyone’s favourite, $200/$400 No Limit Texas Hold’em 6-max cash game.