Aliwood

Think of a version of the real life “Van Wilder” and you have found Oliver “Ali” Nejad, who is anything but ordinary. In fact, at only 30, this rising star has accomplished more than most people could in a lifetime. With a broad and rich knowledge of everything from cars, computers, and hi-tech gadgetry; to dating, collegiate culture, and sports; to music, movies, and poker, Nejad is the ultimate envelope pushing “man’s man.”Recognized for his success in the poker world, Nejad has made a career out of more than just the gamble of a good hand. Whether as a high stakes player, writer for both magazines and television, or as an MC/Host on some of TV’s best poker shows and local news shows, Oliver has made quite a lucrative life for himself -- and not just by the luck of the draw. Nejad’s talent and personality radiate off the TV screen, making him one of today’s most interesting talents. At least that’s what TV execs are saying as they compete to sweep him up as the lead man on some of their hottest shows.It must have been in the cards for Nejad who was born and raised outside of Berkeley, California. There he grew up excelling at school and sports, all the while entertaining friends and family with his lighthearted and witty humor, but never considering a job in front of the camera. It wasn’t until high school, when his friends, recognizing his talent, pressured him to audition for a hosting position at a local youth magazine show. The outcome was as predicted; he snagged the role and unknowingly stumbled onto something bigger. Television and Nejad were an instant, natural fit.After graduating from high school in 1996, Nejad enrolled at UC Berkeley and continued moving forward with his television career. While there he hosted two shows on the local NBC affiliate: First Cut and Hypertek further whetting his appetite for television.However, to the surprise of many, Nejad walked away from television and school in 1998 to try his luck on the felt of local card tables. Taking the challenge head on, he immersed himself in the endeavor and quickly went from recreational player, to semi-professional, to dealer, and then to hired house player. Four years later and Nejad was a professional poker player, but not ready to close the television chapter of his life. In 2002, Nejad made his return to TV as host of an MTV pilot and although the show wasn’t picked up, he rediscovered his passion for television. Before long he earned a regular segment producer and web reporter position for the video games based E3insider.com.Though Oliver hosted First Cut, he also wrote and produced many of the show’s segments, one of which even earned Emmy consideration. With his broad knowledge of sports and pop culture, Nejad has had the pleasure of interviewing such celebrities as Chris Farley, Christi Turlington, David Spade, surfer Kelly Slater, BMX athlete Matt Hoffman, and a host of other athletes, musicians, and actors. Nejad was also the last person to interview surfer Mark Foo before he passed away from a surfing accident at Mavericks in Northern California. The multi-talented Nejad has also been coined “The King of Poker Commentary,” having hosted or served as the play by play man and color commentator on a variety of shows including: FSN’s Poker Superstars II, NBC’s National Heads-up Poker Championship, the internationally seen Ultimate Poker Challenge, NBC’s Poker After Dark (on in 13 countries), and ESPN’s Pro-Am Poker Equalizer. Ali even delivered the first ever live coverage of the World Series of Poker main event final table alongside Phil Gordon for ESPN pay per view. In addition, Nejad recently joined Joe Sebok and Gavin Smith as the newest host of Poker Road Radio, available online and via podcast, and soon to come to Sirius satellite radio. When he isn’t hosting Nejad continues to play live and online as a member of team Full Tilt Poker anytime he gets the chance, helping him keep a finger on the pulse of the game.With interests in spades, it is clear that Nejad’s horizons expand far beyond poker. Finding the fun in any situation, he is the type of person people flock to when looking to have a good time. Known for throwing the best parties and staging the most irreverent stunts, Nejad’s days as a fraternity man lend to his light hearted demeanor, and easy going attitude. A legend in his own time, he is genuinely at home in virtually any environment discussing virtually any topic…on air, or off.