The long-time mascot for the now shuttered Irish-themed casino on the Strip, Lucky the Leprechaun (a.k.a. Brian Thomas) was described by one writer for the Las Vegas Weekly as "a lap-dancing, shot-pouring, photo-posing, shtick-performing Energizer Bunny," which about sums it up. He's 4'1" and, in his leprechaun days, sported a silky bright green suit.
Prior to the casino's closure on April 30, Thomas had been the iconic face of O'Sheas for seven years. Interviewed by the LV Sun the day prior, the observed that "It’s like one big family of 2 million people I’ve seen. I don’t know another place on the Strip that is like this. Maybe some people should take some notes." Clearly as saddened as the casino's beer pong-playing legion of loyal fans by the end of an era, Thomas remarked, "I’m going to miss this place. I wouldn’t be surprised if I dropped a tear at noon tomorrow."
However, we don't have to shed too many tears for Lucky, who signed on to work for Caesars Entertainment’s food and beverage department and has gigs lined up at the Flamingo pool, Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall and Saloon, and the Carnaval Court at Harrah’s, where he'll be keeping the party going in his inimitable style. As a company representative put it, he's "kind of as mascot, party-starter, liquor-squirter. Keeps things lively! At O'Sheas, he poured; now he uses a super-soaker to distribute the joy." So, keep an eye out for a a super-soaker-toting leprechaun this summer -- and keep your mouth open, too!
With the casino's cult status earning it something of a reprieve and the promise of a continued presence inside the Linq complex, perhaps Lucky the Leprechaun will even be reinstated in his old job somewhere down the line.
If you're nostalgic for a dose of Lucky, or are not familiar with Las Vegas' most famous leprechaun, then you can catch him in action on YouTube at the 2011 annual O'Shea's block party.
