Jack Benny

"Jack Benny" is a poker term specifically referring to a hand consisting of 3-9, as a tribute to the famous comedian Jack Benny who often joked that he was perpetually 39 years old.

What is Jack Benny in Poker?

In poker, a variety of terms and slang are used to describe certain hands and situations. "Jack Benny" is one such term. A hand consisting of a three and a nine (3-9) is often referred to as "Jack Benny". This term is relevant across multiple poker variants, though in games like Omaha where players hold four hole cards, the Jack Benny hand will be just two of the four total hole cards in the hand.

The Significance of Jack Benny

Understanding the hand "Jack Benny" is crucial for all poker players. In terms of hand ranking, a Jack Benny is not considered a strong hand, but it can still win the pot if played strategically. This is in instances where, for example, you are in late position or have a significant stack advantage over your opponents. For instance, let's say that all players have folded and you're in the small blind with 40bbs and hold Jack Benny. Your opponent in the big blind has just four BBs. In this case, you should shove your Jack Benny hand as you will only be risking four big blinds and still have some fold equity - specifically in a tournament setting where ICM comes into play.

That being said, in most scenarios you can comfortably fold out Jack Benny. If it's suited, you have a little more equity to play the hand but it's still worth considering a fold.

Example of "Jack Benny"

Imagine a situation where you are dealt a Jack Benny. The flop comes out to be 2, 4, 5. With your Jack Benny, you now have a straight draw, which could turn into a strong hand if a six comes on the turn or river. However, there's always a possibility for an opponent to have a higher straight, a flush, or a full house if the turn and river cards are unfavorable.

• "I was dealt a Jack Benny and hoped for a six after the flop showed a 2, 4, and 5."
• "She played her Jack Benny cautiously, as it is not a strong starting hand."
• "Holding a Jack Benny, he decided to see the flop hoping for a straight draw."