Mike McDermott is a fictional character from the movie Rounders, which was released in 1998. He is portrayed by actor Matt Damon and is a talented poker player who struggles with balancing his passion for the game and his responsibilities in life. The film explores themes of risk, ambition, and the consequences of gambling. In Rounders, Mike is a law student who often finds himself drawn back into the world of high-stakes poker. He is determined to help his friend Lester "Worm" Murphy, played by Edward Norton, while also trying to stay out of trouble with dangerous players. The character's journey highlights the challenges of pursuing one's dreams while facing personal and external obstacles.