Thursday, May 18, 2006

Riviera Holdings Corporation announced today that Ronald P. Johnson,
Executive Vice President of Gaming Operations of Riviera Operating
Corporation and President of Riviera Black Hawk, Inc., has resigned for
personal reasons effective May 16, 2006. The Company also announced that
Chief Executive Officer William L. Westerman has been appointed to Mr.
Johnson's position as President of Riviera Black Hawk, Inc. effective May
16, 2006. Mr. Westerman said, "We appreciate Ron's 15 years of dedication
and service to the Company, especially his contribution to the development
of our successful Black Hawk Casino, and wish him well on his future
endeavors."

About Riviera Holdings Corporation

Riviera Holdings Corporation owns and operates the Riviera Hotel and Casino
on the Las Vegas Strip and the Riviera Black Hawk Casino in Black Hawk,
Colorado. Riviera Holdings Corporation's stock is listed on the American
Stock Exchange ("AMEX") under the symbol RIV.