Magicians

Harry Houdini was a Hungarian-American escape artist, illusionist, and stunt performer renowned for his daring escape acts. He achieved fame in the vaudeville circuit in the United States and later toured Europe as "Harry 'Handcuff' Houdini," where he challenged police forces with his escape stunts. Houdini's repertoire included escaping from handcuffs, chains, straitjackets underwater, and sealed containers. He was an outspoken critic of fake spiritualists, serving as president of the Society of American Magicians and advocating for professional standards in the industry. Additionally, Houdini made strides in aviation, notably becoming the first person to pilot a powered aircraft in Australia.

Siegfried Fischbacher and his partner Roy Horn created the legendary duo Siegfried & Roy, known for their mesmerizing shows with white lions and tigers. They gained fame in Las Vegas, headlining a show at The Mirage casino resort from 1990. Their combination of magic and entertainment wowed audiences globally. Their partnership ended in 2003 after Horn's injury during a performance, bringing their successful professional journey to a close.

David Blaine is a renowned American magician, mentalist, and endurance performer who rose to fame in 1997 through his debut television special, "David Blaine: Street Magic." He is known for his daring stunts, such as setting a world record for breath holding in 2008. Blaine has appeared in various television specials that highlight his distinctive style of magic and illusion, including "David Blaine: Real or Magic" (2013), "Beyond Magic" (2016), and "The Magic Way" (2020). In addition to his performances, he is the author of "Mysterious Stranger: A Book of Magic," a guide that offers instructions on performing magic tricks.

Aleister Crowley was a multifaceted figure known for his contributions as an English occultist, ceremonial magician, poet, philosopher, political theorist, novelist, mountaineer, and painter. He established the religion of Thelema in the early 20th century, declaring the beginning of the Æon of Horus. Throughout his career, Crowley was a prolific writer across various genres, including poetry, novels, and occult literature. He played a key role in co-founding the A∴A∴ and leading the British arm of the Ordo Templi Orientis to promote Thelema beliefs. Crowley also dedicated time to religious communes and furthering the teachings of Thelema until his passing.

David Copperfield, a celebrated American magician, is recognized for his captivating storytelling and mesmerizing illusion acts. Throughout his impressive 40-year career, he has achieved notable accolades such as 11 Guinness World Records, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a knighthood from the French government. Renowned for his spectacular illusions, Copperfield's performances have included making a Learjet vanish and walking through the Great Wall of China. With over 33 million tickets sold and exceeding $4 billion in gross earnings, he is widely regarded as the most commercially successful magician in history.

Teller, the renowned American magician, is famous for his role as one half of the comedy magic duo Penn & Teller. He is known for his distinctive performance style of silence during shows, using visual and physical cues to captivate audiences. Alongside collaborator Penn Jillette, Teller has garnered global recognition for their groundbreaking and intellectually stimulating magic and entertainment. Teller also holds the esteemed position of H.L. Mencken Fellow at the Cato Institute, underscoring his significant impact on the realm of magic and beyond.

Criss Angel is a well-known American magician and illusionist celebrated for his extraordinary performances and groundbreaking magic tricks. He has gained global recognition for his hit TV series like MINDFREAK and live shows in Las Vegas. Angel has set numerous world records and earned prestigious accolades, such as Magician of the Decade and Magician of the Century. In addition to his magical skills, he is also a talented musician and author, demonstrating his versatility and creativity across different entertainment mediums.

Penn Jillette is a versatile American entertainer who is best known for his collaboration with magician Teller in the renowned duo Penn & Teller. Throughout his career, which includes magic, acting, music, invention, hosting, and writing, Jillette has demonstrated his talents in various stage and television projects, such as Penn & Teller: Fool Us and Penn & Teller: Bullshit!. As the duo's engaging speaker, he captivates audiences with humor and wisdom. Jillette is also a successful author and a strong advocate for atheism, scientific skepticism, and free speech.

Shin Lim is a well-known magician celebrated for his remarkable card manipulation and sleight of hand abilities. He became famous for his intricate close-up card magic shows set to music. Lim taught himself magic through online videos and made the switch from being a pianist after being diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. His exceptional skills have earned him victories in prestigious competitions and brought him widespread popularity through appearances on television programs such as Penn & Teller: Fool Us and America's Got Talent.

Uri Geller is a well-known illusionist, magician, and television personality from Israel and Britain. He is famous for his performances involving spoon bending and other illusions that mimic psychokinetic and telepathic effects using tricks of conjuring. Over the course of his career spanning more than four decades, he has made appearances on television programs in various countries. Despite his widespread fame, some magicians have criticized Geller as a fraud because of his assertions of having psychic abilities.

James Randi was a prominent stage magician, author, and scientific skeptic recognized for his efforts in challenging paranormal and pseudoscientific assertions. He co-established the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and the James Randi Educational Foundation. Initially a magician, Randi shifted his focus to scrutinizing paranormal claims, eventually retiring from magic at 60 and his foundation at 87. Known for his investigative approach rather than mere debunking, Randi wrote extensively on paranormal phenomena and skepticism. He notably exposed frauds such as Peter Popoff and initiated the One Million Dollar Paranormal Challenge.

Paul Daniels, the renowned English magician and television presenter, achieved international acclaim with his show "The Paul Daniels Magic Show" on the BBC from 1979 to 1994. He was famous for his catchphrase "You'll like this... not a lot, but you'll like it!" and received the esteemed "Magician of the Year" Award from the Academy of Magical Arts in 1982. Additionally, he won the Golden Rose of Montreux in 1985 and held the title of Member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star. Daniels was a significant figure in motivating numerous magicians to pursue a career in magic.

Val Valentino, known as the Masked Magician, is a well-known American magician who gained fame through the TV series Breaking the Magician's Code: Magic's Biggest Secrets Finally Revealed on the Fox network. Portraying the Masked Magician, he revealed the secrets behind classic magic tricks, causing both notoriety and controversy in the magic community. His appearances as Mister M on Rede Globo's Fantástico in Brazil further established his reputation as a talented illusionist who captivates audiences with his revealing yet captivating performances.

Ricky Jay was a celebrated American stage magician, actor, and writer renowned for his extraordinary sleight of hand abilities. He was widely regarded as the most talented sleight of hand artist of his time, excelling in card tricks, card throwing, memory feats, and captivating stage performances. In addition to his magical skills, Jay was a prolific author on the subject of magic and its history. He also enjoyed a successful acting career, appearing in notable films such as The Prestige, Boogie Nights, and Magnolia, as well as the HBO series Deadwood. His achievements were recognized in 2015 when he was featured in a PBS American Masters episode, making him the first magician to be profiled in the series.

The Amazing Johnathan was a renowned American comedian and magician recognized for his one-of-a-kind and thrilling performances. His shows featured a mix of interactive comedy, unconventional magic acts, and shocking elements that earned him the nickname "Freddy Krueger of Comedy." He headlined in Las Vegas from 2001 to 2014, captivating crowds with his dark humor and daring illusions. Additionally, he teamed up with magician Criss Angel for various magic shows, displaying his exceptional talent and innovation in the entertainment field.

Steve Valentine is a versatile Scottish actor and magician known for his talents in the entertainment industry. He is recognized for his portrayal of Nigel Townsend in NBC's crime drama series Crossing Jordan. He has also showcased his skills through voice work as Harry Flynn in the video game Uncharted 2: Among Thieves and as Alistair in the Dragon Age video game franchise. Valentine excels in bringing characters to life on screen and in the virtual world, captivating audiences with his performances.

Justin Willman is an accomplished American magician, comedian, producer, and television personality recognized for his work on the Netflix series Magic for Humans. He has made appearances on well-known TV programs such as The Tonight Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and Conan. Willman premiered his comedy/magic special Sleight of Mouth on Comedy Central in 2015 and hosts shows on the Food Network, Disney Channel, and The Magic Prank Show on Netflix. He is situated in Los Angeles.

Chung Ling Soo was an American magician famous for his stage character as a Chinese individual named Chung Ling Soo. He became well-known for incorporating yellowface in his acts, depicting himself as a Chinese person who spoke limited English. Chung Ling Soo was recognized for his magical performances, notably the bullet catch trick, which unfortunately led to his accidental death. Despite debates over cultural appropriation and misrepresentation, Chung Ling Soo is still a prominent figure in the realms of magic and performance.

Doug Henning was a famous Canadian magician, illusionist, escape artist, and politician. He achieved global recognition for his pioneering performances that redefined the art of magic in the 1970s. Henning's TV specials, including "The Magic Show" on Broadway, introduced magic to wider audiences and influenced aspiring magicians. His inventive illusions and captivating stage persona enthralled crowds around the world. Henning also delved into politics, campaigning for office and supporting the arts. His legacy in magic and entertainment continues to shape the industry today.

Alessandro Cagliostro was an Italian occultist and self-styled magician known for his association with royal courts in Europe. He practiced various occult arts, including psychic healing, alchemy, and scrying. His reputation deteriorated posthumously, with many regarding him as a charlatan and impostor. Criticisms like Thomas Carlyle's "Quack of Quacks" further tarnished his image. However, some later works attempted to rehabilitate Cagliostro's legacy by portraying him as a master of magic.

Ed Alonzo is a versatile entertainer acclaimed for his roles as a comedian, actor, and professional magician. Over the years, he has mesmerized audiences with his distinctive fusion of humor and magic. Alonzo's talents have been on display across different mediums, such as television programs and live shows. Through his captivating acts, he has cemented his position as a standout personality in the entertainment field, garnering praise for his creativity, expertise, and capacity to delight viewers of all demographics.

Kreskin, also known as The Amazing Kreskin, is an American mentalist renowned for his television appearances in the 1970s. Inspired by Lee Falk's comic strip Mandrake the Magician, Kreskin built his career as an entertainer rather than a psychic, with a focus on suggestion rather than the paranormal. Throughout his professional journey, he has maintained a unique persona, highlighting his role as an entertainer captivating audiences with his mentalist abilities, without making claims of possessing supernatural powers.

Misty Lee is a talented American voice actress, comedian, and magician known for her captivating performances. With a career spanning various entertainment mediums, she has showcased her versatility and skill in bringing characters to life through her voice acting work. As a comedian, Misty delights audiences with her humor and wit, while her expertise in magic mesmerizes and amazes spectators. Her professional journey is a testament to her passion for entertaining and her ability to excel in diverse creative fields.

Collins Key is a well-known American YouTuber, entertainer, and magician who has amassed a large online audience. As of March 2024, he has nearly 24 million subscribers and over 6.7 billion total lifetime views on his channel. Key initially gained fame as a magician on America's Got Talent and has gone on to tour with Demi Lovato. He has collaborated on successful campaigns for AT&T, receiving multiple awards and nominations for his work, including recognition at the Teen Choice Awards.

Carl Ballantine was an American magician, comedian, and actor recognized for his vaudeville-style comedy routines incorporating transparent or bumbling stage magic tricks. Using aliases such as "The Great Ballantine" or "The Amazing Ballantine," he amused audiences with his comedic acts that frequently veered off course in a humorous manner. By combining comedy and magic, Ballantine pioneered the genre of comedy magic, leaving a lasting impression on comedians and magicians alike and inspiring future generations of performers.

The Wizard of New Zealand, Ian Brackenbury Channell, is a versatile individual with a broad professional background. He has excelled as an educator, inspiring others with his teaching skills. Known for his comedic talents, he entertains audiences with laughter. His expertise as an illusionist has captivated and delighted many with his magical performances. In the realm of politics, he demonstrates a strong dedication to making a positive impact on the community with his distinctive perspective and approach.

Banachek is an accomplished English mentalist, magician, and "thought reader" known for his involvement in James Randi's Project Alpha experiment, where he exposed flaws in parapsychology research. He currently serves as the director of the One Million Dollar Paranormal Challenge by the James Randi Educational Foundation (JREF), where he has tested and debunked numerous self-proclaimed psychics claiming paranormal abilities. Banachek is also a fellow of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and holds the position of President at the James Randi Educational Foundation, actively advocating for skepticism and critical thinking in the field.

Brian Brushwood is a versatile American entertainer known for his work as a magician, podcaster, author, lecturer, YouTuber, and comedian. He gained recognition through his series Scam Nation (formerly Scam School), where he shares entertaining tricks for viewers to use at bars. Brushwood co-hosts several podcasts, including Weird Things, Cordkillers, and Great Night. He also performs Bizarre Magic stage shows nationwide, authored six books, and co-hosted The Modern Rogue on YouTube. His appearances on popular TV shows like The Tonight Show and CNN have further solidified his presence in the entertainment industry.

Lance Burton, a renowned American stage magician, mesmerized over 5,000,000 audience members in Las Vegas through more than 15,000 shows. Retiring in 2010 after a successful career spanning several decades, Burton now serves as a judge on Criss Angel's Magic with the Stars, sharing his expertise and experience. His lasting legacy in the magic industry continues to impact and inspire magicians worldwide.

Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin was a French watchmaker who became a renowned magician and illusionist, known for revolutionizing the world of magic. Credited with elevating magic from a simple pastime to a refined form of entertainment, he introduced innovative performances and theatrical presentations that set the stage for modern magic shows. His legacy lives on in the tradition of magicians performing in formal attire, a nod to the elegance and sophistication he brought to the world of magic.

Dai Vernon, also known as The Professor, was a highly respected Canadian magician renowned for his exceptional sleight of hand techniques, particularly in card tricks and close-up magic. His expertise and talents made him a mentor to numerous fellow magicians. Starting in 1963, he resided and worked at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, California, a distinguished venue for magicians. Vernon concluded his performing career in 1990 at the age of 96, leaving a lasting legacy in the magic community.

Persi Diaconis is a prominent American mathematician known for his research on randomness and randomization in various mathematical contexts such as coin flipping and shuffling playing cards. He holds the Mary V. Sunseri Professorship at Stanford University and has made substantial contributions to the study of probability theory. Diaconis is highly respected for his rigorous mathematical techniques in analyzing chance processes, establishing himself as a distinguished figure in the field of mathematics.

David Nixon was a well-known English magician and television personality celebrated for his captivating performances. He gained fame as one of the most prominent magicians in the UK. Nixon's mastery of magic and engaging charm endeared him to audiences in the entertainment industry. His television shows highlighted his talent and charisma, attracting a dedicated fan base. Through his magical abilities and captivating persona, David Nixon made a lasting impression on the realms of magic and television entertainment.

Cyril Takayama is an American magician known for his captivating magic performances, particularly in Japan. Over the course of his career, spanning decades, he has become a prominent figure in the world of magic. Takayama has gained a large following thanks to his innovative illusions and unique style, which combines traditional magic techniques with modern technology. He is recognized as one of the most influential magicians of his time.

Howard Thurston, a stage magician from Columbus, Ohio, gained fame for his remarkable magic performances. Inspired by magician Alexander Herrmann, Thurston dedicated himself to becoming the most renowned magician of his time. His traveling magic show, requiring eight train cars for transportation, was the biggest of its kind. Thurston's commitment to his art and his talent for enchanting audiences with his illusions established him as a master magician in his era.

Harry Blackstone Jr. was a celebrated American stage magician, author, and television performer who captivated audiences with his astonishing magic tricks and illusions. His signature act included producing numerous rabbits from his sleeves and hats, estimated to be around 80,000 rabbits. Through his television performances, he showcased his talents to a broad audience, demonstrating his mastery of magic and his captivating ability to entertain and mystify viewers globally.

P.C. Sorcar was a renowned Indian magician famous for captivating audiences worldwide with his Indrajal show during the 1950s and 1960s. He is celebrated as the "Father of Modern Indian Magic" and has left a lasting legacy in the magic community. Sorcar passed away at the age of 57 due to a heart attack while performing in Japan. His magical tradition is continued by his son, P.C. Sorcar Jr.

Bob McAllister was an American television personality celebrated for his talents as a magician, children's entertainer, and host of Wonderama. With his captivating personality and magical performances, he enchanted audiences throughout his career. As the host of Wonderama, McAllister demonstrated his knack for connecting with young viewers and fostering a lively and entertaining atmosphere for children. His lasting contributions to children's entertainment solidified his status as a beloved figure in television history.

Harry Kellar, renowned as the "Dean of American Magicians," was an American magician celebrated for his grand stage performances during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He trained under Robert Heller and Isaiah Hughes and preceded Harry Houdini in the world of magic. One of his remarkable acts included the levitation of Princess Karnac, influenced by John Nevil Maskelyne. Kellar collaborated with the Martinka Magic Company for the creation of various illusions and sets, including the iconic "Blue Room."

Ali Bongo, also known as the "Shriek of Araby," was an English comedy magician who made significant contributions to the world of magic. As a former president of The Magic Circle, he captivated audiences with his innovative illusions and comedic timing. His legacy in the magic community endures through his influential work and commitment to the art of magic, leaving a lasting impact worldwide.

Hans Klok is a world-famous Dutch magician and illusionist recognized for his captivating performances across the globe. Over the course of his extensive career, he has become a master of grand illusions and magical spectacles. Klok enchants audiences with his mesmerizing shows, blending expert sleight of hand with elaborate stage setups. His creative magic techniques and engaging stage persona have cemented his status as a highly skilled and accomplished illusionist in the field.

John Nevil Maskelyne, an English stage magician and inventor, is famous for inventing the pay toilet and other Victorian-era devices. He worked with magicians George Alfred Cooke and David Devant and his illusions are still performed today. Maskelyne's book, "Sharps and Flats," reveals cheating practices in games of chance and skill. In 1914, he founded the Occult Committee to investigate claims of supernatural powers and expose fraud in the field of magic.

The Great Blackstone, a famous magician and illusionist of the 20th century, gained immense popularity for his captivating performances. Starting his magical career in his teens, he became renowned for his mastery of illusions. During World War II, he entertained audiences as a USO performer, captivating crowds with his magical talents. Assisted by his younger brother, who served as his stage manager, Blackstone mesmerized audiences and became a legendary figure in the world of magic.

Magnus Krepper is a versatile Swedish artist known for his talents in acting, dancing, singing, and magic. He is a member of Moderna Illusionisters Cirkel, showcasing his skills in illusions. In 2006, Krepper was recognized for his outstanding performance in the film Mun mot mun, earning him the prestigious Guldbagge Award for best male role. With a diverse range of artistic abilities and a notable award under his belt, Krepper has established himself as a respected and accomplished figure in the entertainment industry.

David Acer is a versatile Canadian professional with a diverse career in entertainment. He is an accomplished author, stand-up comedian, close-up illusionist, and inventor of magic tricks. Acer gained recognition as a co-host and writer for the TV series Mystery Hunters, earning award nominations for his writing. He has authored best-selling books and appeared on various Canadian and international television shows showcasing his talents in comedy, magic, and writing. Acer has also lectured worldwide on magic, authored multiple books on the subject, and performed at prestigious events such as The Magic Castle and FISM.

John Henry Anderson, a Scottish professional magician, transformed the art of magic by shifting performances from the streets to theatres. Renowned for his mesmerizing magic shows, Anderson enchanted audiences with his skill and flair, popularizing magic as a form of entertainment in theatres. His groundbreaking methods and captivating performances elevated magic into a theatrical spectacle, leaving a lasting influence on the world of magic and inspiring magicians globally.

Johann Nepomuk Hofzinser, known as "Dr. Hofzinser," was an Austrian-Hungarian magician and illusionist renowned for his innovative creations in automata and card manipulation techniques. Following his retirement in 1865, he further developed his stage persona and continued to captivate audiences with his magical performances. Hofzinser's pioneering contributions to the art of magic have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in its history.

Luis de Matos is a renowned Portuguese magician known for his exceptional skills and captivating performances. He has earned the title of "the best known illusionist in Portugal" and has achieved significant recognition in the magic industry. Notably, he was the co-winner of the prestigious "Golden Grolla" award in 2013, alongside other esteemed magicians. A testament to his talent, Luis holds the distinction of being the youngest magician ever to receive "The Devant Award" from The Magic Circle. His professional trajectory reflects a dedication to his craft and a commitment to excellence.

Robert Heller, an English magician, mentalist, and musician, started his career as a musician at the Royal Academy of Music. Intrigued by magic from a young age, he eventually became a professional magician and gained recognition as both a magician and concert pianist. His performances took him to various countries such as the United States, Great Britain, Europe, and Asia. Heller's successful tours influenced other magicians to alter their names to prevent comparisons. After retiring from magic, he dedicated his later years to performing and teaching piano.

Joseph Pinetti, also known as Chevalier Joseph Pinetti, was a celebrated magician in the late 18th century. He was renowned as The Professor of Natural Magic and was famous for his flamboyant performances. Pinetti was a pioneer in the field of magic, being the first magician to incorporate advertising for theater shows. Throughout his professional career, he delivered innovative performances that garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as the most celebrated magician of his time. His legacy as a magician remains revered and cherished in the realm of magic entertainment.

Jewel Aich is a highly esteemed Bangladeshi magician and bansuri player known for his exceptional career, which includes his participation as a veteran in the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war. His mastery of magic and the bansuri flute has mesmerized audiences in Bangladesh and around the world. Aich's performances highlight his artistic talent and unwavering dedication to his craft, establishing him as a revered figure in the entertainment field. His significant contributions to the realms of magic and music have solidified his prominent status in Bangladeshi culture.

Roy Horn, a German actor and illusionist, was part of the renowned duo "Siegfried & Roy" in Las Vegas. Alongside Siegfried Fischbacher, they mesmerized audiences with elaborate costumes and performances featuring tigers, elephants, and snakes. Their debut in Las Vegas in the late 1960s solidified their status as one of the top acts in the entertainment industry. Despite a dangerous incident involving a tiger during a show in 2003, Horn continued to display his extraordinary talents until his passing in 2020.

Stevie Starr, also known as the "Professional Regurgitator," is a Scottish performance artist specializing in regurgitation acts. His unique performances involve swallowing and regurgitating a wide range of items such as coins, lightbulbs, balloons, nails, billiard balls, dry sugar, lighter fluid, and even live goldfish. Starr's astonishing feats include regurgitating a "solved" Rubik's cube, sparking speculation about his possible illusionist abilities. With a busy international touring schedule, he continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his incredible talents.