David Copperfield Magician and Illusionist
David Copperfield (born September 16, 1956) is an American magician, widely considered one of the greatest illusionists of all time, known for his innovative stage performances and television specials.
Born David Seth Kotkin in Metuchen, New Jersey, Copperfield showed an early passion for magic. By age 12, he was already performing professionally under the name "Davino the Boy Magician."
His career skyrocketed in the 1970s and 1980s with a series of groundbreaking television specials and live shows. Famous illusions include making the Statue of Liberty disappear, walking through the Great Wall of China, and levitating across the Grand Canyon.
Copperfield has received 21 Emmy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and is the most commercially successful magician in history, holding multiple world records for ticket sales and performances.
Date of Birth: September 16, 1956
Place of Birth: Metuchen, New Jersey, U.S.
Nationality: American
Known for: Groundbreaking Illusions, Television Specials, Record-Breaking Magic Shows
Career and Achievements
Copperfield revolutionized modern magic by blending storytelling, grand illusions, and cutting-edge stagecraft. His Las Vegas residency is one of the longest-running and most successful in history.
Legacy and Influence
Beyond entertainment, Copperfield has contributed to preserving magic history through his private museum and has inspired countless magicians worldwide. His influence extends across both stage magic and popular culture.
Ongoing Legacy
Still active today, Copperfield continues to perform and innovate, ensuring that his name remains synonymous with the art of illusion for generations to come.
Career & Major Achievements
| Year | Event / Work | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1974 | Magic debut on television | Television | National TV exposure. |
| 1977 | Escape from Alcatraz illusion | Stage illusion | Breakthrough stunt. |
| 1983 | The Magic of David Copperfield (TV specials) | Television | Annual CBS specials. |
| 1983 | Statue of Liberty disappearance | Stage illusion | Iconic illusion. |
| 1986 | Walk Through the Great Wall of China | Stage illusion | Global media event. |
| 1996 | Flying illusion perfected | Stage illusion | Signature levitation. |
| 1997 | Opened International Museum and Library of the Conjuring Arts | Institution | Magic preservation. |
| 2001 | Opened David Copperfield’s Magic Underground | Live show | Las Vegas residency. |
| 2007 | Most Emmy Awards for a magician | Television | Industry record. |
| 2016 | Named highest-paid magician (Forbes) | Business | Global earnings leader. |
| 2020 | Virtual magic performances | Digital performance | Pandemic adaptation. |
| 2023 | Continued Las Vegas residency | Live show | Long-running success. |
Awards & Honors
- 21 Emmy Awards — record for a solo performer.
- Knighthood of Arts and Letters (France).
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star.
- Named “Magician of the Century” by the Society of American Magicians.