Criss Angel, a renowned magician, was born on December 19, 1967, in East Meadow, New York. Growing up, he developed a passion for music, playing the drums, and a fascination with magic.
Influenced by the likes of Harry Houdini and Richiardi Jr., Criss's father, who battled cancer until his passing in 1998, also played a significant role in shaping his interest in magic. As a teenager, Criss began performing at birthday parties, nightclubs, and private events, showcasing his skills as a magician.
At the age of 18, he obtained his pyrotechnics license, which would later become a crucial element in his illusions. Criss also holds a 7th-degree black belt and has a background in dance and gymnastics, demonstrating his versatility and athleticism.
Criss was part of a band called "AngelDust" with friend Klay Scott, who produced and arranged his music for his Mindfreak show. He performed in "World Of Illusion" at Madison Square Garden in 1998 and later scored a show on Broadway, titled "Mindfreak," which ran for almost 600 performances until January 6, 2003.
Throughout his career, Criss has made numerous television appearances and specials, including "The Science of Magic" (1997),"The Science of Magic II" (2003),the ABC Family special "Criss Angel Mindfreak" (2002),and the Sci-Fi channel's "Criss Angel Supernatural"200 (3).
He gained widespread recognition with his A&E channel television series "Criss Angel Mindfreak" (2005),airing every Wednesday night. Seasons 1 and 2 were filmed at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, with season 3 filmed at the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas.
Criss Angel is the only magician to have won the Merlin Magician of the Year award twice, in 2001 and 2004. He holds several world records, including the longest time submerged underwater (24 hours),the longest body suspension (5 hours, 42 minutes),the fastest time to perform the "Metamorphosis" illusion (under a second),and the fastest straight-jacket escape (2 minutes and 30 seconds).
One of his favorite musicians is Korn, and he has become close friends with Jonathan Davis, who has appeared on his television series.
