The Amazing Kreskin, Legendary Mentalist and Entertainer, Passes Away at 89

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George Joseph Kresge Jr., better known as The Amazing Kreskin, at the age of 89. Kreskin, a mesmerizing entertainer and mentalist, captivated audiences for decades with his mind-bending tricks and illusions.

Kreskin, who called Caldwell, New Jersey, home for much of his life, passed away at his residence on Tuesday. His friend and former road manager, Ryan Galway, confirmed the news to media outlets, although no further details were provided.

Inspired by the comic book character Mandrake the Magician, Kreskin rose to fame in the 1960s and became a staple on television screens across the country. His appearances on popular talk shows hosted by the likes of Merv Griffin, Johnny Carson, and Jimmy Fallon endeared him to audiences of all ages.

Known for his uncanny ability to read minds and perform seemingly impossible feats, Kreskin’s favorite tricks included correctly guessing a playing card chosen at random and determining the location of his paycheck hidden among the audience. He also authored several books, including “Secrets of the Amazing Kreskin” and “Mental Power Is Real,” and hosted his own show in the 1970s.

While Kreskin’s illusions brought joy and wonder to many, not everyone was amused by his antics. In 2002, he made a controversial prediction that a UFO would appear over Las Vegas on a specific date, offering to donate $50,000 to charity if proven wrong. When the prediction failed to materialize, Kreskin admitted it was a hoax meant to highlight how easily people can be manipulated in the wake of tragic events like the September 11 attacks. His admission drew criticism from radio personality Art Bell, who banned him from his show.

The legacy of The Amazing Kreskin lives on through his groundbreaking contributions to the world of mentalism and entertainment. His unique talents and charismatic personality will be remembered by fans for years to come.