Magic has always been a realm of wonder, where the impossible becomes reality and disbelief is suspended. In 2024, a new generation of illusionists challenges this timeless art, fusing tradition with modernity to captivate audiences worldwide. From daring stunts to intimate sleight-of-hand, these performers are the very future of magic itself.
Among them are Henry & Klauss, two Brazilian magicians who have risen to international acclaim. Alongside other global icons, they are proving that magic is more alive than ever.
Henry & Klauss: The Brazilian Duo Defying Gravity
Henry & Klauss have become integral to modern illusionism. Known for their audacious stunts and technological mastery, the duo has captivated over 2.5 million people worldwide. More than mere shows, their performances are spectacles that combine emotion, storytelling, and stunning visuals.
In 2019, they set a world record by levitating over São Paulo’s bustling Avenida Paulista for four hours. Four years later, they shattered another record in Monza, Italy, for the fastest escape from a straitjacket.
Their accolades include the prestigious Les Mandrake d’Or, often called the “Oscar” of magic. But what truly highlights their skill is their ability to modernize magic without losing its soul.
“Magic is about creating unforgettable moments,” Henry said in an interview. “It’s not just tricks—it’s about making people believe in the impossible.” With a Disney+ special, Masters of Magic, set to premiere in 2025, Henry & Klauss are ready to bring their unique kind of illusionism to an even larger audience.
Global Icons Shaping the Future of Magic
There are, of course, other names that have carved themselves in popular culture for their abilities in the field of magic and performance. David Copperfield remains a towering figure in the world of illusion. Known for his grand-scale illusions like making the Statue of Liberty disappear and walking through the Great Wall of China, Copperfield has spent decades redefining what magic can be. His residency at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas continues to draw crowds from around the globe, cementing his legacy as one of magic’s greatest showmen.
Derren Brown, the British mentalist and illusionist, has built his own popularity with psychological manipulation and mind-bending tricks. Combining suggestion, psychology, and sleight-of-hand, Brown’s performances are as cerebral as they are mesmerizing. His ability to influence and read minds has earned him much acclaim and a devoted following worldwide.
Shin Lim has elevated close-up magic with his elegant card manipulations and theatrical style. A two-time winner of America’s Got Talent, Lim turns card tricks into an art form that feels almost like dance. His performances are intimate yet grand, leaving audiences spellbound by his precision.
The Ehrlich Brothers from Germany have brought stadium-scale magic to Europe with their high-energy performances and dazzling illusions. Known for their youthful charisma and flashy stage presence, Chris and Andreas Ehrlich have sold out arenas across the continent. The two share a talent for making magic feel like a rock concert, which has made them icons of modern illusionism.
Rising Stars and Timeless Legends
Dynamo has taken street magic to new heights with his relatable persona and jaw-dropping tricks performed in everyday settings. From levitating above London’s Shard to walking across the River Thames, Dynamo’s stunts have made him a household name in contemporary magic.
In another entry, Penn & Teller continue to be a force in illusionism with their own novel blend of humor, skepticism, and mind-bending tricks. Their long-running Las Vegas show combines traditional sleight-of-hand with thought-provoking commentary on deception itself.
Not to be forgotten, Criss Angel remains one of the most daring magicians alive today. Known for his edgy aesthetic and death-defying stunts on Mindfreak, Angel has challenged the absolute limits of what audiences expect from a magician.
A mainstay of magic, David Blaine straddles the line between magician and endurance artist with feats that test human limits. From being buried alive for seven days to holding his breath underwater for over 17 minutes, Blaine’s performances are as much about physical endurance as they are about illusion.
And finally, Jack Rhodes is one of 2024’s breakout stars after wowing audiences on Britain’s Got Talent. His fresh take on classic illusions has earned him comparisons to some of magic’s greats while establishing him as a talent to watch in years to come.
The Magic Ahead
As audiences look toward 2025, these magicians represent the best of what magic can be and its limitless potential. Whether it’s Henry & Klauss bringing Brazilian flair to Disney+, David Copperfield continuing to amaze after decades at the top or rising stars like Jack Rhodes, one thing is clear: magic is thriving.
“Magic isn’t just entertainment,” Klauss once said. “It’s a way of reminding people that anything is possible.”
And with these ten performers leading the charge, it feels like nothing is out of reach—even making the masses believe in magic all over again.
