The stunt involves a giant 12 foot high industrial fan that assistants rotate while Copperfield walks through the whirring blades. During this particular performance, an illusion technician named Brandon was pulled into the vortex of the moving blades. He reportedly suffered injuries to his arm and face.
Audience members were shocked as blood was flying and the curtain was closed to block their view. Many thought it was part of the act when Copperfield initially came out on stage and told the crowd that they might have to end the show. He went backstage again and returned several minutes later indicating the show was done and instructed the audience to request a full refund.
Clark County Fire Department was dispatched at 11:25 p.m. Spokesperson Scott Allison said they received a 911 call indicating that someone’s arm was stuck in a fan prop. When EMS arrived on the scene, the man’s arm had been freed but he was bleeding profusely.
Brandon was transported to University Medical Center where he underwent several hours of surgery on his severely damaged arm. Doctors inserted pins and bolts to repair multiple breaks. He also required stitches to his face for a large puncture wound.
Copperfield made the following statement afterward, ” Many people assume that the death-defying illusions I do on stage are not dangerous. This unfortunate accident shows that assumption couldn’t be further from the truth. We’re just thankful that Brandon’s injuries weren’t worse.”
Needless to say, this illusion is dangerous. Nothing like this should ever be tried by anyone. In October I successfully performed this illusion. This illusion was conceived by famed illusionist, Andre Kole, who I consider to be one of my mentors in magic and illusion. This illusion is being presented with his permission. Bill Smith of Magic Ventures in Las Vegas (who has constructed illusions for all sorts of major Las Vegas magic acts like David Copperfield and Lance Burton) built this amazing prop. Ken will attempt to pass his arm through the solid steel blades of this fan while it is spinning on high speed. It is an incredible illusion that you don’t want to miss!
