Criss Angel, the world-renowned illusionist, magician, and musician, has built a reputation as one of the most successful magicians in history. With an estimated net worth of $50 million as of 2024, Angel has cemented his legacy through television, live performances, and groundbreaking illusions that have captivated audiences worldwide. From his widely popular television show Criss Angel Mindfreak to his record-setting stage performances in Las Vegas, Angel has transformed the art of magic into a global phenomenon.
Early Life and Passion for Magic
Born Christopher Nicholas Sarantakos on December 19, 1967, in Hempstead, New York, Criss Angel was raised in Elmont and East Meadow. He was introduced to magic at the age of seven when his aunt Stella taught him a simple card trick. This moment ignited his passion for illusion, and by the time he was 12, Angel was already performing magic shows for local audiences. As a teenager, he honed his skills by entertaining diners at local restaurants and amazed his family by making his mother levitate in their living room.
Although his parents hoped he would attend college, Angel chose to pursue a career in magic immediately after graduating from East Meadow High School. His dedication to the craft led him to tour with other performers, perfecting his illusions and building a name in the magic community.
Rise to Fame: Criss Angel Mindfreak and Las Vegas Residency
Criss Angel made his television debut in 1994 on the ABC special Secrets, and his big break came in 2005 with Criss Angel Mindfreak on A&E. The show, which ran for six seasons and 85 episodes, became one of the most successful magic programs in history, earning Angel worldwide recognition. It showcased daring stunts, such as walking on water, levitating, and escaping from dangerous situations, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible.
Angel took his success to the Las Vegas stage with Criss Angel Believe, a collaboration with Cirque du Soleil that ran at the Luxor Hotel and Casino from 2008 to 2016. Selling over $5 million in advance tickets, the show solidified Angel’s status as one of the highest-grossing magicians in the world. Following its success, he launched Mindfreak LIVE! at the Luxor in 2016, which ran until 2018, and later debuted Criss Angel MINDFREAK at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in December 2018.
Other Television Appearances and Achievements
Beyond his own shows, Criss Angel has made guest appearances on popular television programs, including CSI: NY, The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, WWE RAW, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and Larry King Live. In 2013, he starred in Criss Angel BeLIEve on Spike TV, further expanding his television presence.
Angel’s impact on the magic industry has been recognized with numerous awards. He was named “Magician of the Century” by the International Magicians Society in 2010, following his previous titles as “Magician of the Year” multiple times. In 2017, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying his contributions to the entertainment world.
Music Career and Other Ventures
In addition to magic, Criss Angel has ventured into music. In 1989, he was the frontman of a heavy metal band called Angel, incorporating magic into their performances. He later formed Angeldust with Klay Scott, releasing multiple studio albums, including System 1, System 2, and System 3.
Angel also launched the Criss Angel Magic Collection in collaboration with IdeaVillage, featuring magic kits and instructional tricks. His influence in the digital world has been remarkable, with his magic videos amassing over 200 million views online. One of his most famous clips, “Rip Bodies Apart” from BeLIEve, received 12 million views within a month of its release.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Criss Angel’s personal life has often been in the public eye. He was married to JoAnn Winkhart from 2002 to 2006 before dating reality star Holly Madison from 2008 to 2009. In 2012, Angel began a relationship with singer Shaunyl Benson, with whom he shares two sons, Johnny and Xristos.
Angel’s personal life took a heartbreaking turn when his son Johnny was diagnosed with leukemia before the age of two. Although Johnny went into remission, the cancer returned in 2019. As a result, Angel has been a passionate advocate for pediatric cancer awareness. He rebranded his nonprofit organization Believe Anything Is Possible to the Johnny Crisstopher Children’s Charitable Foundation, dedicated to raising funds for childhood cancer research and treatment.
In recognition of his philanthropic work, Angel received the Chris Greicius Celebrity Award from the Make-A-Wish Foundation in 2007 and was named the organization’s most supportive celebrity in 2010.
Awards and World Records
Criss Angel has broken multiple world records with his daring illusions. Some of his most notable achievements include:
- Longest Submersion Underwater: Angel submerged himself for 24 hours, setting a record for endurance.
- Fastest “Metamorphosis” Illusion: He performed the classic illusion in under one second.
- Straightjacket Escape Record: Angel escaped from a straightjacket in just two and a half minutes.
- Largest Vanishing Act: In May 2010, Angel made 100 audience members disappear simultaneously during a performance of Criss Angel Mindfreak at the Luxor.
Criss Angel’s Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2024, Criss Angel has an estimated net worth of $50 million, accumulated through:
- Television Shows: Revenue from Criss Angel Mindfreak and other TV appearances.
- Las Vegas Residencies: Highly profitable stage shows at the Luxor and Planet Hollywood.
- Merchandise and Magic Kits: Sales from the Criss Angel Magic Collection.
- Music Career: Earnings from albums and performances with Angeldust.
- Endorsements and Online Content: His digital success and YouTube monetization.
The Future of Criss Angel
Despite decades of groundbreaking magic, Criss Angel continues to push boundaries in illusion and entertainment. His MINDFREAK residency at Planet Hollywood remains one of the top-rated shows in Las Vegas, and he continues to innovate in the world of magic. With a legacy built on daring stunts, mesmerizing illusions, and philanthropic efforts, Angel’s influence in the entertainment industry shows no signs of slowing down.
As he moves forward, fans can expect even more jaw-dropping illusions, charitable work, and possibly new ventures in television and digital media. Criss Angel remains a master of his craft, a magician whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
