The Amazing Kreskin, a mentalist and beloved television personality, has passed away at 89. Known for his countless appearances on talk shows including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, Kreskin rose to fame in the 1960s and 70s, wowing audiences with his mentalist skills. His career spanned decades, and he became a household name, appearing on The Mike Douglas Show, The Merv Griffin Show, and even hosting his own program.
Kreskin’s ties to Johnny Carson were significant, as he performed on The Tonight Show 88 times. He also claimed Carson’s famous comedic character, Carnac the Magnificent, was inspired by his act, though others attribute the sketch to Steve Allen. Beyond entertainment, Kreskin trained boxers, wrote books, and even launched a dating site for those interested in the supernatural, all while maintaining he was a mentalist, not a magician.
His passing was confirmed by his manager, Ryan Galway, who noted that Kreskin died peacefully at his home in New Jersey. The cause of death was not disclosed. Known for his love of the holidays, Kreskin filled his home with Christmas decorations and trees, a sentiment reflected in his final public statement, ending with his signature phrase, “To be continued.”
Fans and colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering Kreskin for his groundbreaking work in entertainment and his ability to captivate audiences worldwide. His legacy as a pioneer in mentalism and showmanship will continue to inspire.
