ROSELAND, NJ — The world-renowned mentalist known as The Amazing Kreskin has passed away at the age of 89, according to a statement on his social media. Best remembered for his numerous appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” Kreskin’s death was announced on Tuesday, noting that he passed away during the holiday season. Kreskin was famous for his extensive holiday decorations and elaborate Christmas parties where he would perform "Ave Maria."
In the statement, his team echoed the way he ended his shows, saying this was not a true goodbye but rather "To be continued." Ryan Galway, Kreskin’s manager, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter, stating that he died at his home in New Jersey on Tuesday. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Born George Kresge, The Amazing Kreskin gained fame in the 1960s and 1970s with numerous television appearances on shows like "The Mike Douglas Show," "The Merv Griffin Show," and his own syndicated program, "The Amazing World of Kreskin." His legacy was cemented with his 88 appearances on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," where he captivated audiences with his mentalist abilities.
Kreskin often claimed that Carson’s character, Carnac the Magnificent, was based on him, a clairvoyant who humorously predicted answers to questions inside sealed envelopes. There were also suggestions that Carson drew inspiration from a sketch by Steve Allen. Throughout his illustrious career, Kreskin performed worldwide, authored several books, provided mental training for boxers, and launched a dating website focused on those interested in the supernatural. Despite these ventures, Kreskin always maintained that his performances were purely those of a mentalist, not involving occult magic.
As the news of his passing spread, fans and colleagues alike remembered Kreskin not just for his impressive mentalist skills but also for his vibrant personality and dedication to his craft. His influence on the world of mentalism and entertainment remains significant, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of performers.
The statement from Kreskin’s social media concluded in his signature style, reminding fans that this was "To be continued," reflecting his enduring spirit and the lasting impact he made on the world of entertainment.
His passing marks the end of an era for fans who grew up watching his incredible feats on television. The world has lost a true showman whose talents transcended the ordinary, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. The Amazing Kreskin’s unique contribution to the world of mentalism and his memorable performances will remain etched in the annals of entertainment history.
