Early Life & Career:
* Real Name: Christopher Nicholas Sarantakos
* Born: December 19, 1967, in Hempstead, New York.
* Early Career: Started performing magic at the age of seven.
* First Major Break: Gained national attention on "America's Got Talent" in 2005.
* Las Vegas: Launched his long-running show "Criss Angel Mindfreak" in 2005 at the Luxor Hotel & Casino.
Magic & Illusions:
* Known for: Blending magic with rock music, special effects, and a dark and edgy persona.
* Signature Illusions: "Levitation," "Vanishing," "Teleportation," "Sword Through a Woman"
* Controversy: Known for pushing the boundaries of magic with stunts that appear dangerous and controversial.
* Influence: Credited for inspiring a new generation of magicians and bringing magic back into the mainstream.
Other Ventures:
* Music: Released several albums under the stage name "Criss Angel."
* Film: Appeared in several films, including "The Last Airbender" and "Scary Movie 5."
* Television: Hosted several television shows, including "Criss Angel Mindfreak" and "Criss Angel's BeLIEve."
* Brand: Developed a line of magic products and apparel.
Personal Life:
* Marriage: Married to Holly Madison from 2013 to 2014.
* Child: Has a son with former partner Sandra Gonzalez.
* Philanthropy: Actively involved in various charities, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Other Interesting Facts:
* He holds several world records, including the longest underwater levitation.
* He has been recognized as one of the most influential magicians of all time.
* He is a practicing Buddhist and has been known to incorporate meditation into his act.
Overall: Criss Angel is a highly acclaimed magician who has redefined the art of magic with his unique blend of entertainment and illusion. He has captivated audiences worldwide with his daring stunts and charismatic personality, making him a true icon in the world of magic.