7 of the richest magicians in the world – net worths, ranked: from Las Vegas stalwarts Penn & Teller to the legendary David Copperfield, and “clown” Hans Klok

From David Copperfield to David Blaine, and Lance Burton to Penn & Teller, we give you 7 of the wealthiest magicians and illusionists who astonish the world

They baffle audiences with their amazing tricks, creating alternate realities few people will ever figure out. Magicians and illusionists are always pushing the limits: whether it’s David Blaine risking his life with increasingly daring stunts, or the legendary Penn & Teller continuing to befuddle audiences 40-odd years after their debut, these performers have turned their talent into lucrative careers.

For any parent concerned that their child’s nerdy hobby is a waste of time, read on to discover how rich some of the world’s most famous magicians are at the time of writing. One of them is even a billionaire …

7. Hans Klok

Estimated net worth: US$25 million

as his assistant and being awarded the prestigious Silver Clown Award in 2014.

, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

6. David Blaine

Estimated net worth: US$40 million

5. Criss Angel

Estimated net worth: US$50 million

adding to his prestige. From books to merchandise, TV shows and podcasts, Angel has aggressively expanded his brand. His friendship with celebrities such as Donny Osmond and Debbie Gibson, which allows him to convince them to be part of his acts, has also added to his status, making him a Vegas must-see.

4. Lance Burton

Estimated net worth: US$100 million

, magician Lance Burton was the first American and youngest magician to win the Grand Prix from the Federation Internationale des Societes Magiques, in 1982. In his 30-year career he is believed to have performed more than 15,000 shows, mainly in Las Vegas and Monte Carlo. While he is now mainly retired, he continues to mentor young magicians.

2 and 3. Penn & Teller

Estimated net worth: US$400 million (combined)

. Their Las Vegas show at The Rio, which began in 2001, makes theirs the longest-running residency in Sin City.

1. David Copperfield

Estimated net worth: US$1 billion

, which has run since 2003, playing 15 times a week. The star also owns an archipelago of 11 islands in the Bahamas available for private rental; but you probably need Copperfield-like wealth to stay there.