Saddened to hear of the passing of Roy Horn from coronavirus complications yesterday at the age of 75.
Siegfried & Roy took the magic world by storm, from humble beginnings to their breathtaking vision and success of a modern grand illusion show spectacle, featuring tigers, elephants and dragons, ruling the Las Vegas Strip for decades and thus pioneering the city’s change from a notorious gamblers’ joint in the desert into a family-friendly fun park.
One of my oldest memories goes back to seeing, as a boy, their stunning PR shot of Roy floating through a hoop high above Siegfried’s head somewhere in the desert, in bright sunlight. No stage, no backdrop, no dim lighting. It was featured on the cover of a TV guide, and it left me speechless. I am grateful to have seen their show back in the 90s, when they were in their prime, and I will always cherish it as one of the top magic experiences of my life.
Roy had a magic way of connecting with animals of all kinds. On stage, he was highly energetic and athletic, and he aired an infectious, exuberant joy. Fellow illusionist Jonathan Pendragon has called him “the best ‘Cat’ magician I ever saw.” Both Siegfried & Roy and The Pendragons performed the fastest and best versions of all the Metamorphosis illusions out there.
I am sure Roy enjoyed every minute of his life with his animals, his partner and their magic. He will be lovingly remembered by the magic community and innumerable fans worldwide.
Rest in peace, Roy, and thank you for all the magic and the joy.
Deutsche Berichte / German news articles:
“Leben zwischen Tricks und Tragik” – dpa/n-tv.de
“Prominente trauern um Roy Horn”
“Der Exzentriker, der keinen Nachnamen brauchte” – Der Spiegel
Nachruf des MZvD zu seinem Ehrenmitglied Roy
ZZZAUBER 