Acting
The Amazing Johnathan
John Edward Szeles, born on September 9, 1958, and widely recognized as The Amazing Johnathan, was a unique blend of comedian and magician whose captivating performances left a lasting impression on audiences. Known for his outrageous humor and distinctive style, Szeles often incorporated elements of shock and gore into his act, earning him the nickname "the Freddy Krueger of Comedy." His shows, which prominently featured audience interaction and unconventional magic tricks, made him a staple in Las Vegas from 2001 to 2014.
Hailing from Detroit, Szeles began his artistic journey performing on the streets of San Francisco in the 1970s. He gained national exposure with appearances on "The 8th Annual Young Comedians Show" in 1983 and later hosted the short-lived variety/game show "Ruckus" in 1991. His television career flourished with notable appearances on talk shows like "Late Night with David Letterman" and a record 24 episodes of "Comic Strip Live." He starred in several Comedy Central specials, including "Wrong on Every Level," dedicated to his Uncle Eugene, who inspired his passion for magic.
In addition to his performance career, Szeles authored "Every Trick in the Book," a guide to practical jokes and magic tricks, and was in the process of writing his memoir, "Drive It Like You Stole It," before his health declined. Szeles passed away from heart failure in Las Vegas on February 22, 2022, at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and creativity.
