Ricky Jay

Ricky Jay (June 26, 1946 – November 24, 2018) was an American stage magician, actor, and writer. Known for his exceptional sleight of hand skills, he was hailed by The New Yorker as "perhaps the most gifted sleight of hand artist alive." Alongside card tricks and memory feats, Jay also excelled in card throwing and stage patter. He authored several books on magic and its history. Notable film roles include appearances in The Prestige, The Spanish Prisoner, Mystery Men, Heist, Boogie Nights, and Tomorrow Never Dies. Jay's talent was recognized in 2015 when he became the sole magician to be featured in an episode of PBS's American Masters.