Criss Angel, the renowned American illusionist, magician, and musician, has mesmerized audiences with his mind-bending illusions and theatrical performances for decades. As of 2025, Criss Angel’s net worth is estimated at $50 million, a fortune amassed through his stage shows, television productions, music ventures, and merchandise sales. Angel, whose real name is Christopher Nicholas Sarantakos, has built an empire around his brand of magic, earning numerous accolades and world records in the process.
Early Life and Passion for Magic
Born on December 19, 1967, in Hempstead, New York, Criss Angel was raised in Elmont and East Meadow with his parents, John and Dimitra Sarantakos, and his two brothers, Costa and J.D.. Angel’s fascination with magic began at the age of 7, when his aunt Stella introduced him to a card trick. By the age of 12, he was performing live magic shows, captivating local audiences with his talent. His first major illusion involved making his mother levitate in their family home, a moment that solidified his desire to pursue a career in magic.
Though his parents encouraged him to attend college, Angel was determined to follow his passion. After graduating from East Meadow High School, he joined various touring acts, perfecting his craft and setting the stage for his future success.
Rise to Fame: Mindfreak and Beyond
Criss Angel catapulted to mainstream recognition with his groundbreaking television series, Criss Angel Mindfreak, which aired on A&E from 2005 to 2010. The show featured daring illusions, street magic, and mind-blowing stunts, earning Angel a devoted fanbase. His collaborations with major networks and live performances further expanded his reach:
- 2008-2016: Partnered with Cirque du Soleil to create Criss Angel Believe at Luxor Las Vegas, which grossed over $5 million in advance ticket sales.
- 2016-2018: Headlined Mindfreak LIVE! at Luxor.
- 2018-present: Launched Criss Angel MINDFREAK at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.
In addition to television, Criss Angel has appeared on shows like The Oprah Winfrey Show, CSI: NY, WWE RAW, and Larry King Live, showcasing his magic to millions worldwide.
Musical Ventures and Other Projects
Beyond magic, Angel explored the music industry as the frontman of Angeldust, a heavy metal band he formed in 1995. The group released several studio albums, including:
- Musical Conjurings From the World of Illusion
- System 1
- System 2
- System 3
In 2010, Angel expanded his brand by launching the Criss Angel Magic Collection in collaboration with IdeaVillage, offering fans access to magic kits and instructional guides.
Personal Life: Family, Philanthropy, and Challenges
Criss Angel has experienced both triumphs and challenges in his personal life. He married JoAnn Winkhart in 2002, but the couple divorced in 2006. He later dated Holly Madison, Hugh Hefner’s former girlfriend, from 2008 to 2009. In 2012, he entered a relationship with Shaunyl Benson, with whom he shares two sons, Johnny (born 2014) and Xristos (born 2019).
Angel faced an emotional battle when his son Johnny was diagnosed with leukemia before the age of 2. Although the cancer initially went into remission, it tragically returned in 2019. In response, Angel transformed his nonprofit organization, Believe Anything Is Possible, into the Johnny Crisstopher Children’s Charitable Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research. His philanthropic efforts earned him recognition from The Make-A-Wish Foundation, which honored him with the Chris Greicius Celebrity Award in 2007 and named him the most supportive celebrity in 2010.
Awards and Achievements
Criss Angel has been one of the most awarded magicians in history, earning multiple accolades from prestigious organizations:
- International Magicians Society named him Magician of the Year five times (2001-2008) and Magician of the Decade (2009).
- World Magic Legacy Awards presented him with the Living Legend Award (2011).
- Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2017).
- Became the youngest magician to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Brotherhood of Magicians (2018).
Angel has also set multiple Guinness World Records, including:
- Longest time submerged underwater (24 hours).
- Fastest “Metamorphosis” illusion (under a second).
- Quickest straightjacket escape (2.5 minutes).
- Made 100 audience members vanish simultaneously (2010).
Net Worth and Financial Success in 2025
As of 2025, Criss Angel’s net worth stands at an estimated $50 million, primarily due to:
- Television contracts (Mindfreak, BeLIEve, MINDFREAK LIVE!)
- Residency performances in Las Vegas
- Merchandise and magic kit sales
- Touring shows and live performances
- Music and book royalties (Mindfreak: Secret Revelations, 2007)
Despite the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to performance cancellations, Angel successfully resumed his MINDFREAK residency in Las Vegas, ensuring continued financial growth.