Show Rundown: November 26, 2018

Good Morning Everybody!

Howard returned from the Thanksgiving break with sad news for Stern Show listeners: actor and magician Ricky Jay had passed away over the weekend at the age of 72. In addition to starring alongside Mark Wahlberg in “Boogie Nights,” Hugh Jackman in “The Prestige,” and on HBO’s “Deadwood,” he was a renowned magician and the subject of the documentary “Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay.”

“He was a sleight-of-hand guy,” Howard explained. “His claim to fame was that he could actually throw cards so hard they would stick into watermelon.”

Born Richard Jay Potash, Ricky began performing professionally at a very young age and studied under some of the greats. He honed his act over several decades and eventually became known for simultaneously dazzling audiences with his sleights of hand while also explaining to them the trick’s origins.

“He devoted his life to magic.” Howard said. “He not only loved magic and could perform it well, but he was also a fabulous historian. He knew everything about the history of magic.”

Howard went on to explain what made Ricky’s passing especially painful was the knowledge many of his closely guarded secrets and best tricks have now disappeared along with him.

Rest in peace, Ricky.