Criss Angel: Ideological Bigot? Or Just Another Showy Stunt?

by Nicole

Controversy broke out on the set of NBC’s Phenomenon last night when celebrity judge Criss Angel challenged one of the show's contestants, causing an uncomfortable altercation between the two which was broadcast live. The show, which premiered on October 24th, pits ten performers against each other in a search for the next great mentalist, and features world-renowned paranormalist Uri Geller as the show's other judge.

The on air fight broke out after Pittsburgh born contestant Jim Callahan successfully identified an object hidden in a locked salt filled box with the help of his spirit guide Raymond. Geller gave a very positive post-performance critique, saying, “Your display of supernatural powers is very controversial but very convincing…I want to believe there is a Raymond on the other side. Besides, there is a flair of honesty about you that brings credibility to what you say.”

Angel however, was not so convinced, telling Callahan, "I just think it’s comic book quite frankly.” He then went on to challenge the validity of both Callahan and fellow judge Geller’s paranormal powers. “I will give you a million dollars of my personal money right now if either one of you can tell me specific details of what’s in here right now,” said Angel, as he pulled an envelope from his pocket and held it up for the cameras.

Callahan, upset that a fellow performer, who also makes a living from mystifying audiences, would make such a challenge, responded angrily, saying, “OK man, I’ll tell you what I will tell you. I find you an ideological bigot.” Angel then rose from his chair as the two came toward each other. Callahan was then seen being restrained by the show’s host as they went to a commercial break.

Angel, an illusionist who became a household name thanks to his A&E series Mindfreak and his showy stunts such as making a Lamborghini disappear, has previously declared his own act does not rely on paranormal powers. "I do not believe that anybody has the ability to do anything that's supernatural," he is quoted as saying. Last night's incident was clearly premeditated, since Angel had prepared the envelope before viewing Callahan's act –– not exactly the open-minded attitude you'd expect from a judge.

The show's producers were clearly courting controversy by pairing Angel with Geller, who first rose to fame in the 1970’s with his paranormal displays of psychokinesis, dowsing, and telepathy. The producers, at least, showed their powers of insight and prediction, getting exactly what they wanted last night.

http://www.dailymantra.com
http://www.myspace.com/thedailymantra