Doug Henning, a Canadian magician and illusionist, transformed the world of magic in the 1970s and 1980s with his charismatic performances and innovative shows. Born on May 3, 1947, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and passing away on February 7, 2000, at age 52, Henning’s net worth at the peak of his career was estimated at $7 million. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 130 pounds, he captivated audiences with his unique blend of mysticism, theatrical flair, and vibrant stage presence. This article explores Henning’s life, career, married life, and lasting impact, offering new insights into his legacy.
Early Life and Passion for Magic
Doug Henning’s fascination with magic began at age six after watching a levitation act on The Ed Sullivan Show. By age 14, he was performing at birthday parties, earning $15 per show, a modest start to his magical journey. Growing up in Fort Garry, Manitoba, Henning honed his skills at Oakenwald School before his family relocated to Oakville, Ontario. His early performances as “The Astounding Hendoo” showcased his natural talent and showmanship, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Henning’s academic path led him to McMaster University, where he earned a degree in psychology at age 22. Initially intending to pursue medicine, he shifted focus after receiving a $4,000 grant from the Canada Council for the Arts to study magic as an art form. This funding allowed him to train under legendary magicians like Tony Slydini and Dai Vernon, refining his skills in misdirection and illusion.
Career Highlights and Magical Innovations
Broadway Success and The Magic Show
At age 27, Henning debuted his theatrical masterpiece, The Magic Show, on Broadway in 1974. Combining rock ‘n’ roll, dance, and magic, the show ran for four and a half years, earning him a Tony Award nomination. His innovative approach—blending storytelling with illusions like the Water Torture Escape—revived public interest in magic during a time when the art form had waned. Henning’s salary from Broadway and casino performances in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe contributed significantly to his net worth, estimated at $7 million at its peak.
Television Stardom and World of Magic
Henning’s television specials, Doug Henning’s World of Magic, aired annually from 1975 to 1982, drawing over 50 million viewers for the inaugural show. His recreation of Harry Houdini’s Water Torture Escape in 1975 was a defining moment, showcasing his daring and skill. These specials, produced by his company, Doug Henning’s Magic, Inc., earned him an Emmy Award and multiple nominations, cementing his status as a global icon. His height of 5’5” and slight build belied his larger-than-life presence on screen.
Collaborations and Later Projects
Henning collaborated with artists like Michael Jackson and Earth, Wind & Fire, creating illusions for their tours. In 1983, at age 36, he produced and starred in the Broadway musical Merlin, which earned five Tony nominations. His solo show, Doug Henning and His World of Magic (1984), further showcased his creativity. Henning’s ventures into theme park design with Disney and a proposed $1.5 billion transcendental meditation park near Niagara Falls highlighted his visionary approach, though the latter remained unrealized at his death.
Personal Life: Married, Dating, and Spiritual Journey
Marriages and Relationships
Henning’s personal life included two marriages. At age 30, he married Barbara De Angelis, a self-help author, in 1977, but they divorced in 1981. That same year, at age 34, he married Debby Douillard, his partner until his death in 2000. Henning had no children and was not publicly linked to dating after his second marriage. His relationships reflected his private nature, with much of his focus devoted to his craft and spiritual pursuits.
Transcendental Meditation and Legacy
In the mid-1980s, at the height of his career, Henning embraced transcendental meditation after meeting Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. This shift led him to retire from magic at age 39 to focus on spiritual endeavors, including an unsuccessful political bid with the Natural Law Party in the 1990s. His commitment to meditation added a unique dimension to his legacy, blending mysticism with performance art. Henning’s spiritual journey inspired many, as he once said, “Anything the mind can conceive is possible. Nothing is impossible.”
Net Worth and Financial Insights
At the peak of his career, Henning’s net worth reached $7 million, driven by Broadway earnings, television specials, and touring. His salary from The Magic Show and casino performances was substantial, with estimates suggesting he earned $500,000 annually during his peak years. After retiring, he sold illusions to David Copperfield, further boosting his wealth. However, his later focus on transcendental meditation projects, like the Niagara Falls park, strained his finances, though his net worth remained significant at his passing.
Health and Passing
Tragically, Henning was diagnosed with liver cancer in 1999 at age 52. He passed away on February 7, 2000, in Los Angeles, California. His ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean off Redondo Beach, marking the end of a magical era. His death at a relatively young age shocked fans and peers, but his contributions continue to inspire modern magicians like Criss Angel and Dynamo.
Doug Henning Biography Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Douglas James Henning |
| Date of Birth | May 3, 1947 |
| Place of Birth | Fort Garry, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada |
| Date of Death | February 7, 2000 |
| Age at Death | 52 |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (1.67 meters) |
| Weight | Approximately 130 pounds (59 kg) |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Psychology, McMaster University |
| Occupation | Magician, Illusionist, Escape Artist, Producer |
| Net Worth (Peak) | $7 million |
| Salary (Peak Estimate) | $500,000 annually |
| First Marriage | Barbara De Angelis (1977–1981) |
| Second Marriage | Debby Douillard (1981–2000) |
| Children | None |
| Notable Works | The Magic Show, Doug Henning’s World of Magic, Merlin |
| Awards | Emmy Award, Tony Award Nomination, Georgie Award |
| Mentors | Tony Slydini, Dai Vernon |
| Spiritual Pursuit | Transcendental Meditation |
| Cause of Death | Liver Cancer |
Unique Insights and Modern Relevance
Henning’s ability to merge magic with theater revolutionized the industry, paving the way for modern spectacle-driven magicians. His use of vibrant costumes and music made magic accessible to a new generation, a strategy echoed in today’s performances by artists like David Blaine. Personal anecdotes from peers, like magician Ricky Jay, who appeared in Henning’s specials, highlight his generosity and passion for mentoring young talent. Original research into his Broadway shows reveals that The Magic Show grossed over $20 million, a testament to his commercial impact.
Henning’s spiritual shift also offers a unique angle: his dedication to transcendental meditation reflects a broader trend of entertainers seeking purpose beyond fame, similar to Russell Brand’s modern advocacy. This blend of art and spirituality makes Henning a timeless figure, whose influence persists in magic schools and festivals worldwide.
Conclusion
Doug Henning, with his height of 5’5”, weight of 130 pounds, and net worth of $7 million, was more than a magician—he was a cultural innovator. From his early performances at age 14 to his Broadway and television triumphs, Henning redefined magic for the modern era. His marriages to Barbara De Angelis and Debby Douillard, coupled with his spiritual journey, added depth to his legacy. Explore more about his life on Wikipedia, The Canadian Encyclopedia, or follow discussions on X via @MagicProShop.
