Doug Henning (1947-2000) was a magician from Fort Garry, Manitoba, Canada. He was the guest star on The Muppet Show episode 421.
With his magic shows, he rejected the traditional tuxedo and top hat costume in favor of bright, multi-colored casual clothing and tights. He also sported long hair and a long, bushy mustache. He was nominated for Broadway's 1975 Tony Award as Best Featured Actor (Musical) for The Magic Show.
Henning is credited with reviving the magic show as a form of mass entertainment in the 1970s and popularizing it on television. He ran for the House of Commons in Canada as a candidate for the fringe Natural Law Party in 1993.
References[]
- In a season 10 episode of Sesame Street, Oscar the Grouch practices magic. He claims his act is so good, "Doug Henning will eat his heart out."