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United Kingdom John van der Put, known as Piff the Magic Dragon, has evolved from award-winning British magician to a Las Vegas headliner and American television personality, utilizing a unique blend of magic and deadpan comedy.
John van der Put, also known as Piff the Magic Dragon, underwent a transformation during season 9 of 'Queer Eye', where the Fab Five provided a makeover. He was nominated by his magic colleagues Penn & Teller, and his wife Jade Simone.
Piff the Magic Dragon holds a residency at The Flamingo, where his show has been voted Best Headliner, Best Magician, and Best Comedian. The 'Bugsy’s Cabaret' theater was renamed the 'Piff the Magic Dragon Theater' in his honor, and his show later moved to the larger Flamingo Showroom with a three-year contract.
Piff the Magic Dragon served as a support act for the band Mumford & Sons on their 2012 Tour of Two Halves. The band discovered Piff during 'The Secret Policeman's Ball 2012' and featured him on their album 'Babel'.
Van der Put moved to Las Vegas to join The Cosmopolitan's 'Rose. Rabbit. Lie' club and its 'Vegas Nocturne' show in 2014, after being headhunted while touring in Australia.
Van der Put served as a consultant for Penn & Teller, contributing to the development of their 'Vanishing African Spotted Pygmy Elephant Act'.
Van der Put worked as a magic consultant for the theatre company Theatre-Rites for their production of 'Mojo'.
Van der Put consulted for chef Heston Blumenthal, working on 'magic water' for his restaurant The Fat Duck, designed to pour still and sparkling water from the same bottle without physical division.
John van der Put was born on June 9, 1980, in London, England. His interest in magic began as a teenager after observing Jerry Sadowitz on a BBC2 program. He became one of the youngest members of The Magic Circle at age 18. Initially pursuing a Computer Science degree and working in IT, a health issue prompted him to shift his focus to performance. He subsequently trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama.
In 2008, van der Put developed the persona of Piff the Magic Dragon, characterized by a dragon costume and a dry, self-deprecating comedic style. This character was first showcased at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2009, setting a record for highest takings in one night at the Free Fringe Festival and earning the Best Comedy Show award at the Buxton Fringe. His unique act, often featuring his Chihuahua assistant, Mr. Piffles, gained international recognition through appearances on shows such as “Penn & Teller: Fool Us” in 2011 and “America’s Got Talent” in 2015. He reached the finals of “America’s Got Talent” in its 10th season.
Following his success on “America’s Got Talent,” van der Put secured a residency at The Flamingo in Las Vegas. The Flamingo later renamed its “Bugsy’s Cabaret” theater to the “Piff the Magic Dragon Theater.” In 2019, he was recognized by Variety as one of their “10 Comics to Watch.” His career has been marked by a consistent presence in Las Vegas and touring across the United States. In 2024, van der Put participated in the ninth season of “Queer Eye,” nominated by his wife and fellow magicians Penn & Teller. He continues to perform his blend of magic and comedy, influencing a diverse audience.
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