Mat Franco, born on May 10, 1988, captured the hearts of millions as the winner of America’s Got Talent (AGT) during the show’s ninth season. Known for his skillful sleight of hand magic and charismatic personality, Franco’s journey from a small town in Rhode Island to becoming the first magician to win AGT is nothing short of magical.
Background and Early Career:
Mat Franco’s fascination with magic ignited at a young age, inspired by the enchanting performances he witnessed on television. From performing tricks in kindergarten to studying magic in the enchanting city of Las Vegas, Franco’s passion for the art form flourished. After graduating from Johnston High School in 2006, he pursued higher education at the University of Rhode Island, earning a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Communication Studies.
During his college years, Franco showcased his talents by performing a one-man show on college campuses across the United States. His dedication and talent didn’t go unnoticed, earning him a nomination for “Fastest Rising Star” in 2010 and the title of “Best College Performer” by Campus Activities Magazine in 2013.
America’s Got Talent Triumph:
- In 2014, Mat Franco catapulted to stardom by participating in America’s Got Talent. His personality-driven and skill-based magic not only mesmerized the judges but also captivated the audience. At the season finale, Franco was announced as the America’s Got Talent (AGT) Winner, marking a historic moment as the first magician to claim victory on AGT.
Post his AGT triumph, Franco continued to make appearances on subsequent seasons, showcasing his magic skills and even entertaining host Terry Crews with some comedic tricks.
Career Success and Live Shows:
Since his victory on AGT, Mat Franco has achieved remarkable success in his magical career. In 2015, he debuted his live stage show, “Mat Franco – Magic Reinvented Nightly,” in Las Vegas. The show, blending magic, comedy, and audience interaction, has garnered widespread acclaim.
“Mat Franco – Magic Reinvented Nightly” earned prestigious accolades such as “Best Magic Show” at the Best of Vegas Awards and “Best Show on the Las Vegas Strip” according to Billboard.com in 2021. It continues to be a top-rated magic show, delighting audiences with Franco’s unique style and captivating performances.
TV Specials and Recognition:
In addition to his live show, Mat Franco showcased his magic on the small screen. He produced and starred in his primetime TV specials on NBC titled “Mat Franco’s Got Magic” in 2015. These specials not only showcased his incredible magic tricks but also solidified his status as one of the most talented magicians in the industry.
Mat Franco’s talents and showmanship have earned him widespread recognition and numerous awards. In 2016, he was named “Best Show” on the Las Vegas Strip in the Las Vegas Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards.
Continued Success and Recognition:
Mat Franco’s magical prowess hasn’t gone unnoticed beyond the realm of live shows and TV specials. His engaging personality and captivating performances have landed him guest appearances on popular talk shows such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Access Hollywood, and The Today Show, expanding his reach and gaining a new audience.
Conclusion:
Since his triumphant win on America’s Got Talent, Mat Franco has continued to thrive as a magician, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing performances. From the glittering stages of Las Vegas to the screens of television, Franco’s journey showcases not only his magical talents but also his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.
As he ventures into 2024, Mat Franco stands as a top-rated magician in Las Vegas and a beloved figure in the world of magic. His unwavering dedication to his craft, combined with his unique ability to forge a connection with audiences, ensures that his magical journey will continue to flourish in the years to come.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
