LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Legendary Las Vegas magician and performer Roy Horn has passed away at the age of 75 from COVID-19 complications.
According to a news release, he died in a Las Vegas hospital Friday.
“Today, the world has lost one of the greats of magic, but I have lost my best friend,” said Siegfried Fischbacher. “From the moment we met, I knew Roy and I, together, would change the world. There could be no Siegfried without Roy, and no Roy without Siegfried.”
Siegfried and Roy paved the way for what would become Las Vegas’ dynamite entertainment industry.
“Roy was a fighter his whole life including during these final days. I give my heartfelt appreciation to the team of doctors, nurses and staff at Mountain View Hospital who worked heroically against this insidious virus that ultimately took Roy’s life,” said Siegfried.
Gov. Steve Sisolak Tweeted his condolences, saying in part, “Thank you, Roy, for your years of entertainment to Nevadans and visitors. May you Rest in Peace.”
Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman wrote:
MGM Resorts International joined in honoring the world-class entertainer:
Magician Penn Jillette touted Siegfried and Roy’s impact on Las Vegas and Roy’s electric personality, writing, “He was so full of life, wild and unpredictable. We will miss him”
Another famous Las Vegas magician expressed his condolences and shared the impact Roy had on animal conservation. Lance Burton wrote the following heart-felt statement:
I am heartbroken to hear the news of Roy Horn’s passing. My heart goes out to Siegfried and the entire S&R extended family.
The loss for Las Vegas is enormous. For me the loss is personal. As a boy I saw Siegfried and Roy on television and was inspired. I didn’t know where Las Vegas was, or what gambling was, or what resorts were. I just knew there was a city called Las Vegas and S&R performed there. And I wanted to go there!
We should remember Roy as one of the all time greatest performers. But we should also remember him for his love of animals. He entertained millions of people, but more importantly he educated millions of people on the importance of conservation and sharing our planet with all living creatures. Well done friend.
I thank God for sending Roy Uwe Ludwig Horn to be with us for 75 years.
SARMOTI”
Lance Burton, magician
Horn was born on October 3, 1944 in Germany. Siegfried and Roy’s Las Vegas career began when they debuted their show at The Mirage in 1990.
The release says while Roy’s funeral services will be private, there are plans for a public memorial in the future.
Fans and other are called to make donations to the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health or support Nevada’s battle against COVID-19 instead of leaving flowers.
