Teller

Teller, born Raymond Joseph Teller on February 14, 1948 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is best known as the silent half of the iconic illusionist duo Penn & Teller. From an early age he was fascinated by magic, practicing sleight‑of‑hand tricks in his parents’ basement and later studying theater at Temple University before dropping out to pursue a career in performance art. In the early 1970s he met Penn Jillette, and together they forged a partnership that blended comedy, skepticism, and elaborate stagecraft, revolutionizing contemporary magic and earning a devoted global fan base. Their breakthrough came with the 1985 television special “The Greatest Magic Show on Earth,” which showcased Teller’s distinctive wordless persona, sharp timing, and inventive use of technology, influencing countless magicians who followed. Over the decades Teller has expanded his repertoire beyond performance, co‑authoring books such as Penn & Teller’s Guide to the Laws of Magic and Penn & Teller’s How to Cheat Your Way Through Life, directing experimental stage productions, and inventing patented illusion mechanisms that push the boundaries of perception. He is also a prominent advocate for scientific skepticism, frequently appearing on the Penn & Teller: Bullshit! television series to debunk pseudoscience and promote critical thinking. In addition to his stage work, Teller has contributed to film as a writer and consultant, collaborating on projects such as the 2006 movie The Aristocrats and the 2012 documentary The Magic of Penn & Teller. His contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Magic Circle’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 and induction into the International Magicians Society Hall of Fame. Beyond entertainment, Teller is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting organizations like the Center for Inquiry and the Skeptics Society, further cementing his legacy as both an artist and a public intellectual. Despite his public fame, Teller maintains a private personal life, marrying actress Jillian Bell in 2013, and he rarely discusses family matters, with no publicly known children. His career, spanning more than five decades, continues to evolve as he explores new artistic mediums, making him one of the most influential and enduring figures in modern magic.