A professional magician who promised to bring wonder and excitement to children's birthday parties is now facing serious allegations after performing his most impressive trick yet - making families' money disappear.
The Illusion That Went Too Far
Ben Thompson, who performed under the stage name 'The Wizard', stands accused of taking substantial deposits from multiple families across the UK for magic shows that never materialised. The alleged victims include parents who booked his services through popular platforms like Facebook, only to be left with empty promises and lighter wallets.
Parents Left Holding the Empty Hat
One devastated mother, Sarah Jenkins from Manchester, shared her experience of paying a £150 deposit for her son's seventh birthday celebration. "We were so excited to have a professional magician," she recounted. "But when the day arrived, there was no sign of him. My son was heartbroken, and we were left scrambling to entertain twenty disappointed children."
Another victim, David Chen from London, described similar circumstances. "He seemed completely legitimate - professional website, great reviews, quick to respond. I transferred £200 as a deposit for my daughter's party, and then he just vanished. No responses to calls or messages."
The Pattern Emerges
Investigations reveal that Thompson allegedly operated this scheme across multiple regions, with victims reporting identical experiences:
- Initial enthusiastic communication and quick booking confirmation
- Requests for substantial deposits ranging from £150-£300
- Sudden radio silence as the event date approached
- Failed appearances with no explanation or refund
- Blocked phone numbers and deleted social media profiles
Legal Consequences Loom
Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, has confirmed they are investigating multiple complaints against the magician. A spokesperson stated: "We're aware of several reports concerning a magician failing to provide paid-for services. We encourage anyone who believes they've been affected to come forward."
Protecting Yourself From Party Planning Predators
Consumer rights experts advise parents to take precautions when booking entertainment for children's events:
- Research thoroughly: Check multiple review platforms and seek personal recommendations
- Use secure payment methods: Credit cards and protected payment services offer better fraud protection
- Get everything in writing: Formal contracts with cancellation policies provide legal recourse
- Be wary of large deposits: Professional entertainers typically require reasonable advance payments
- Trust your instincts: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is
The magical community has expressed dismay at the allegations. "This behaviour gives professional entertainers a bad name," said Margaret Williams, president of The Magic Circle. "The vast majority of magicians are dedicated professionals who take their commitments seriously."
As authorities continue their investigation, affected families hope that justice will appear - though this time, it won't require any sleight of hand.
