Gearbox Boss Randy Pitchford Buys Hollywood’s Magic Castle
Gearbox co-founder/CEO/magician Randy Pitchford has purchased The Magic Fort, an iconic Hollywood property that’s each residence to The Academy of Magical Arts (AMA) and has additionally been the topic of great allegations of a “number of abuses, together with sexual assault, sexual harassment and discrimination on the premise of race or gender.”
These allegations in opposition to the Academy, first made public in a report by the LA Instances in 2020, could be learn right here. They’ve loomed over the organisation, and the constructing, ever since, although as this more moderen report reveals, a few of the magicians performing there (and the Academy itself) have been attempting to implement adjustments.
Pitchford didn’t disclose how a lot he paid for the historic constructing—which was named an “Cultural Monument” by the town in 1989—although he’s its first new proprietor in over 50 years, with The Magic Fort having been within the Glover household since 1961.
“The Magic Fort is like bedrock – the middle level of magic. The individuals who consider the Fort as their residence and the place itself appear to have magical properties which have created and impressed a few of the world’s best entertainers,” Pitchford, himself a member of the AMA, mentioned in a press release. “I’m proud to be trusted to each give again to the place that made me to grow to be the custodian of the Magic Fort and to work with its members and the Larsen household to make sure our most unimaginable membership home grows and thrives for many years to come back.”
For those who’re curious, right here’s what the place seems to be like:
Ah, sorry. Right here’s what the place seems to be like:
Magic duo Penn & Teller additionally commented (or a minimum of wrote) on the sale:
Penn: I’ve recognized Randy Pitchford for years, and I do know he has a day job, however in my thoughts he’s a magician. I imagine Randy’s coronary heart is in magic. For so long as I’ve recognized in regards to the Magic Fort it’s been a bit precarious. I all the time anxious about it. Now I don’t must. The Magic Fort, an important gathering place for magicians is now in protected and loving palms. I’m relieved and delighted. Randy’s professionalism, love for magic, and dedication to entertaining the world are what the Magic Fort must propel it ahead. All the magic neighborhood is applauding Randy and excited in regards to the new period of the Magic Fort. And perhaps now I can get in and not using a tie as a result of I do know Randy.
Teller: The Magic Fort is the center of American magic. It’s each an amazing performing venue and a historic and a cultural landmark. However a serious hearth and the pandemic put its future unsure. I’m so joyful to listen to that Randy Pitchford has been capable of assist the Fort survive, thrive, and increase. Randy’s one of many high leisure producers on the earth, with deep roots within the historical past and follow of magic. All of us owe him a giant thanks.