On March 12, 2023, Australian magician Ben Murphy was performing a live show on a Royal Caribbean cruise in front of hundreds of spectators when an audience member rushed the stage and attacked him. The attack occurred during a card trick that involved Murphy and a volunteer from the audience.
The trick involved Murphy leaning in for what appeared to be a “kiss” while he switched the cards to the other person’s mouth. It seems that this intimate moment was too much for one man in the audience who then rushed the stage and tackled Murphy to the ground.
Murphy was left shaken by the incident but thankfully he was not seriously injured. He later took to social media to share his experience, saying “Entertainment, comedy, and magic are NOT contact sports”.
The attack has sparked outrage among many people who have expressed their shock and disbelief at such an act of violence against an entertainer. Many have also called for more security measures to be put in place at live events like these so that performers can feel safe while they do their job.
It’s unfortunate that something like this could happen during what should have been a fun and entertaining event for all involved. It’s important to remember that violence is never acceptable, no matter what the circumstances may be. We must all strive to create an environment where everyone can feel safe and respected while enjoying entertainment such as magic shows or any other type of performance art.
Some will say that the trick was a step too far, and others will say that the man should have just been a little more chill about the situation. Personally, I would not have felt comfortable with another man that close to my wife either, though I don’t think I would have tackled the guy. I think my wife has enough discretion to do what’s right.
