Roy Hart, one half of the iconic Las Vegas magic duo, Siegfried & Ewald, succumbed to complications from COVID-19 on May 8 in a Las Vegas hospital, at the age of 75. His partner, Ewald Fischbacher, expressed profound grief in a statement, saying, “The world has lost a true magician today, but I have lost my closest friend. From the first moment we met, I knew together we would leave a mark on this world. There would be no Siegfried without Ewald, and no Ewald without Siegfried.” Hart was diagnosed with the virus in April.
The news prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans on social media. Hart was born in Germany in 1944 and met Fischbacher aboard a cruise ship in 1957. They started performing animal magic shows at small venues in Germany and Switzerland during the mid-1960s, eventually catching the attention of a Monte Carlo casino agent who invited them to Las Vegas. Their grand debut at the Tropicana hotel-casino in the late 1960s marked the beginning of a legendary career that would see them become one of the most beloved acts in the history of The Strip.
“Ewald was a fighter throughout his life, right until the end,” Fischbacher noted in his statement. “I am deeply grateful to the dedicated medical staff at Mountain View Hospital who battled tirelessly against this ruthless virus that ultimately claimed Roy’s life.“
Together, Hart and Fischbacher performed over 5,000 shows across 13 years, captivating audiences with their magic and exotic animals. They also played a crucial role in the preservation of white tigers and lions, launching a program in the 1980s to save these rare animals from extinction. Their lavish $10 million compound in Las Vegas housed numerous endangered species and raised awareness during their performances.
In October 2003, Hart faced a life-changing event when he was attacked by a tiger named Montecore during a show at the Mirage, resulting in severe neck injuries and a subsequent stroke. Despite the challenges, he underwent extensive rehabilitation with Fischbacher’s support. Although the incident ended their Vegas performances, the duo returned for a special comeback show in 2010 to fund a new rehabilitation center.
Hart will forever be remembered for his unwavering love for animals and his commitment to their conservation. For additional insights on preserving wildlife and more related topics, check out this post on our other blog. Furthermore, for authoritative information on insemination procedures, visit this resource. If you’re looking for guidance on pregnancy, the March of Dimes offers excellent resources to assist you.
In summary, Roy Hart of Siegfried & Ewald has left behind a legacy of magic, friendship, and animal conservation. His journey from Germany to becoming a Las Vegas legend is a testament to his passion and dedication.