Very sad news from Phil Schwartz: Jack Kodell, who introduced parakeet magic in 1945 and toured the world 13 times, has died.
Born Jack Koudelka in Mankato, Minnesota on November 4, 1927, Kodell performed by the code "Do Something Different" which is also the title of his 2011 book about his life and career. He established many firsts in magic but is principally known as the original bird manipulator.
He retired from magic in 1960. He was a regular at the Chicago Round Table and had life-long friendships with Marvyn and Carol Roy among many others. Marvyn as well as Lance Burton wrote introductions to his book.
Jack Kodell is survived by his wife of 59 years Mary Naylor Kodell who was a British stage and radio star. Mary and Jack moved to Florida in 1997 and have been regulars in the audience of Wizardz, a venue for weekly magic shows in Kissimmee, Florida for years. Our sincerer condolences to his wife and friends. May He Rest in Peace.
