07/11/2026
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Today we celebrate the birthday of one of Chicago television's most beloved personalities and magical entertainers, the late Marshall Brodien.
Born and raised in Chicago, Marshall discovered his love of magic at just eight years old after seeing a magician perform at school. By age 14, he was demonstrating magic tricks at Chicago's famed Magic Center, and at 16 he was performing at Riverview Park. During his Army service in the 1950s, he entertained troops and patients with more than 700 magic shows.
Marshall first appeared on Bozo's Circus in 1962, but it was his transformation into Wizzo the Wizard in the early 1970s that made him a Chicago television legend. With his magical Stone of Zanzabar, quick wit, and unforgettable chemistry with Bozo, Marshall delighted generations of families on WGN-TV for more than two decades before retiring from the show in 1994.
Beyond television, Brodien became America's best-known magician through his iconic TV Magic Cards commercials. More than 17 million of the trick decks were sold, inspiring countless young magicians across the country.
Celebrate Marshall Brodien's remarkable legacy by visiting our Bozo's Circus: 65 Years exhibit at the Museum of Broadcast Communications, 440 W. Randolph Street, Chicago. Explore one of the most comprehensive collections of Bozo history ever assembled, featuring original costumes, the iconic Bozo bass drum that opened every show, Grand Prize Game artifacts, props, memorabilia, rare photographs, and much more.
Visit the museum TODAY! For tickets, go to MUSEUM.TV!