The Wizard of Pop: A Catalan Icon Expands His Magic Across Borders
Antonio Diaz, better known as Wizard of Pop, is a master of illusion who never expected his craft to carry him so far. Honored as Català de l’Any, he remains grateful for the recognition from the Catalan newspaper, part of the Prensa Ibérica group. While he prepares for a new performance run of Nothing is Impossible at the Victòria theatre, his thoughts are already turning to an upcoming return to the United States in April. His Broadway triumph this summer has opened doors he once only dreamed of.
Is the magician truly a product of a crafted character, or is the character a window into who he really is?
It’s a blend. The Wizard of Pop ultimately honors Antonio’s own reality while concealing some flaws. Like Antonio, the person behind the stage persona is introverted and measured. Pop Magician, however, radiates energy—bright, quick, and playful. He shines when he’s among people he knows, but the party atmosphere is not his natural wheelhouse. On stage, though, a different ease takes over. Building a persona that keeps audiences riveted was something he had to develop.
Craft over luck: the craft of a lifetime
How much luck is needed to reach the pinnacle?
Luck plays a role for everyone. There is surely luck in a successful career, but it’s not the sole driver. Survival itself is a kind of lottery: staying healthy, maintaining the stamina to choose well, and dedicating years to one’s passion carve out a chance to excel.
What stands out as the defining moments of a career?
Three or four moments rise above the rest. A turning point was creating a television program with international reach. It required luck, but also tireless work, sacrifice, and hours spent thinking about what would resonate across cultures. For years, magic dominated every waking moment. It felt like falling in love—the craft of tricks, plans, and shows that connect with diverse audiences. In the end, success is a balance; luck helps, but effort is essential.
Did last season feel like touching the sky?
Professionally, it was the apex. Even when extraordinary milestones accumulate, Broadway triumphs surpass expectations. The year stood out as extraordinary, with the show’s success exceeding every forecast. Going to Broadway had seemed improbable; achieving such a level of acclaim is a once-in-a-career moment that remains unforgettable.
What goal lies ahead?
A return home tops the list of future priorities. The year brings multiple awards, yet the Català de l’Any prize—coming from one’s own community—excites him most. With eight million potential fans at home, he believes many deserve the honor, but the personal thrill of earning it while performing sleight of hand is undeniable. The plan now is to enjoy performances near family and friends before refocusing on a second half of 2024 dedicated to the USA. A new chapter is on the horizon.
The invitation list seems endless. How will the next move unfold?
Offers from Broadway and Las Vegas are on the table, yet there is a bold plan to test Branson, Missouri. A night at a venue that could attract more spectators than anywhere else feels like a strategic gamble with high appeal. Branson may not hold the same global glamour as New York or Las Vegas, but there is something poetic about launching a magic theater there. The idea centers on labor and craft, inviting audiences from across the country to witness the artistry. Those who discover Branson might be amazed by what appears on stage.
Branson versus New York? What’s the plan for 2024?
Negotiations are ongoing, and plans can shift. The belief remains that there are several years left for a dynamic career, with the possibility of tackling temptations in New York and Las Vegas yet to be fully explored. If the current theater project succeeds, it could redefine where the magic travels, without sacrificing the pleasure of performing close to home.
A modest family, big dreams from Badia del Vallès
What will Branson host when the Wizard of Pop isn’t performing?
The plan centers on making the most of what many consider the world’s premier magic theatre. The goal is to stage top illusionists in a space that feels like a personal Madison Square Garden for magic. Magicians already express excitement at the prospect, sensing something truly extraordinary on the horizon.
Where does such ambition and the ability to dream big originate?
The drive comes from a shift toward strategic thinking and brand development. Creating a lasting show business presence means more than tricks; it requires a plan that scales. Over the years, a fascination with branding and word-of-mouth growth has grown clearer. Goals are set, pursued, and measured. A chess mindset—where a poor plan beats no plan, but a good plan beats a great performance—guides the journey. The focus remains on ambitious, tangible objectives.
Bursting with energy and a flair for the unconventional
Has finance or advice shaped the path?
Financing comes from within. A small team of trusted colleagues meets to brainstorm, testing ideas that blend brand strategy with practical risk assessment. The aim is to balance present needs with future opportunities. The brand cannot be franchised, which makes careful stewardship essential. A sizable organization supports many people, and the balance between calculated risk and adventure is vital. The focus remains on expanding into the USA while staying connected to home, a source of personal joy and professional happiness.
How is pressure managed as success grows?
Pressure eases with time. There were tough moments when it felt like every day depended on the present moment. The challenge is evolving with the career: continuing to make smart decisions so the team stays proud, and the growth curve keeps rising. The resilience built through difficulties makes the climb feel possible. The journey resembles a long movie where the stakes keep increasing, and the destination keeps moving higher.
As a kid, the dream was grand—to sit among the legends like Copperfield and Houdini.
The path from a small town to the world stage is a testament to teamwork. A long-standing relationship with a manager of fifteen years and a large supporting cast make large dreams achievable. Family support and humor have been the enduring inheritance, turning free time into a launchpad for discipline and craft. The desire to grow never dries up, and the drive to reach the pinnacle of magic remains strong.
Copperfield and Houdini stand as heroes. Any other inspirations?
Domestically, Mag Lari is a respected beacon. Copperfield himself congratulated on the Broadway debut, a moment that felt as momentous as hearing from a legend. In the end, Copperfield is often regarded as the greatest wizard in history.
El Mago Pop expands his footprint with a theater in the United States
Now 37, single, there are questions about personal milestones.
It brings a wry smile. Life stays busy; the world feels loud, and he remains consciously a little unusual. Yet the journey has brought him wonderful people and moments. He holds a deep faith in love and believes that life often aligns with intention. He remains open to what comes next, hopeful that the future holds more chances to connect through magic.
How long will he stay on stage?
Retiring is not on the current horizon. The childhood dream of being the best magician fuels ongoing ambition. The plan includes continuing to create and possibly directing a film, with a lifelong interest in cinema and musical productions. The theater world remains a source of fascination, and a future program could very well emerge from the stage itself.
Is there room for training other magicians?
Yes. But the emphasis stays on building a broader show business presence rather than simply teaching tricks. The aim is to approach other art forms—like cinema or a musical—while keeping the magic program at the core of the brand.