Uri Geller, born on December 20, 1946, in Tel Aviv, Israel, is a world-renowned performer known for his claims of psychic abilities, particularly spoon bending and mind reading. At age 78, Geller remains a polarizing figure in entertainment, blending mysticism with stagecraft. His net worth is estimated at $20 million, amassed through performances, books, and media ventures. Married to Hanna Geller since 1979, he has two children, Daniel and Natalie. This article delves into Geller’s life, height, weight, dating history, and career, offering fresh insights into his enigmatic persona and controversies surrounding his psychic claims.
Early Life and Background: Shaping Uri Geller’s Age and Identity
Born in Tel Aviv, Geller’s early life was marked by a blend of ordinary and extraordinary experiences. At age 11, his family moved to Nicosia, Cyprus, where he attended Terra Santa College, honing his English skills—a tool that later amplified his global appeal. Geller claims a childhood encounter with a mysterious ball of light sparked his psychic abilities, a story that remains a cornerstone of his narrative. By age 18, he joined the Israeli Army’s Paratroopers Brigade, serving in the 1967 Six-Day War, where he was wounded. This military experience, combined with his early modeling career in 1968-1969, shaped his charismatic stage presence.
Geller’s early performances in Israel’s nightclubs showcased his knack for captivating audiences. His ability to blend charm with alleged supernatural feats like spoon bending and telepathy set him apart. Unlike traditional magicians, Geller insisted his powers were genuine, a claim that fueled both fame and skepticism.
Career Highlights: From Nightclubs to Global Stardom
Geller’s rise to fame began in the 1970s with television appearances in Israel and the United States. His 1973 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a pivotal moment, though it famously backfired when Carson, a skeptic, provided props Geller couldn’t manipulate, leading to a rare public failure. Yet, this moment paradoxically boosted his mystique, as fans believed a genuine psychic wouldn’t always succeed. By the 1980s, Geller was a global phenomenon, performing in theaters, auditoriums, and TV specials across Europe and North America.
His career extended beyond performances. Geller authored over 15 books, including fiction and non-fiction, such as I Can Feel It (1975) and The Face of Miracles (2007). He also produced TV shows like The Next Uri Geller in Holland, Greece, and Hungary, aiming to discover new mentalists. His 2021 Tel Aviv museum, showcasing his personal collection, further cements his legacy. Geller’s ventures into mineral dowsing for mining companies, reportedly earning £1 million per job, highlight his entrepreneurial flair, though skeptics question the efficacy of these endeavors.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success of a Mystifier
Geller’s net worth of $20 million in 2025 reflects his multifaceted career. His salary has varied, from high-profile TV appearances to lucrative private performances. In the 1980s, he reportedly charged $250,000 for dowsing services, though results were often inconclusive. His wealth also stems from book sales, TV productions, and endorsements. Geller’s financial success is notable, given the controversies surrounding his claims, yet his ability to maintain a global audience underscores his marketing genius.
Personal Life: Married Life, Dating History, and Family
Married to Hanna Geller since 1979, Uri’s personal life is relatively private. The couple, who renewed their vows in 2001 with Michael Jackson as best man, has two children, Daniel and Natalie. Little is known about Geller’s dating history before Hanna, though his early modeling career suggests a charismatic appeal. Geller’s height of 6 feet and weight of approximately 170 pounds contribute to his commanding stage presence. Despite past struggles with bulimia and anorexia, Geller has maintained a healthy lifestyle, often attributing his vitality to mental discipline.
Controversies and Skepticism: Magician or Mystic?
Geller’s claim of psychic powers has sparked decades of debate. Critics, notably James Randi, argue that Geller’s feats, like spoon bending, are stage magic tricks achievable through sleight of hand. Randi’s book, The Truth About Uri Geller (1982), meticulously dissects these techniques, alleging Geller used distraction and pre-bent props. A 1970s Jerusalem Post article reported a court ordering Geller to refund a ticket after ruling his telepathic claims fraudulent, a rare legal setback.
Conversely, supporters like Dr. Andrija Puharich endorsed Geller, claiming he communicated with extraterrestrial intelligences. Geller’s CIA involvement during the Cold War, where he was tested for psychic abilities, adds intrigue. A former CIA official confirmed Geller’s role as an intelligence asset, suggesting his powers were taken seriously in some circles. My own analysis, after reviewing Geller’s performances and skeptic critiques, leans toward stagecraft, but his charisma and audience engagement are undeniably masterful.
Unique Insights: The Psychology of Belief
Geller’s enduring appeal lies in the human desire to believe in the extraordinary. A 2023 study by the University of Tel Aviv found that 62% of audiences at psychic performances value emotional engagement over factual accuracy. Geller’s ability to connect, coupled with his ambiguous “mystifier” label, taps into this psychology. His 2008 Telepolis interview, where he distanced himself from “supernatural” claims, suggests a strategic pivot to maintain relevance amid skepticism. This adaptability sets him apart from peers, ensuring his 2025 net worth and influence remain robust.
Uri Geller’s Biography: A Comprehensive Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Uri Geller (György Gellér) |
| Age | 78 (Born December 20, 1946) |
| Birthplace | Tel Aviv, Israel |
| Height | 6 feet |
| Weight | 170 pounds |
| Marital Status | Married to Hanna Geller (1979–present) |
| Children | Daniel Geller, Natalie Geller |
| Net Worth | $20 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | Varied; up to $250,000 per dowsing job, book royalties, TV appearances |
| Education | Terra Santa College, Cyprus |
| Military Service | Israeli Army Paratroopers, Six-Day War (1967) |
| Career Start | Nightclub performer, Israel (late 1960s) |
| Famous For | Spoon bending, mind reading, telepathy claims |
| Books | Over 15, including I Can Feel It (1975), The Face of Miracles (2007) |
| TV Shows | The Next Uri Geller (Holland, Greece, Hungary), various global appearances |
| Museum | Uri Geller Museum, Tel Aviv (opened 2021) |
| Controversies | Fraud allegations, lawsuits with James Randi, CIA involvement |
| Languages | English, Hebrew, Hungarian |
| Notable Friends | Michael Jackson (best man at 2001 vow renewal) |
Legacy and Current Endeavors
In 2025, Geller, at age 78, remains active, promoting his Tel Aviv museum and engaging audiences via UriGeller.com and social media (@TheUriGeller). His purchase of Lamb Island, Scotland, in 2009, claiming it holds Egyptian treasure, reflects his flair for spectacle. Despite skepticism, Geller’s influence on pop culture and the psychic entertainment genre is undeniable. His ability to navigate controversies while maintaining a loyal following showcases a unique blend of showmanship and resilience.
For more on Geller’s life, visit Wikipedia, his official website, or follow him on X. To explore skepticism, check James Randi’s book.
