COLLINS KEY

Biography:

Collins Key, born on May 9, 1996, in Arizona, USA, is a multifaceted American entertainer renowned for his work as a magician, YouTuber, and actor. His innovative approach to magic and engaging digital content has garnered him a substantial following worldwide.​

Early Life and Family

Collins was born to Steven and Anne Key and has a younger brother, Devan Key, who frequently collaborates with him on various projects. His passion for performance emerged early; at just four years old, he participated in a Shakespearean play, igniting his lifelong interest in entertainment. By the age of 12, Collins had transformed a simple birthday party into an unforgettable magic experience, marking the beginning of his journey into the world of illusion. Remarkably, after only nine months of practicing magic, he was accepted into the prestigious Junior Program at the Hollywood Magic Castle, an esteemed institution for budding magicians. ​

Rise to Fame on "America's Got Talent"

In 2013, at the age of 16, Collins's unique blend of magic and charisma caught the attention of the producers of NBC's "America's Got Talent" (AGT). His performances captivated both the judges and the audience, earning him a spot as a finalist in the show's eighth season. This achievement made him the first magician to reach the finals in AGT history, leading to his moniker as "Magic’s First Pop Star." Following his success on AGT, Collins joined the show's 36-city national tour, performing live across the United States. ​

Touring with Demi Lovato

In 2014, Collins expanded his reach by opening for pop singer Demi Lovato on her 30-city "Neon Lights" tour. Sharing the stage with acts like Fifth Harmony, Little Mix, and Cher Lloyd, he performed nightly in front of audiences ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 fans. His role extended beyond magic; he also served as the event's host, further showcasing his versatility as an entertainer. ​

YouTube Career and Digital Content Creation

Transitioning to digital platforms, Collins launched his YouTube channel, which has amassed nearly 24 million subscribers and over 6.7 billion total views as of March 2024. Collaborating frequently with his brother Devan, Collins produces a variety of family-friendly content, including magic tricks, challenges, DIY projects, and comedic sketches. His creative and engaging videos have solidified his status as a leading digital creator. ​

Collaborations and Media Appearances

Beyond his own channel, Collins has collaborated with notable creators such as Brent Rivera and the Merrell Twins, expanding his influence within the digital community. In 2017, he was the first digital creator to produce interstitial content for the Disney Channel, leading into their Fall Season Friday Night Lineup. That same year, Collins delivered a TEDx talk at the University of California, Santa Barbara, sharing insights from his journey as a magician and content creator. ​

Awards and Recognition

Collins's innovative work has earned him multiple accolades. His interactive web series "The Disappearing Girl," created in partnership with AT&T, received several awards, including a Shorty Award, an AdWeek Arc Award, a Cannes Lions Award, and a Streamy Award. Additionally, he has been nominated for multiple Teen Choice Awards, reflecting his widespread appeal among younger audiences. ​

Personal Life and Interests

Despite his public persona, Collins maintains a relatively private personal life. He continues to collaborate closely with his brother Devan, and their strong familial bond is evident in their joint projects. Collins's dedication to creating family-friendly content underscores his commitment to positive and inclusive entertainment.​

Conclusion

Collins Key's journey from a young magician to a multifaceted entertainer exemplifies his creativity, dedication, and adaptability. Through his innovative magic performances, engaging digital content, and collaborative projects, he has captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in contemporary entertainment.