Who died of a ruptured appendix on Halloween?
© University Blog Service, University of Texas
Harry Houdini, the legendary escape artist and illusionist, died on Halloween in 1926 from complications of a ruptured appendix, adding an eerie twist to his already mystifying legacy. Days before his death, Houdini was reportedly punched in the abdomen by a college student testing Harry’s claim that he could withstand powerful blows …. a moment many believe may have worsened an undiagnosed case of appendicitis. After refusing medical care, Houdini’s condition rapidly deteriorated, and he passed away at the age of 52.
You read it here first, kids. 😎
Happy Halloween!
NAR©2025
This is “Houdini” by Kate Bush
All text and graphics are copyright for Nancy Richy and are not to be used without permission. NAR©2017-present.
The Elephant's Trunk 
I did not know that! What a weird twist of fate.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Indeed! What a way to go!
LikeLiked by 1 person
How ironic that’s how he died. Like you said, people like Houdini do grow to feel that they are invincible. I did not know it was Halloween either. It’s good to learn something every day. Thank you! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Brenda. I like these little bits of trivia. You never know when this question might come up during family game night. 😀
LikeLike
It’s amazing how often these people who live dangerous lives, die of something so preventable!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good point, Dale. After a while I think they start to believe they are invincible.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Seriously!
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fascinating fact, and fabulous song from ‘Kate’, Nancy
LikeLiked by 1 person
So many flirtations with death and it was his appendix that did him in. Ironic! Thanks, dear Ivor; delighted to know you enjoyed the trivia and the song. 🥰🎶
LikeLiked by 1 person
You learn something new every day, Nancy 🎶📚
LikeLiked by 1 person
This might help me the next time we play Trivial Pursuit with the family! 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
He was a legend but no one is indestructible!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so right, Sadje!
LikeLiked by 1 person
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know they still “celebrate” on the anniversary of his death.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, I’ve heard of the “Broken Wand Ceremony”. Thanks, Lisa.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very interesting isn’t it. We’ve seen some documentaries on his life and death, so I knew this. Still good to remember him, such a performer! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely! He was groundbreaking in the stunts he performed. Amazing escape artist. Thanks, Barbara.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I didn’t know he died on Halloween – great to hear that – wonderful 🙌
LikeLiked by 1 person
Quite fitting, no? Thanks, Ange.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow! Wonder why he refused medical help.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Maybe he didn’t know how badly hurt he was. Perhaps he thought it would be a sign of weakness. We’ll never know. Thanks, Joy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
True, about him possibly thinking it would be a sign of weakness. After all, he was the great Houdini!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Exactly!
LikeLike
Amazing 💜
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a great performer. He paved the way for all who followed. Thanks!
LikeLike
Right here in Michigan
LikeLiked by 1 person
Small world, Keith.
LikeLiked by 1 person