David Blaine’s Drowned Alive Stunt (2006)

Magician David Blaine has pushed the limits of endurance with astonishing feats: being buried alive for seven days, frozen for 61 hours, balancing 90 feet high on a pole for 35 hours, and suspended for 44 days. His latest challenge involves being submerged in a human aquarium for an entire week.

Before entering the water, Blaine stated, “My system is completely empty, so I don’t have to use the bathroom. I have a catheter for emergencies, but I don’t plan on using it.” He prepared for this intense experience in 2,000 gallons of 96-degree saltwater through rigorous training with Navy SEALs, focusing on both physical and mental resilience.

Blaine explained, “The Navy SEALs emphasize mental and spiritual endurance. They teach you to overcome physical pain by finding a mental escape.”

Defying Death

If he successfully completes the seven-day challenge, Blaine will handcuff himself to 150 pounds of chains and attempt to break the world record for breath-holding, currently set at nearly nine minutes. This daring stunt will be broadcast live on ABC on May 8.

“I must escape from the chains, or I will drown live on air,” he warned. Blaine has lost 50 pounds while training for this feat, practicing breath control by holding his breath for extended periods throughout the day.

“I would wake up and hold my breath for 48 minutes each hour, breathing for just one minute in between,” he shared. “This process elevates CO2 levels, forcing your body to work hard to expel it, much like a marathon runner.”

The final escape is anticipated to be the most challenging aspect. Currently, Blaine is relaxing in his fish tank outside Lincoln Center in Manhattan, where onlookers can watch. At 6-foot-1, he appears about 33% larger due to the tank’s unique light refraction.

After 20 hours in the tank, Blaine remarked, “So far, not bad. My hands are mangled, and my feet feel like pins and needles. By week’s end, my skin will be fragile and delicate.” To alleviate discomfort, he wears gloves filled with a petroleum jelly-like cream.

Surviving on a tube-fed diet of Gatorade, Pedialyte, and water, Blaine also struggles with sleep due to the water pressure causing headaches. Despite the challenges, he expressed enjoyment in the experience, stating, “This is the most fun of all my stunts. I almost feel guilty for how good it feels to be in here.”