Abracadabra! Dutch Magician Fined for Copyright Infringement

A magician has been fined (euro) 12,205 ($16,725) by a Dutch court for putting a rival’s trick up his sleeve and trying to pass it off as his own.

Hans Klok was sued for copyright infringement over a routine in which he fights with a stubborn butler, first apparently reaching through his body to grab a glass of water off a tray, then smacking off his head momentarily.

Magician Rafael van Herck, Klok’s former sidekick, said he developed the bit and took the case to court.

Klok argued the tricks are no secret in Las Vegas – one was even used by Siegfried & Roy. But the court ruled Van Herck’s combination is unique.

Klok, whose long blond hair is constantly swept by a wind that seems to arise from nowhere, said he will adjust his act after Wednesday’s ruling.