David Blaine Just Had a MAJOR Scare Doing a Magic Trick With a Bullet

Barbara Pavone
Jan 08, 2017

Magician David Blaine has made a name for himself by attempting some of the most dangerous stunts imaginable, but during his most recent primetime TV special, ABC’s David Blaine: Beyond Magic, the 43-year-old proved just how real the dangers of being a magician can be.

The show, which was filmed inside Las Vegas’s MGM Grand Garden Arena in front of 20,000 fans, including the ever-handsome David Beckham, featured Blaine’s much hyped-about bullet catching trick… which could have cost him his life.

In short, the trick, which Blaine successfully premiered way back in 2010, saw the magician pulling a string to fire a rifle in order to then catch the bullet in a metal cup that was attached to a mouth guard covering his gums. That didn’t happen, however, because the metal cup slipped out of place and things quickly took a turn for the worse.

“Time just started to move really slow,” Blaine recalls in the clip above, which shows the heart-stopping accident that’s still making us wince. “When the bullet struck the cup, there was a high-pitched ringing in my ears and I felt an impact on the back of my throat. I was sure the bullet went right through my head and that I was dead.”

Luckily, doctors found he was, in fact, alive and merely suffering from a lacerated throat, though it’s unclear whether he was hit by a piece of the mouthguard (which shattered) or something else. While the magician is expected to make a full recovery, it was enough to terrify his loved ones: According to The Daily Telegraph, David’s friends have refused to ever help him orchestrate the bullet catching trick again. Good call, guys! YIKES!

What do you make of David Blaine’s boundary-pushing tricks? Tweet us @BritandCo.

(h/t Daily Telegraph, photo via Brad Barket/Getty)

How to Survive Thanksgiving With Your Unwoke Relatives

Did you leave your family Thanksgiving dinner last year feeling like you were the one who got carved up and digested? You weren't alone. In an increasingly polarized sociological climate, family events where opinions differ can feel fraught with high stakes and conflicting moral obligations. And if you're already dreading Thanksgiving because all of the brawlin' that's sure to go down, you might be considering opting out of the festivities entirely.

In our Teach Me Something New podcast, Alexandra Carter, Columbia law professor and mediation expert, talks to Brit and Anj about the powers of persuasion to get the results you want in a conversation. The key to the Thanksgiving political discussion? Listening, asking open questions, and finding some common ground.

Here's what you can do to make it through Thanksgiving when your relatives just keep being problematic and things get awkward...

"I might say something like, 'I hear that you're concerned about national security and that's what led me to have this viewpoint.' So sometimes using a little bit of focusing on what you have in common can help you to have a civil conversation and not have anybody throwing mashed potatoes across the table," says Carter.

Here are more expert-backed tips for navigating the holiday awkwardness, even if it's just via Zoom. Make stuffing your face great again this Thanksgiving by implementing our seven-step plan.

Askar Abayev

1. Choose your battles ahead of time.

You're not going to change everyone's opinion about all of the things over the course of a meal and a football game. You might want to show up ready for a duel of words with your Facebook-meme-king cousin, but that's just going to put your opinionated family member on the offensive from the moment you walk in. Decide ahead of time if there's one issue that you really cannot keep your mouth shut about if it comes up, and have two or three talking points ready that clarify your position on that topic. If your hot button does get pushed, your talking points will help you keep from making things personal.

2. Confer with the host.

If you feel comfortable with the person that's organizing or hosting Thanksgiving, speak to him or her in advance about how you can be on Team Keep the Peace. Most people aren't keen on a political brouhaha breaking out around their dinner table, so they'll probably be relieved to hear that you're on board and willing to help make the day go smoothly for everyone. Brainstorm some ideas about seating arrangements or wholesome activities to fill the idle family time that can lead to trading barbs.

Element5 Digital

3. Make it a game.

Caitlin Bergstein, a Boston-based matchmaker and relationship expert for Three Day Rule, suggests a fun twist on the swear jar concept. “If your family is up for the challenge, you can even make it a game. Each time someone mentions something political, they have to put a dollar in a jar (or take a drink, depending on how your family celebrates the holiday). At the end of the night, that cash can be put aside for the next family get together!"

4. Have a moment of silence.

Sometimes the idea of a quiet table can be intimidating (all those chewing noises!), but encouraging a moment of reflection among your holiday guests can actually be transformative. Whether you observe several seconds of silence in honor of relatives you've lost, as a way to silently acknowledge your individual blessings, or as an act of prayer or meditation, you've hopefully brought the room back to focus on each other's company and the gift that it is to be together.

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5. Be an active listener.

If your one doggedlypersistent aunt can't let go of her obsession with the latest political scandal, reconsider what she's actually trying to tell you. Chances are, it's not just about what she saw on the news. “Assume that your polarizing relative actually probably just wants to connect, feel respected, and reduce their own anxiety about holiday gatherings, and interpret even difficult behavior as such," advises Mary Fisher, a Salt Lake City psychotherapist who specializes in family relationships. “Express the desire to connect while redirecting the conversation," Fisher recommends. Emphasize the fact that you're interested in protecting the time your family spends together. That can help soften the blow when you ask to instead hear them share a family memory or talk about a hobby you both share.

6. Disengage.

Remember that if angry words or offensive language start flying at you across the sweet potato pie, you don't have to respond. Have a script in mind to use, something like, “While I hear where you're coming from, I don't share your opinion, and I'm done talking about it today." Convey the message that you're quite clear on the matter being discussed, and you're not going to take the bait. You may have to repeat yourself several times, or you may choose to remain silent until things cool down around you. Either one is okay.

7. Duck out early.

If you feel like you have to retreat from the situation entirely, do it. One of the best things about being an adult is leaving when you want to leave. You don't have to subject yourself, your spouse, or your family to any kind of dialogue that is insulting, bigoted, or aggressive. Fisher shares these words of advice: “While we might think that the holidays are the time to resolve differences, they are actually the time to affirm and nurture connection, which can be an uphill battle with politically polarizing relatives." If you don't feel like a connection is being nurtured and the environment is not good for you to be in, say goodbye and make a break for it.

Looking for more holiday help this year? Be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter so you never miss a thing!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

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Uh Oh — Gisele Bündchen & Kids Are Having Thanksgiving Without Tom Brady

Gisele Bündchen is a household name, no matter who her partner is — but it's no secret the supermodel made waves when she split from her football star husband, Tom Brady, in 2022. It's clear she's not holding on to the past, though. After dating Joaquim Valente for the past two years, the couple is officially expecting their first child together! Here's everything we know about Gisele's growing family!

Is Gisele Bündchen pregnant?

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Gaia Herbs

Yes! According to PEOPLE, an inside source told the outlet that the 44-year-old supermodel is officially expecting her third child. This is her first baby with current boyfriend, Joaquim Valente. The source said, "Gisele and Joaquim are happy for this new chapter in their life and they're looking forward to creating a peaceful and loving environment for the whole family."

Recently, a source told PEOPLE that Gisele's “excited to embrace this new chapter openly," and she's “received many positive messages and congratulations" since the news broke. While the source also noted that Gisele "wanted to keep the news private for as long as possible," they also explained that she "feels good" right now. According to them, she seems focused on her health by doing pilates and other exercises, meditating, and eating well! We're glad to hear Gisele's taking care of herself — and her baby — first!

Who is Gisele Bündchen's boyfriend?

Instagram/gisele

Joaquim Valente is a jiu-jitsu professional at his family-owned studio, Valente Brothers. The 34-year-old continues a decades-long tradition of teaching this martial art to future generations — and his girlfriend!

These two have been linked together since 2022, but didn't start officially dating until June 2023 according to PEOPLE. In 2024, a source also told PEOPLE that this wasn't "a serious love affair," but the tides have clearly turned since then.

In March 2024, Gisele The New York Times, “This is the first time I am seeing someone that was a friend of mine first." She then noted, “It’s very different. It is very honest, and it’s very transparent.” She also was quick to deny that there was any overlap with her ex-husband, stressing that these types of rumors happen "to a lot of women" who "have the courage to leave an unhealthy relationship."

As for the most current state of Gisele and Joaquim's relationship? A source told Page Six, “Their chemistry together has always been there and they have a lot in common. They've been in love for a while." That being said, sources also told Page Sixthat they don't think the pair will get married "anytime soon." Despite Gisele being "thrilled" to welcome another child, her friends tell the outlet that the couple will just "live together for now."

Regardless, we're also thrilled for these two, and we hope their new child brings them so much joy!

How many kids does Gisele Bündchen have?

Instagram/gisele

Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady have two children together — Bejamin Rein (14) and Vivian Lake (11). According to Page Six, a source says that these two "really like" Joaquim Valente, as he's been living with them in Miami "for a while." We just know these two will be fabulous siblings to the new little one, given the way they show so much love to their parents!

When did Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady get divorced?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady officially divorced in 2022. However, according to Page Six, this all started back in 2020 when Tom wouldn't retire from the NFL — and according to a source from PEOPLE, their problems date back as long as 10 years! Regardless, it's clear Gisele's moved on to a new chapter in her life. Good for her!

Has Tom Brady said anything about Gisele Bündchen's new pregnancy?

Instagram/tombrady

While sources told TMZthat Gisele Bündchen told Tom Brady about her pregnancy before the news broke to the general public, other sources told Page Sixthat he only just found out "very recently" — and apparently, he didn't find out from Gisele. Sources explained to Page Six that the ex-spouses "talk when they have to." So I guess this situation didn't exactly qualify as having to talk...

Still, a source close to the situation explained to Page Six that Tom was "stunned" to find out about the news. “Tom knew that things were serious between Gisele and Joaquin but he never imagined they would be having a child together,” they said. "“It just wasn’t something that was on his radar. So when Gisele broke the news to him he was stunned, to say the least.”

Tom hasn't made an official statement about Gisele's pregnancy, but he did take to Instagram on October 28. The former football star posted an image of the sunset, three hearts, and The Chicks' cover of "Landslide." The Stevie Nicks original is all about the changes life brings, so Tom's seemingly alluding to the changes coming in his own life.

And that same Page Sixsource noted that Tom's “grown used to the idea and he’s happy for Gisele.” They said, “At the end of the day, Tom’s sole focus is on his children and his career. What Gisele decides to do with her own life is really none of his business.”

On November 12, 2024, Tom Brady spoke at the 2024 Fortune Global Forum — and while he didn't mention his ex-wife's current pregnancy, he did open up about what it's like to be his child, per TMZ. He said, All of the parents of the room know that being a parent is probably the hardest job all of us have, and we screw up a lot — and I've screwed up a lot as a parent." Despite that, Tom explained that he wants to be "dependable and consistent" for his kids, and let them explore the hobbies that excite them most — the same way his parents did. Still, Tom notes that it "sucks" when it comes to being his son in "so many ways," explaining that his kids "naturally are gonna be faced with their own challenges."

Now, with Thanksgiving right around the corner, Tom and Gisele allegedly "won't be celebrating Thanksgiving together," according to an exclusive Page Sixsource. Apparently, Gisele and Joaquim are taking her kids to Costa Rica for the holiday, and Tom is "supportive and that’s the arrangement he and Gisele have agreed upon.” What will the beloved QB do on Turkey Day? He's working, of course! Catch him on Fox for the Cowboys v. Giants game.

Whatever happens next, we hope that this modern family navigates this new chapter with grace and love!

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

This post has been updated.

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22 English Muffin Recipes That Will Make You Forget All About Bagels

Sure, savory muffins, taco pancakes, and avocado toast are delicious ways to start the day, but you're overlooking an oft-forgotten breakfast staple. English muffins are the perfect foundation for a filling meal, whether it's as a replacement for brioche in a French toast recipe or as the vehicle to deliver a mouth-watering egg sandwich. Keep scrolling for 22 recipes that will make you realize that English muffins are worthy of the spotlight and more than just breakfast.

Yummy English muffin recipes to replace your current sandwich habits

English Muffin French Toast

The Comfort of Cooking

Switch up the most basic of brunch dishes with this recipe that swaps brioche for English muffins to make a French toast that’s just begging for extra maple syrup and butter.

Spicy Chipotle Egg Breakfast Sandwiches

Aberdeen's Kitchen

This breakfast sandwich is so much more sophisticated than your standard Egg McMuffin. Bell pepper scrambled eggs, bacon, and a creamy chipotle sauce make this a morning meal you can feel proud of.

Grilled Shrimp English Muffin Burgers

I Wash You Dry

Juicy grilled shrimp burgers are way better than your standard barbecue fare. And once you’ve had a burger on an English muffin bun, you’ll never look back.

Mini Hawaiian English Muffin Pizza

Ease and Carrot

The next time you have a party, ditch the frozen snacks. These mini English muffin Hawaiian pizzas are perfect finger food.

Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Baker Bettie

If making hollandaise sauce last minute is a little too stressful for your mornings, look to this casserole. It has all the eggs Benedict flavor you love, but is easily made ahead of time.

Homemade Cranberry Walnut English Muffin

Cook Nourish Bliss

The best part about baking is you can customize your favorite dishes. This recipe gives plain English muffins a hearty makeover with the addition of dried cranberries and walnuts.

Barbecue Chicken English Muffin Pizza

Unicorn's in the Kitchen

Skip the take-out pizza and opt for this simple recipe that’s just as tasty as the real thing, with the added bonus of homemade flavor.

Crab Melts

Spicy Southern Kitchen

When topped with crab meat and cheese, English muffins make for a mean canapé too.

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Culinary Hill

Sometimes brunch just isn’t brunch-y enough — everything tastes too much like either breakfast or lunch. Not so with this mealtime fusion, combining a breakfast favorite with a barbecue classic.

Homemade Whole Wheat English Muffins

Jenni Field's Fearless in the Kitchen

Making your own English muffins is great for two reasons. They taste better than anything store-bought, and any recipe using the homemade version becomes a million times tastier.

Lemon Thyme English Muffin Bread

Cook Nourish Bliss

If you’ve never had English muffin in bread form, you’re in for a treat. It’s super-moist, toasts like a dream, and makes every sandwich taste just a little more special.

2-Minute Flourless English Muffins

The Big Man's World

English muffins in the microwave may sound strange, but trust. This version is gluten-free, vegan, oil-free, and sugar-free, but still gets nice and toasty, making them a great allergy-friendly option.

Homemade Cinnamon Raisin English Muffins

Food Fanatic

Sometimes the best part of baking is how it makes your house smell. These English muffins will fill your home with the scent of cinnamon, raisins, and baking bread.

Paleo Pumpkin English Muffins

Running to the Kitchen

Quick breakfast recipes are essential to have on hand. This two-minute Paleo pumpkin English muffin is made in the microwave, so you can have a tasty breakfast even on busy mornings.

Breakfast Burger

Well Plated

Hey, sometimes we all just want an excuse to have a burger for breakfast. This one is made with a turkey patty, bacon, and cheese, for a breakfast that will really fill you up.

Poached Egg and Prosciutto Brunch Sandwich

Salt and Lavender

Nothing hits the spot on the weekend like a brunch sandwich. This one, made on an English muffin and stuffed with a poached egg, prosciutto, and lemon garlic mayo, will make you glad it’s the weekend.

English Muffin Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Cups

No. 2 Pencil

Finding the perfect dish for a brunch party can feel like a chore — you don’t want to have to do a bunch of cooking after your guests arrive. This recipe for English muffin bacon, egg, and cheese cups solves that problem.

Baked Peach English Muffin French Toast

The PKP Way

Fruit-filled breakfasts always feel like a special treat. These English muffins, topped with baked rosemary peaches and cream cheese, will make you feel like a queen.

Make-Ahead English Muffin Melts

Julie's Eats & Treats

A fast breakfast doesn’t have to mean an apple or granola bar on the go. These make-ahead English muffins ensure that you can eat a hot and cheesy meal, even on busy mornings.

Game Day Mini Pizzas

Brit + Co

While ordering multiple kinds of pies can get pricey really fast, our mini English muffin pizzas are an all-around win. From tangy Buffalo chicken to a meatless Margherita, these healthier budget-friendly mini pies will be a hit with everyone - just start with a base of sauce, cheese, and muffin and then try one of these variations. Click for the more recipe details!

Pepperoni:

(serves 6)

  • pepperoni sticks, sliced into thin rounds
  • optional toppings: hot banana pepper rings

Buffalo Chicken:

(serves 6)

  • about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot
  • optional toppings: crumbled blue cheese or feta and chopped celery leaves

Pesto Chicken:

(serves 6)

  • about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
  • 3-4 Tablespoons of basil pesto
  • optional topping: crumbled feta

Veggie Lover’s:

(serves 6)

  • button mushrooms, sliced
  • green bell pepper, diced
  • red onion, thinly sliced or diced
  • cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • green olives, sliced

Margherita Inspired:

(serves 6)

  • cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • fresh basil leaves (if they’re large, you can slice them into ribbons or roughly chop them)

Greek Inspired:

(serves 6)

  • kalamata olives, sliced
  • red onion, thinly sliced or diced
  • cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • crumbled feta

Bao English Muffins 

Thomas Breads

Made with pork shoulder, try this slightly sweet Asian-style recipe from the classic English muffin brand.

Cherry Macadamia English Muffin French Toast

With Salt and Wit

Baked French toast is always a breakfast favorite. This recipe ups the ante, swapping bread for English Muffins and adding macadamia nuts and fresh cherries for flavor.

Hope you found an english muffin recipe to inspire your next craving! Share your recipe pics with us @BritandCo and find more inspiration in our baking courses on B+C Classes!

This post was updated.
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