Born William Wallace in India, Ali Bongo has established a reputation as the magician’s magician.

As well as performing in his own right, Ali Bongo has, like Jonathan Creek, helped devise magic tricks and shows for the likes of Paul Daniels and David Nixon.

Over the years he has also helped actors learn how to perform illusions on screen, for such shows as Ace of Wands, Doctor Who and The Tomorrow People. In the latter he also appeared on-screen, playing Mustaf in the adventure The Revenge of Jedikiah.

David Renwick has gone on record to say that Ali Bongo’s work as a magic advisor inspired the character of Jonathan Creek. We’re not sure if Ali solves crime in his spare time, though!

Ali and his business partner Andrew Eborn have set up a production company to bring more magic to television, and they have recently recorded a pilot show.

Ali is currently Vice President of The Magic Circle. Amongst the many tasks he performs for the organisation is running its youth evenings.