Last Days

On October 31, 1926, Harry Houdini — the world-famous escape artist and illusionist whose death-defying feats made him one of the first global superstars of modern entertainment — passed away at the age of 52. Born Erik Weisz to a poor immigrant family, Houdini rose from carnivals and dime museums to international fame through relentless discipline, physical endurance, and an obsession with mastering the impossible. He stunned audiences with escapes from straitjackets, locked safes, water-filled tanks, and prison cells, redefining magic as a test of human will as much as illusion. Beyond the stage, Houdini became a fierce skeptic, dedicating his later years to exposing fraudulent spiritualists and defending truth over spectacle. With unmatched showmanship, precision, and daring, Houdini transformed magic into a mass-culture phenomenon and set the standard for every escape artist who followed, leaving behind a legacy built on fearlessness, control, and the relentless pursuit of wonder.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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In this Look Back episode of Last Days, we revisit the life and final years of Amy Winehouse. A once-in-a-generation talent whose voice and songwriting reshaped modern soul.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On October 5, 2004, Rodney Dangerfield — the legendary comedian whose trademark line “I don’t get no respect” became one of the most iconic catchphrases in entertainment history — passed away at the age of 82. Rising from years of struggle in comedy clubs and working odd jobs, Dangerfield broke through with a relentless, self-deprecating style that reshaped stand-up comedy and influenced generations of comics. He became a household name through classic films like Caddyshack, Back to School, and Easy Money, while also earning acclaim for dramatic performances that revealed unexpected depth beyond his comedic persona. With razor-sharp timing, fearless honesty, and an everyman relatability, Dangerfield turned insecurity into art and failure into punchlines. By the time of his passing, he was revered not just as a comedian, but as a pioneer who transformed personal frustration into universal laughter and forever changed the language of comedy.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On May 18, 2017, Chris Cornell — the iconic singer, songwriter, and one of the most powerful voices in rock history — passed away at the age of 52. Rising to prominence as the frontman of Soundgarden, Cornell helped define the Seattle grunge movement of the late 1980s and 1990s with his soaring vocal range and emotionally raw songwriting. He later expanded his legacy with Audioslave and Temple of the Dog, while also building a deeply personal solo career that showcased his versatility across rock, acoustic, and orchestral styles. Songs like “Black Hole Sun,” “Fell on Black Days,” and “Like a Stone” cemented his reputation as both a fearless artist and a poetic storyteller. By the time of his passing, Cornell was revered not just as a rock star, but as a generational voice whose music gave shape to pain, beauty, and vulnerability for millions around the world.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Eric Colley

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As we celebrate the New Year, Derek and Jason take the opportunity to reflect on some of the most memorable celebrities we didn't have a chance to cover on the podcast, focusing on their extraordinary lives and legacies.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman, Derek Kaufman

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