Brent Braun Performs “Position Impossible” on Penn & Teller: Fool Us

Magic consultant Brent Braun steps out from behind the scenes to perform his impossible card-at-any-number routine, “Position Impossible,” for Penn and Teller.

Braun begins the performance by asking audience members to shuffle decks of playing cards they received before the show. On his command, the entire audience throws those decks toward the stage, creating one of the funniest—and most chaotic—openings seen on Penn & Teller: Fool Us. One deck is selected from the dozens scattered across the floor.

Two audience volunteers then join Braun onstage. One freely selects and remembers a playing card, while the other names any number between one and 52. The cards remain in full view as Braun slowly counts through the deck to the chosen position.

The volunteer selects the challenging number 41, forcing Braun to maintain the audience’s attention during a long, deliberate count. He uses humor and storytelling to build anticipation before shifting the tone with a heartfelt reflection on growing up in Henryville, Indiana, and receiving the opportunity to perform for Penn and Teller.

When the selected card is finally named as the three of hearts, the card waiting at position 41 provides the routine’s remarkable conclusion.

Penn Jillette praised Braun’s ability to take the audience from a hilarious opening to a finale that made everyone genuinely care about the outcome. He also complimented Braun for resisting the temptation to rush through the lengthy count, describing his patience and theatrical control as beautiful.

Although Braun did not fool Penn and Teller, “Position Impossible” demonstrated why successful magic depends on much more than the secret. His performance combined an impossible premise, memorable staging, comedy, suspense and an emotional connection with the audience.

Braun is also known for his work as a professional magic consultant, helping other entertainers improve the technical and theatrical sides of their performances. His Fool Us appearance gave him the opportunity to move into the spotlight and pursue a dream of his own.