Nevo Abutbul Brings the Wow Factor

Nevo Abutbul is the world’s youngest professional mentalist, known for his extraordinary ability to blend psychology, intuition, and performance into deeply personal, unforgettable experiences. He first captured international attention at just 13 as a finalist on Israel’s Got Talent, and by 21 has already performed on major stages around the world, including a standout residency in Dubai. His work transcends traditional magic, focusing instead on emotional connection, awareness, and moments of genuine wonder.

A familiar face on television, Nevo has stunned audiences with bold predictions and mind-reading performances on The Today Show, E!, Good Day New York, and KTLA Morning News. Whether reading subtle cues, predicting outcomes before they happen, or engaging audiences in real time, his performances are rooted in discipline, instinct, and presence. Grounded by faith, family, and a deep sense of purpose, Nevo approaches his craft not just as entertainment, but as a way to leave people feeling inspired, connected, and reminded that the world still holds mystery.

Bello: You began studying mentalism at just nine years old. What was the moment that made you realize this wasn’t just a hobby but something you wanted to master?

Nevo: The moment I realized it was more than a hobby was when I saw what it did to people emotionally. Not just the surprise itself, but the smiles, the laughter, and the feeling that something good had happened to them in that moment. I understood that I had the ability to leave people with something positive, something that stayed with them even after the moment passed. From there, it stopped being a game and became a real desire to grow, to evolve, and to use this gift to bring something good into people’s lives.

Bello: Mentalism sits at the intersection of psychology, intuition, and performance. How would you explain what you do to someone seeing you for the first time?

Nevo: For me, it’s the combination of all five senses coming together to create the illusion of a sixth sense. It’s about understanding people, reading situations, noticing the smallest details, and turning them into an experience that feels personal and unexpected. There’s sensitivity in it, awareness, and the ability to create moments that stay with people. My goal isn’t to impress, but to make people feel something real, a sense of wonder that pulls them into the moment.

Bello: You’ve appeared on shows like The Today Show, E!, and Good Day New York. Is there a moment that has stayed with you in particular?

Nevo: The moments that stay with me are when people react from the heart. When they’re genuinely shocked, laughing, trying to understand what just happened. But beyond that, it’s when people come up to me afterward and say the experience touched them or made them see things a little differently. Knowing that my talent can bring joy, emotion, and even a small shift in perspective is something I carry with me everywhere.

Bello: Your residency in Dubai marked a unique cultural collaboration. What did that experience teach you about connection across cultures?

Nevo: That experience strengthened my belief that curiosity and wonder are universal. Art connects people, regardless of background or beliefs. I watched people who were completely different from one another laugh together, be amazed together, and truly enjoy themselves for 75 minutes. That’s a powerful thing. It made me believe even more that what I do can create meaningful connections in places people might not always expect.

Bello: Mentalism requires focus and discipline. What does your preparation look like before a major performance?

Nevo: There’s a lot of repetition until everything lives naturally in the body. But preparation is also mental. I need to be sharp, calm, and fully present. Reading people, noticing body language, understanding energy in the room all require clarity. That’s why I try to arrive without noise in my head. Sometimes I meditate before a show to ground myself. When I step on stage like that, I can truly connect with the moment and with the audience.

Photography by Dedo

Bello: Many people wonder where skill ends and intuition begins. How much of mentalism is technique, and how much is instinct?

Nevo: Technique is the foundation. Anyone can learn to play football, but no one will pass or move like Messi. It’s the same here. You can learn the tools, the structures, the methods, but instinct, timing, and presence can’t be copied. They’re built over time. When the technique is fully internalized, you’re free to trust your instincts, react in real time, and let the moment lead.

Bello: Style plays an important role in how performers are perceived. How does fashion influence the way you step on stage or in front of a camera?

Nevo: I perform for very different audiences. Sometimes it’s 17 year olds, and sometimes it’s CEOs, leaders, or people in their fifties and beyond. I adapt to the audience, but my style always stays timeless. Something refined yet accessible, never overdone. Somewhere between old money and streetwear, I’ve found a balance that feels true to me. Clean lines, thoughtful silhouettes, and a presence that supports who I am and the world I’m creating on stage.

Bello: At just 21, you’ve already achieved what many only dream of. How do you stay grounded?

Nevo: I stay grounded by remembering why I started. I was a kid with a big dream, wanting to reach far and bring joy to people on the world’s biggest stages. My family and close friends are always there for me, supporting and grounding me. I’m also a man of faith. I truly believe that this gift was given to me by God, and I thank Him for it every day. That awareness keeps me humble and reminds me to stay connected to what truly matters.

Bello: When people leave a Nevo Abutbul show, what do you hope stays with them?

I hope they leave with something in their heart. Not just wondering how it was done, but feeling a sense of wonder that stays with them. A reminder that the world can still surprise us, that there’s room for imagination and emotion. And if they walk away with a new thought about themselves or what’s possible, then for me, it’s much more than entertainment.

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