The reporter notes that Mr. Copperfield "is embarrassed about his plane. And his islands, of which he has four." His interview style may at times appear mechanical but it is always offered with enthusiasm.

This should not be a surprise, he must give thousands of interviews each year around the world.

Here at the things he would like you to know:

First: He is approachable and "very guy-next-door."

That is accurate. We have met Mr. Copperfield at several points in his career and he has always been available, considerate, and actually seems to listen to comments or questions from fans. "I think people feel comfortable coming up to me," he says.

Second: He has made mistakes on stage.

While most magicians know mistakes or trick failure are inevitable aspects of performing magic -- especially whilst touring hundreds of dates around the world each year -- this is probably news to his non-magic fans.

"Things can go wrong all the time," he says cheerfully. "It keeps me alert."

Third: You probably will not learn his secrets on the Internet.

YouTube may be great to "scrutinize clips of Copperfield's shows for clues to his tricks." But chances are you will not discover his methods from on-line video clips or message boards. "People make guesses all the time. There's stuff on the Internet you can find ... If the guesses become good guesses, I have to change [how I do a trick]."

Fourth: He would like to be a director - one day.

He is a member of the prestigious Director's Guild, "directs many of his own television specials. He also acted briefly (and 'horribly'), playing a magician in the 1980 slasher film 'Terror Train,' an experience he still recalls with a shudder."

Fifth: He has the keys to the most exclusive vacation place on the planet.

For a little more than $175,000 a week, you can visit his private island chain. "It feels weird. I've got four islands right now. It seems impossible that a human being is allowed to have a beach that's two miles long to himself. It's really weird, but I feel very lucky. I work very, very hard."

Mr. Copperfield will present his award-winning show of magic, stories, and impossibilities tonight at 6pm and 9pm at the beautiful Rosemont Theatre (just outside of Chicago proper and right near the O'Hare Airport). This show is not to be missed, so if you are in the area, do not miss it.

- Provided by InsideMagic