Overview:
In the 1980s, America was gripped by the “Satanic Panic,” when occult practices were stigmatized and feared. Fast forward to 2025, and magick, astrology, and witchcraft are billion-dollar industries embraced by millions. This article by Nathan Dube explores how magick moved from the shadows to the mainstream, the role celebrities and media played in fueling the movement, and why esoteric practices are more socially accepted today than ever before.
Today, the American mainstream has fully embraced magick and the occult. This is a far cry from where the country was in the 80s during the satanic panic. Back then, admitting that you read tarot cards or practiced astrology could even spark a police investigation.
In 2025, however, magick has become commonplace for everyday people. Astrology, witchcraft, and spiritual services have each become billion-dollar industries. For staunchly religious communities, this surge is concerning. But for older generations of practitioners, it’s a breath of fresh air — a chance to step out of the “broom closet” publicly and professionally.
What is Magick?
Magick (with a “k”) is not stage illusion performed by entertainers like David Blaine or David Copperfield. Instead, it’s a spiritual or psychological practice intended to manifest change. Aleister Crowley, one of history’s most infamous magicians, defined magick as “the art and science of causing change to occur in conformity with the will.”
From lighting candles to writing rituals, magick is about using symbolic actions to influence outcomes. Modern authors like Alan Chapman have explained it in simplified ways, while celebrities like Jim Carrey have demonstrated “manifestation” rituals — such as writing himself a $10 million check long before achieving success, later attributing his breakthrough to both belief and intention.
Celebrities Fuel Public Fascination
From Lana Del Rey openly speaking about hexing Donald Trump, to Gisele Bündchen identifying as a witch, celebrities have helped normalize occult practices. Their millions of fans often follow suit, dabbling in rituals, astrology, or manifestation techniques. Even musicians like Ozzy Osbourne — whether practicing or not — inspired occult interest through cultural association
This celebrity influence has dramatically shifted public opinion, making magick appear less taboo and more aspirational.
The Digital Magick Boom
Beyond Hollywood, podcasting, YouTube, and online learning communities have also fueled the magick surge. Platforms like Rune Soup, founded by Gordon White, built global occult communities with thousands of members. Podcasts such as Lux Occult, Occult of Personality, and Magical Experiments have further amplified the reach of esoteric teachings.
What began as fringe blogs has grown into multimillion-dollar ecosystems, supported by both curiosity and demand. With streaming shows, podcasts, and social media trends, magick has secured its place in the mainstream.
Conclusion
From police suspicion in the 1980s to billion-dollar industries in 2025, the rise of magick is undeniable. Fueled by celebrities, new media, and growing communities, esoteric practices have shifted from taboo to trendsetting — a cultural transformation that shows no signs of slowing down.
Sources
- Britannica — Overview of Aleister Crowley
- Bustle — Celebrities who openly practice witchcraft and occult traditions
- Oprah Interview Archive — Jim Carrey on Manifestation
- Rune Soup Official Site — Runesoup.com
- Occult Podcasts List – Lux Occult
