Norwalk Resident Wins 'Star Search' TV Competition, $500K Grand Prize

TJ Salta, a magician and mentalist from Norwalk, wowed judges and viewers to be named the season's grand champion.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 24-year-old magician and mentalist from Norwalk, Connecticut named TJ Salta was crowned the grand champion of the rebooted "Star Search" TV competition, winning a $500,000 grand prize. Salta impressed judges and viewers over the past four weeks with his high-energy, cinematic magic and mentalist acts, ultimately defeating eight other finalists to take home the top prize.

Why it matters

Salta's win on the popular Netflix competition show "Star Search" brings national attention to the talented performers coming out of the Norwalk area. The $500,000 grand prize also provides a major career boost for the young magician, who has already made a name for himself headlining shows in Las Vegas and performing at high-profile events.

The details

During the finale episode, Salta first competed against comedian Janine Harouni, impressing the judges with an act involving disappearing and reappearing rings, as well as a falcon. He then advanced to the top four finalists, where he competed against fellow magician Harry Merlin Piper, singer Steven "Spud" Howard, and performance duo Duo Vespertilio. Ultimately, Salta was crowned the grand champion after viewers around the world voted him as the winner.

  • Salta competed on "Star Search" over the past four weeks.
  • The live finale aired this week on Netflix.

The players

TJ Salta

A 24-year-old magician and mentalist from Norwalk, Connecticut who was crowned the grand champion of the rebooted "Star Search" TV competition, winning a $500,000 prize.

Sarah Michelle Gellar

One of the judges on "Star Search".

Chrissy Teigen

One of the judges on "Star Search".

Jelly Roll

One of the judges on "Star Search".

Anthony Anderson

The host of "Star Search".

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“One person is going home with half a million dollars. That's starting to become more real.”

— TJ Salta (Netflix)

“I've been here since day one. I fought challenger after challenger after challenger. I feel like my whole life has led up to this moment, and falling short would be devastating.”

— TJ Salta (Netflix)

“It's such an honor, especially to have been here since day one. Just to share my passion five times with you guys and have the support and just bring happiness through the world, that is why I believe I was put here. I'm just grateful.”

— TJ Salta (Netflix)

“This is real magic right here. I love you guys.”

— TJ Salta (Netflix)

The takeaway

Salta's victory on "Star Search" showcases the incredible talent emerging from the Norwalk area and provides a major career boost for the young magician, who has already made a name for himself in Las Vegas and at high-profile events. His emotional win and $500,000 prize money highlight the power of pursuing one's passions and the impact that can have on both the performer and the audience.