How the Classic Pepper’s Ghost Illusion Is at the Center of the Technology of Celebrity Holograms

Hologram Band Pepper's Ghost

Fascinated by the sudden booming business of celebrity holograms, Wired UK spoke with two rival companies, Pulse Evolution and Hologram USA, about their respective philosophies around the virtual reincarnation of dead celebrities. While the priorities differ vastly between the two companies, both acknowledge that the classic Pepper’s Ghost Illusion, a technique first implemented in 1862, is at the root of their technology.

Whether its Tupac, Michael Jackson or some other revered artist, dead celebrities reincarnated as holograms are big business – and, for two startups looking for fame and fortune, a source of untapped millions.

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.