All eyes were on "America's Best Beach” as world-renowned illusionist Criss Angel performed his most daring stunt yet – escaping from the implosion of the historic Spyglass Resort on Clearwater Beach [1] last Wednesday night. The escape aired during the first live episode of "Criss Angel Mindfreak. [2]"

With much fanfare and a detailed account of how the illusionist planned to beat the clock as 4,500 tons of cement came crashing to the ground, spectators watched in anticipation as Angel had trouble getting his handcuffs undone and then had to crash through the glass door in order to gain access to the building.

After this, accounts vary as to what exactly happened, but one thing is certain: Criss Angel appeared on the ground, safe and sound, in front of the dusty rubble that was once the Spyglass Resort.

The implosion of the Spyglass Resort makes way for the new Clearwater Beach Resort and Hotel. It is part of a $1 billion redevelopment of Clearwater, including the $30 million Beach Walk project, which opened recently.