David Blaine: Drowned Alive

David Blaine was submerged for seven days and seven nights in a 10,000 pound water-filled sphere displayed for the public's viewing in front of NYC’s Lincoln Center. In this special titled Drowned Alive, Blaine survives for a week using tubes for air and liquids for nutrition. He concludes the stunt by attempting to break the world record of 8 minutes, 58 seconds for underwater breath-holding. Producers requested that Blaine attempt to simultaneously free himself from handcuffs and chains. At 7 minutes and 8 seconds, Blaine begins experiencing convulsions. He is finally pulled out at 7 minutes and 30 seconds after losing consciousness. Celebrities such as Chris Rock, Courtney and David Arquette, Anthony Kiedis are among the many spectators who filled Lincoln Center to support Blaine. In addition to the live event, the special features scenes of Blaine's innovative and amazing street magic. A group of children circle around Blaine as his untied shoelaces magically tie themselves back together. Blaine also visits the locker room of the NBA all-star game and performs for Kobe Bryant, Yao Ming, and Steve Nash. During his visit to the maximum security prison in Angola, Blaine bends the jail bars in front of a group of prisoners, stunning them with his "superhuman" strength. The show also includes clips of the strenuous training sessions Blaine took part in with the United States Navy Seals to prepare for his underwater challenge. Blaine even shares an intimate interview with legendary daredevil Evel Knievel. Drowned Alive aired on ABC television May 8, 2006, with the highest primetime rating for the 8-10pm time slot.