There is a certain gravity to a wedding morning. The air is thick with anticipation, the scent of expensive lilies, and the nervous energy of a groom waiting for the “first look”, that cinematic moment when he sees his bride in her gown for the very first time. It is a moment usually reserved for tears, soft music, and romantic whispers.
However, for Eric Magelsen, that moment involved a lot more tulle than he expected, and significantly more Benson Boone.
The “Beautiful Things” singer, currently one of the most recognisable voices in global pop, decided to take a break from topping charts to revisit his roots: being a world-class prankster. In a move that has since gone viral, Boone donned a floor-length white wedding dress, a delicate veil, and a full bouquet to surprise his childhood best friend during his formal wedding photoshoot at the Utah State Capitol.
A High-Stakes Surprise
The prank was a coordinated effort, proving that while Boone might be a solo artist on stage, he is a team player when it comes to mischief. With the blessing of the actual bride, Sydni Burrup, and the technical expertise of photographer Ashlyn Harrop, the stage was set for a monumental bait-and-switch.
As Magelsen stood with his back turned, presumably contemplating his future and the beauty of his soon-to-be wife, he felt the traditional tap on the shoulder. He turned around, heart likely racing, only to be met with the grinning face of the 23-year-old musician. Boone wasn’t just wearing the dress; he was “fully committed to the bit,” accessorised with silver jewellery and a diva-esque confidence that only a best man (and a global superstar) could pull off.
“One of the Best Pranks Ever”
According to footage shared by Hannah Kate Films, the initial shock on Magelsen’s face lasted only a second before dissolving into pure hysterics. Despite Boone’s meteoric rise to fame, it seems the bond between the two remains firmly rooted in their childhood in Salt Lake City, where they spent years trying to out-prank one another.
“Benson and I have been best friends since we were babies,” Magelsen told People. “I probably should have seen this coming, but I had absolutely no idea.”
In a display of his characteristic wit, Boone didn’t break character. “You look so handsome!” he told his longtime friend. “Eric, this is going to be the biggest day of our lives, and I just want to let you know there’s no one else I’d rather be with.” Magelsen, proving he can match Boone’s energy, cheekily replied that he was the “luckiest man on earth.”
The Real First Look
While the photos of Boone in a bridal gown (provided by the bride’s mother, no less) are certainly treasures for the mantlepiece, the day did eventually settle into its intended romantic rhythm. Magelsen and Burrup eventually shared their actual first look (presumably with fewer facial hair-related surprises) and officially tied the knot last month.
