New Blaine stunt to air live on 'Oprah'

David Blaine will attempt to break a world record live on The Oprah Winfrey Show next week.

The illusionist wants to break the record for holding his breath while underwater on the April 30 episode of the chatshow.

A press release from the TV show said: "Facing the threats of heart failure, brain damage and even death, Blaine will endeavour to hold his breath for more than 16 minutes and 14 seconds - the record currently held by Tom Sietas - while submerged in a sphere-shaped aquarium filled with more than 2,500 gallons of water."

The 35-year-old's previous stunts have included him surviving inside a glass box held above the Thames without food or nutrients for 44 days, and spending seven days buried under a 3-ton water-filled tank.

He is rumoured to be planning a challenge for later this year which will see him stay awake for 13 days.