Michael Johnson, the son of Turner Sports broadcaster Ernie Johnson, has died, his father announced Friday night. EJ is 62, just seven inches shorter than his father Magic. So, if you're wondering what exactly happened back then, we've got you covered. He was given the nickname by a sports writer who had just seen the 15-year-old prepster notch 36 points, 16 rebounds. One of the most important contributions Johnson has made to people with HIV is making people more aware and understanding of the virus. https://t.co/RQM9OCSd77. EJ Johnson has shown the world that he is an unstoppable force. "High ART costs are among many structural barriers that lead to poor treatment access and adherence, contributing to suboptimal HIV outcomes in the United States," according to a report published by JAMA Internal Medicine (opens in new tab) in 2020. In 2015, Caitlyn Jenner infamously debuted her transition on the cover of Vanity Fair. According to research and estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (opens in new tab), as of 2019 about 1.18 million Americans have HIV, and 13 percent of them are undiagnosed. There was one drug then, now we have 30-something drugs.". at that point. In the photos, EJ Johnson looks confident in an outfit that captures his fashion-forward personality. I feel like this is the body Im supposed to be in. EJ put out a statement reading, Im going to make this clear to everyone there will be no mourning post because Im not going to reduce a 25yr friendship to 1 Instagram post. Spencer Lieb is a HIV/AIDS research coordinator with The AIDS Institute. "We were just so astonished at the things he was saying, and not just that he brought my dad into it, but the fact that he was being just blatantly racist. We've come across little random tidbits maybe, obviously when I'm in different parts of the world and other countries, things are different," he claimed. Johnson Reveals 100+ Weight Loss on Good Day NY! About a year later, EJ had a similar heart-to-heart chat with his father. Randy Chrisley Is Todd Chrisley's Brother Who Was Diagnosed with Cancer in 2014, Johnny Depp's Weight Gain & Changes in Appearance over the Years, 'Whos the Boss? Today. "It was hard because I loved her so much and I hated to hurt her," Magic Johnson said. } else { I don't feel the need to do that. For Magic Johnson, supporting his gay son Earvin Johnson III, known as "E.J.," wasn't even a question. "I am very, very, very blessed to have the family that I do," he said on "Gwissues." Magic Johnson is one of the most iconic athletes and NBA players in basketball history. (The series was canceled after the first season. Yet even without modern drugs, in rare instances a person living with HIV can manage on their own to keep AIDS at bay. I also said that I was going to become a spokesperson in the fight against the human immunodeficiency virus and an advocate for practicing safe sex by using condoms. Magic Johnson went from an unequivocal role in the NBA to a businessman and a legend in his own right. I could really feel the love. However, Magic revealed in that press conference that his biggest fan was less than thrilled. EJ's mom said that her husband was worried about his son living . A Warner Bros. Interestingly enough, EJ spilled all the inside tea when he appeared on Jada Pinkett Smiths Red Table Talk. If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing Johnson was first called "Magic" when he was a star at Everett High School. Im just very comfortable in my own skin. He was supported by his family in his decision to come out publicly. While Johnson can now attest to 30 years of life after being diagnosed with HIV, his journey living with the disease has been far from easy. And we love him. Bernadette Giacomazzo Dec 17, 2021. He was cast in the first season of E! So if you dont support them, whos going to support them and love them?, Despite being openly interested in gender-fluid fashion, EJ told E! "Thank you for teaching us how to be people of action, not words, and to always be a blessing to those around you," Andre wrote in the caption. How and When Did Magic Johnson Contract HIV? Like her mom and brother EJ, Elisa is interested in fashion, and launched her own sunglass line in 2021. It happened," he said (via theDaily Mail). Therapists say it can damage your connection. "There is nothing unique about Magic," Spencer Lieb, senior epidemiologist (opens in new tab) and HIV/AIDS research coordinator for the Florida Consortium for HIV/AIDS Research told Live Science. Since EJ Johnsons sexual orientation has become public, his famous father has appeared in interviews speaking out about the importance of embracing children for who they are. Since Dec. 2018, he's been the vice president of business development at a computer gaming company called Mythical Games. In the photos, he is elegantly posing next to a pool wearing a blue mini-dress that fits him just right. It is precisely these kinds of drugs that have helped Magic Johnson manage the disease and have made HIV a chronic health condition rather than a fatal disease. section: | slug: magic-johnson-opens-up-on-living-with-hiv-30-years-after-his-diagnosis | sport: basketball | route: article_single.us | Now, Johnson has never been shy about his gender-defying sense of fashion. EJ was born June 4, 1992, during a turbulent time in Magics life. After the discussion, Magics wife made sure to let him know that his reaction wasnt OK. Magic admitted to blurting out the first thing that came to his mind. Magic Johnson's Son Was the Executive Vice President of His Company Andre Johnson graduated in 1999 from Santa Monica College with a degree in Business Management. We collect and tell stories of people from all around the world. Despite indicating the doctors told him there was no risk of transmission, Johnsons return during the 1992 preseason was frowned upon. Magic Johnson, byname of Earvin Johnson, Jr., (born August 14, 1959, Lansing, Michigan, U.S.), American basketball player who led the National Basketball Association (NBA) Los Angeles Lakers to five championships. During his career as an NBA player, Johnson's annual salary was around $24 million, an amount . I dont feel the need to transition. But I don't feel incomplete in that way. At the time, EJ was still a student at New York University. (Image credit: Science Photo Library - SCIEPRO via Getty Images). Already a trailblazer who's been challenging long-standing gender stereotypes when it comes to his attire, EJ was considering launching his own fashion collection back in 2017, according to The New York Times. "You mean he just let his son in law run everything Dad?" "Yes because he was Jewish." "Are Jews magic Dad?" "Sure are," I say. America's Favorite Gay Newsman: Openly Gay Anderson Cooper Split With Restauranter Partner; Boyfriend Still Family. After celebrating his 28th birthday, EJ took to Instagram once more to post a series of pictures on his stories. Michael, who suffered . RELATED:See LeBron James' 16-Year-Old Son, Who's Already a Basketball Star. Johnson retired abruptly in 1991 after announcing that he had contracted HIV, but returned to play in the 1992 All-Star Game, winning the All-Star MVP Award. When Magic Johnson's iconic basketball career was interrupted by a stunning HIV diagnosis three decades ago, the newlywed NBA legend had no idea how much time he had to live or how the virus. Magic Johnson was on hand to celebrate his son EJ Johnson's milestone birthday over the weekend. A New York Times review of the show referred to EJ as the most likeable character on the show. The transformed, soon-to-be NYU grad and son of Magic Johnson showed off his new look on Good Day New York. "Feeling all the elation feels today," EJ wrote on Instagram, sharing the news that he'd voice Michael Collins. COMING OUT . When it was time to come out, I was, obviously, scared as most people are. "I said that because I had tested HIV-positive, I was retiring from the NBA. He actually helped me get there. "I thought about it, for sure," he said (via Us Weekly). Magic Johnson has remained a central part of the Lakers franchise in his life since, serving as a coach and executive, as well as a player when he came out of retirement for the 1996 season. EJ said, Its always been a struggle. All Rights Reserved. In honor of Father's Day last year, he posted a photo of Magic, Cookie, Gigi, and Andre, along with a heartfelt tribute. It was, like, this is supposed to be my show and my moment, and it wasn't what I wanted at all. "We love him and EJ is amazing, so you gotta support your child. The tabloid posted a video of the star holding hands with a man named Alessandro Monetti.. I mean, I looked good, but that was just me doing me." Related:Meet Quincy Isaiah, the Michigan Man Playing Magic Johnson in HBO Maxs Winning Time. Remember, HIV-AIDS were still primarily labeled gay diseasesback then. The NBA tweeted that the league mourns the passing of Michael Johnson., Michael was admired by so many around the league for his remarkable courage and perseverance. Today he is becoming a fashionista who is looking to give a stronger voice to the transgender community through his own experience. The reality TV Star was born on June 2, 1992, in Beverly Hills, California, the United States. Ive never done anything on television that is this honest and real, he shared in an Instagram post promoting the segment. In the series, his relationship with his youngest son, EJ, is explored. You need to get creative.". "This character is witty fabulous glamorous and a force to be reckoned as well as unapologetically themselves.". reality series, "Rich Kids of Beverly Hills" and its spin-off "EJNYC." 12:46 pm ET, Bucks vs. 76ers odds, picks, computer sims, Morant to miss 'at least' two games after IG post, NBA DFS picks, lineups, advice, March 4 strategy, Grizzlies' Clarke out for season with Achilles injury, Raptors vs. Wizards odds, picks, computer sims, Streaking Warriors must overcome one major roadblock, Magic Johnson opens up on 30 years with HIV, Window for Durant, Suns is open -- until it's not, Morant to miss two games after video with gun, Nuggets beat Grizz, likely lock up West's top spot, Randle's game-winner runs Knicks' win streak to eight, Celtics booed off floor after blowing 28-point lead. NBA legend Magic Johnsons son, EJ Johnson, is on his way of becoming a fashion icon as well as a voice for the transgender community. Magic Johnson, whom they drafted in 1979, was a vital cog in their championship runs. Next, meet the MVP in Michael Jordans life, his wife Yvette Prieto. You are our foundation and the backbone," he wrote in the caption. Are you dating me or are you trying to date my dad?" if( 'moc.enilnoefiltseb' !== location.hostname.split('').reverse().join('') ) { On Mother's Day this year, he shared a photo on Instagram of his entire family celebrating, including his three kids and grandkids. Magic does have a relationship with his son EJ. Johnson has been starting his mornings off right ever since he lost more than 100 lbs.! EJ (Earvin Johnson III) can relate to this all too well. Crediting dad Magic Johnson for giving him the following advice, EJ recalled, "Make sure you check your surroundings and be you, do you, but make sure you're not putting yourself in dangerous situations where you could get hurt.". "I've always been very fashion-forward," he said in an episode of "EJNYC" (via Us Weekly). scientific studies and medical journals. Find out why exercise can be important to mental health too. HIV spreads by hijacking a subset of white blood cells called CD4 cells or T cells, which are the body's first line of defense against foreign invaders, and using the cells' DNA to make copies of itself or replicate; in this process, these T cells get destroyed, according to Healthline (opens in new tab). Its given me a whole new view on life. EJ often will reflect on his childhood and his innate inclination toward fashion and design. He was 33. Maybe you've heard about him on the internet or in a tabloid headline. After four seasons, he'd also appeared on "Fashion Police" and worked as a red-carpet special correspondent, and the network gave EJ his own spin-off called "EJNYC" in 2016. In scientific terms, this mode of replication classifies HIV as a retrovirus, hence "antiretroviral" drugs. When talking about his positionas the Celebrity Grand Marshall of the San Francisco Gay Pride Parade in 2014 (via E! Its a totally new mindset Im completely dedicated to living a new, healthy lifestyle. Besides recognizing himself as a gender-fluid person, he has also been known for enjoying his lavish way of living. EJ Johnson once told BETthat racism hasn't been a significant problem in his life. "I was told not to say anything about him kissing me, but he did. This latency of HIV allows some infected cells to escape immune detection and elimination, and these latently infected cells constitute the viral reservoir," wrote Nathan W. Cummins, MD and Andrew D. Badley, MD for Mayo Clinic Proceedings (opens in new tab) in 2015. First of all, the celebrity thing who are you here for, are you dating me or are you trying to date my dad?, In August 2018, EJ lost his best friend, Lyric McHenry, to a drug overdose. "I always say that if you feel like you're not in the right body, then by all means get to where you want to be. Celebrities often grow accustomed to having their privacy invaded by paparazzi. He also shared some insight into his diet and exercise routine. PerBET, the show was "not completely ratchet with hair pulling and fighting," but let's be honest, it wasn't exactly "Masterpiece Theater," either. "I'm completely dedicated to living a new, healthy lifestyle." "Feeling all the elation feels today," EJ wrote on Instagram, sharing the news that he'd voice Michael Collins. Both were recently reunited for debut of . The youngest of the group, Elisa, was adopted by the Johnsons in 1995 when she was just three days old. "It was a little tough", said Cookie during the interview. "My ignorance could cost me my life, but I wanted to try and ensure that no one else would become infected with HIV for the same reason" Johnson wrote in Sports Illustrated (opens in new tab) on November 18, 1991. It's just business as usual and that business is his family. EJ singled out the show's producers, claiming, "Everyone was just worried about me being 'relatable,' and even that word made me want to gag.". To these days, the whole family supports EJ in every way, as the close and lovely family they all are. Bestlifeonline.com is part of the Meredith Health Group. Hydeia Broadbent remains AIDS activist 20 years after TV special with Magic Johnson. Magic Johnson quickly issued a statement, saying, "Cookie and I love EJ and support him in every way. However, it was not a shock to his parents. To see what Magic Johnson's three children are up to and to learn more about the tight-knit Johnson family, read on. Im almost 100 percent positive I wont. 2004-2023 CBS Interactive. He also questioned if EJ was sure he knew what he was saying. EJ turned 30 on Saturday and marked the occasion with a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park . Andre is married to Lisa Meyers Johnson, and has two kids, Gigi and Avery. Sorry tabloids: EJ is just busy being himself. ", Related: Magic Johnson Supports His Gay Son One Million Percent, EJ identifies as gender-fluid and is an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Magic Johnson was invited to participate as a member of the Western Conference during the 1992 All-Star Game, winning the MVP after scoring 25 points and adding nine assists in a feel-good performance. "We appreciate the love and kindness you shower us with daily.". Earlier this year, Magic and Cookie Johnson's 20-year-old son, EJ, caused a stir when TMZ videotaped him walking down Sunset Boulevard holding hands with a male friend. News' recap, EJ urged his sister to call it quits with Alcaraz, and it looks like she eventually heeded his advice. "It wasn't how he got it that was important to me. "I've always loved being in front of people, being on stage and performing. Magic Johnson, Cookie Johnson and EJ Johnson attend "To Kill A Mockingbird" Broadway Opening Night at Shubert Theatre on December 13, 2018 in New York City. Live Science is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Johnson insisted, even then, that he would be around the league and the Lakers. EJs mom said that her husband was worried about his son living his life in a world that would not understand him. It was sad. AmoMama creates engaging, meaningful content for women. Please respect my privacy and my process., A post shared by EJ Johnson (@ejjohnson_) on May 4, 2016 at 12:39pm PDT. Researchers continue to study long-term nonprogressors to get insights on HIV resistance that could help the 37.7 million people battling the virus, the current estimate of UNAIDS according to HIV.gov (opens in new tab). That doesn't mean it was always easy, however. News), EJ said, "Whether it's the African-American community, or in my case, the gay community, it's important to make sure that we represent those communities in a positive way. These and other HIV-fighting drugs are "hideously expensive," said Lieb. This is something that transcends judgment and ignorance and should be seen as a vehicle to educate and inform people about gender fluidity. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare genetic disorder of progressive muscular weakness, which typically affects boys, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. During the life cycle of the virus, HIV integrates into the host DNA. Separately, Magic posted a photo of Cookie, in honor of the occasion. Please fill in your e-mail so we can share with you our top stories! In 1991, the 13-season Los Angeles Lakers star married his wife, Cookie, who gave birth to their son EJ Johnson soon after. Did you encounter any technical issues? EJ went on to say, "Now, since everybody's talking about Caitlyn Jenner and being transgender, people are so quick to say, 'Oh, just because you're dressing like that means that you're going to transition to become a woman.'". sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices. (Image credit: YakubovAlim via Getty Images). The gender-fluid fashionista is always flaunting his amazing wardrobe. As for Louis Vuitton using Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, in its women's line adsthe previous year, EJ claimed,"If you're going to do it, I think you should go with somebody who's actually doing it because they genuinely get it as opposed to somebody who just has a name and was doing it just to be out there." Yet through all the ups and downs, he remains the same bubbly person he has always been. ', It all goes down Tomorrow night ! For more entertainment and celebrity news sent to you directly, sign up for our daily newsletter. What's the real deal with EJ Johnson? E.J. EJ was a guest host on Fashion Police and has filledin on E! xhr.open('POST', 'https://www.google-analytics.com/collect', true); The longtime Inside the NBA host said via Twitter, We are grieving and at the same time so grateful for having been witnesses to a miraculous 33 years with michael., A post shared by Ernie Johnson (@ernie.johnson). He pressed a finger to a small, pinkish hole on his thigh that was developing into a scab. 1:59 Coming for b*tches 5:48 Unlikely friends 7:24 Magic Johnsons Son 9:48 The ho phase 11:06 Transitioning? The NBA star and businesswoman, who met in college, have been together on and off for over 40 years and. The 62-year-old was first drafted on the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979 and continued to play for them for 13 seasons.. However, much like Earvin Johnson Jr. goes by Magic, his son is called EJ. EJ recalled, "[Magic] just was like, we're gonna get through this, I just need time and we both just started crying a little bit. I feel like this is the body I'm supposed to be in. (Photo by Rich Fury/Getty Images for GLAAD). And he got it from me, Magic told Varietyin April 2022. "When my son came out, I was so happy for him and happy for us as parents," the former basketball player said. EJ ultimately decided to come out before beginning college at New York University (NYU). In 2014, he joined the Rich Kids of Beverly Hills, a reality series following lives of some of the richest kids. Although Johnson reacted at first, he talked to his son the next day and at that moment, they knew everything was going to be fine between them.