Magic Johnson biography, married, wife, earlitha kelly, stats, injury, salary, contract, fangraphs, hiv, aids, net worth • biography

HIV Diagnosis and Advocacy Work

In 1991, Magic Johnson married Earlitha "Cookie" Kelly. The couple has three children: Andre Johnson, Elisa Johnson, and Earvin Johnson III. That same year, Johnson publicly announced he was HIV-positive and immediately retired from the NBA. The diagnosis, resulting from unprotected sexual activity, came at a particularly difficult time, as his wife was pregnant. Fortunately, both his wife and child tested negative for HIV.

Johnson faced widespread public reaction, both critical and supportive, and responded by championing awareness for HIV/AIDS. He established the Magic Johnson Foundation, which focuses on HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, and education. His efforts in HIV advocacy have had a lasting impact beyond the basketball court.

Support for the LGBTQ Community

Magic Johnson has been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community, particularly due to his son, Earvin Johnson III (commonly known as EJ Johnson). EJ has openly shared his identity, and Magic has publicly expressed his support and encouragement, becoming a role model for parental acceptance and advocacy in the LGBTQ space.

Business Ventures and Return to Basketball

After retiring from basketball, Johnson transitioned into a successful business career. With a net worth estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars, he built a diverse portfolio that includes real estate, multiple Starbucks franchises, and a chain of movie theaters. He is also an accomplished author, having written books such as What You Can Do to Avoid AIDS to educate the public about HIV prevention.

In 1992, Johnson briefly returned to professional play as part of the U.S. "Dream Team" in the Barcelona Summer Olympics, where the team secured a gold medal. Though he explored returning to the NBA, he decided against it due to limited support from fellow players.

Later, he took on leadership roles within the NBA, including serving as President of Basketball Operations for the Los Angeles Lakers, further cementing his legacy not just as a player, but as a transformative figure in basketball and business alike.