EJ Johnson, son of basketball legend Magic Johnson, has captivated the public with his incredible weight loss journey. Over the past seven years, EJ has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding over 180 pounds and gaining newfound confidence. This article delves into the details of his journey, exploring the pivotal role of gastric sleeve surgery, his dedication to a healthier lifestyle, and the positive impact on his fashion expression and overall well-being.
The Jump to Fame and the Desire for Change
EJ Johnson stepped into the spotlight in 2013 after publicly coming out. While some were focused on his sexual orientation, others were intrigued by his fashion sense. Embracing fame, EJ joined the cast of "Rich Kids of Beverly Hills" in 2014. The show offered fans a glimpse into his life, showcasing his vibrant personality and also his struggles with weight.
The Decision for Weight Loss Surgery
By the end of the show's second season in 2014, EJ revealed his decision to undergo weight loss surgery. He opted for gastric sleeve surgery in August 2014, a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach. EJ explained that he had tried various diets without success and wanted a more permanent solution. He saw the surgery not as an easy way out, but as "a step in the right direction, just a big push."
Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A Tool for Transformation
Gastric sleeve surgery is a restrictive procedure that makes the stomach smaller, leading to a feeling of fullness with less food intake. According to EJ, doctors removed 80 percent of his stomach, leaving it the size of a banana. While the surgery was a significant step, EJ understood that it was just a tool and that maintaining the weight loss would require ongoing effort.
Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle
Following the surgery, EJ committed to transforming his lifestyle. He changed his eating habits, eliminating sugars, alcohol, and bread, and becoming more mindful of his food choices. He also incorporated regular exercise into his routine, including Pilates and dance cardio at least four times a week, and working with a personal trainer. EJ emphasized the importance of finding a fun workout, telling E! News, "We dance a lot, we sweat, and at the end of it, I'm like, 'Wow! I burned all these calories, and I didn't even know because we were just having a blast."
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The Results: A Newfound Confidence
By May 2015, EJ had lost over 100 pounds. He described weight loss surgery as a "tool" that helped him jumpstart the kind of life he wanted to lead. With his consistency and hard work, he maintained his weight loss and developed a new mindset.
Fashion Freedom: Expressing Himself Through Style
EJ was already known for his fashion sense before his weight loss, but his transformation opened up a new world of possibilities. He began experimenting more with clothes, embracing skimpy dresses, jumpsuits, and barely-there skirts. He has admitted that he loves to show off skin, and he has grown more and more confident in the past years. EJ started adding high heels and wigs to his outfits, creating a more androgynous fantasy. For EJ, fashion is just another form of expression, and he's comfortable in the body he was born in.
Support from Family and Peers
EJ has received unwavering support from his parents, Magic and Cookie Johnson, who have expressed their pride in his weight loss and accomplishments. He also sought advice from Star Jones, who underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2003. Jones emphasized that surgery was "definitely a tool for a whole new life" and not "the easy way out."
Other Celebrities Who Have Undergone Weight Loss Surgery
EJ Johnson is not alone in his decision to undergo weight loss surgery. Other celebrities who have taken similar steps include:
- Star Jones: The lawyer and TV personality turned to gastric bypass surgery after reaching nearly 300 pounds.
- Al Roker: The Today Show weatherman had weight loss surgery in 2002 and documented his journey in his memoir.
- Randy Jackson: The former American Idol judge underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2003.
- Patti Austin: The R&B songstress had weight loss surgery in 2005 and lost over 100 pounds in the first year.
- Paul Wall: The Houston rapper lost over 100 pounds after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery in 2010.
Overcoming Bullying and Embracing Self-Acceptance
EJ admitted that he was bullied when he was younger, but his decision to have weight loss surgery was his own. He stated that his father supported him in whatever choice he wanted to make about the surgery.
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