Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr., the celebrated NBA legend, has not only left an indelible mark on the world of basketball but has also become an inspiring figure in health advocacy and personal transformation. At 63, Johnson exemplifies how a rigorous commitment to physical and mental well-being can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.
Early Life and Basketball Career
Born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, Earvin Johnson Jr. grew up in a family that instilled a strong work ethic. His parents, Earvin Sr. and Christine, worked tirelessly to provide for their family, influencing Johnson's approach to life and basketball. His love for basketball began in his youth, idolizing players like Bill Russell, Earl Monroe, and Marques Haynes.
Johnson's basketball journey took him from Everett High School to Michigan State University, where he led the Spartans to an NCAA championship in 1979. Selected first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1979 NBA draft, he quickly became a pivotal player in the team's "Showtime" era.
During his 13 seasons with the Lakers, Johnson achieved remarkable success, averaging 19.5 points, 11.2 assists, and 7.2 rebounds in 906 regular-season games. His accolades include three NBA Most Valuable Player Awards, three NBA Finals MVPs, and five NBA titles. Known for his exceptional court vision and leadership, Johnson's career was marked by extraordinary achievements and a lasting impact on the sport.
Prioritizing Health and Wellness
Magic Johnson's commitment to health is evident in his daily routine. The 63-year-old NBA legend wakes up before sunrise and follows a rigorous schedule that includes stretching, weightlifting, and cardio to start the day. "I wake up at four o’clock every morning," Johnson said, according to People. "I love the mornings when it’s still. Just really having an hour or two to myself when it’s quiet."
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Managing HIV and Promoting Public Health
Contrary to what some people may believe, Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr. has managed to stay healthy - and, more importantly, alive - after disclosing his HIV diagnosis more than 30 years ago, and not with sorcery, but with a rather stringent healthcare regimen. Johnson's dedication to public health extends to his advocacy for older adults. He has teamed up with GSK to introduce Sideline RSV, a health education initiative aimed at informing older adults about the risks of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and preventive measures. RSV is a widespread, contagious respiratory virus that can be particularly dangerous for older adults. “RSV is out there in a big way.”
Johnson emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and prompt medical attention. “Early detection saved my life, right?” said Johnson, People reported. “I’ve been living with HIV now for 32 years, but if I hadn’t gone to the doctor, what would’ve happened to me?”
Mental Health Advocacy
Prioritizing mental health is also crucial in ensuring their overall well-being. He said it’s essential to maintain communication with friends and family members and ensure they do the same, especially as loneliness sets in with older age.
EJ Johnson's Weight Loss Journey
Magic Johnson's son, EJ Johnson, has also undergone a remarkable transformation, publicly documenting his weight loss journey. EJ's transformation began with gastric sleeve surgery in August 2014, a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach. According to what EJ told People magazine at the time, he decided to go under the knife after trying several diets and seeing no results. "Nothing was working, and I wanted to make a more permanent decision to get back on track," he stated.
Lifestyle Changes and Fitness
In addition to surgery, EJ adopted significant lifestyle changes, including healthier eating habits and regular exercise. He cut out sugars, alcohol, and bread from his diet and incorporated Pilates and dance cardio into his fitness routine.
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By May 2015, EJ had lost over 100 pounds. Talking to the talk show host, he described weight loss surgery as a "tool" that helped him jumpstart the kind of life he wanted to lead.
Fashion and Confidence
EJ's weight loss journey has also influenced his approach to fashion, giving him the confidence to experiment with different styles. EJ started experimenting more with clothes, going from fur shawls and big purses to 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. He has become known for his genderless and daring fashion choices, embracing his unique sense of style. For EJ, fashion is just another form of expression, and contrary to what many might believe, he's comfortable in the body he was born in and doesn't see transitioning in his future.
Parental Support
Magic and Cookie Johnson have expressed immense pride in their son's weight loss and accomplishments, both as an entertainer and an LGBTQ rights advocate.
Other Celebrities Weight Loss
Here, we spotlight some notable individuals who have undergone inspiring transformations.
Jennifer Hudson
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Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson has captivated global audiences with her powerful voice and compelling acting skills. Beyond her public persona, Hudson has also navigated personal challenges with weight and body image. In 2010, she embarked on a journey prioritizing her health, ultimately losing over 80 pounds through exercise and adopting cleaner eating habits. Her transformation is a testament to the power of dedication and continues to inspire many.
Missy Elliot
The iconic rapper and producer, known for her innovative style and groundbreaking beats, has also jumped on fitness train and decided to make a change to her physical appearance. In recent years, Missy has made significant efforts to keep up her health and well-being. Nevertheless, Missy has continued to push through the difficulties and got the body she worked hard for.