Magic Johnson Talks New Apple TV+ Docuseries

Entertainment

| LAST UPDATE 03/13/2022

By Bernadette Forster
magic johnson docuseries
Rodin Eckenroth / Stringer via Getty Images

Magic Johnson has certainly left a mark on our culture with his many achievements both on and off the courts. The trailer of his upcoming docuseries, They Call Me Magic, captures it all - and we're here to fill you in on what you can expect to see.

The short preview of the 4-part documentary, which focuses on the life and NBA career of the Lakers legend, was released on March 12 by Apple TV+. And those who've seen it already know the series will feature a long list of interviews with Larry Bird, LL Cool J, Snoop Dogg, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O'Neil, President Obama, Fred Stabley Jr., Dwayne Wade, Jerry West, and Michael Wilbon. Also included in the series will be conversations with Johnson and members of his family telling the story of one NBA star who "forever changed the game of basketball."

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Before officially retiring in 1991 after becoming diagnosed with HIV, Johnson was one of the most celebrated players in NBA history. While playing for the LA Lakers, he earned five championships and three MVP awards, in addition to 12 All-Star appearances. The four-part series documents his journey going from NBA success to HIV community activism, and the significant role he's played in changing the conversation around the disease. Johnson considers the latter contributions to far outshine his success on the court. But his inspiration to share his story came from none other than the great Michael Jordan himself, who has his own docuseries called The Last Dance.

magic johnson career docuseries
Bob Riha Jr / Contributor via Getty Images

However, Johnson pointed out that his docuseries will differ slightly from The Last Dance, which focuses on Jordan's success on the court. "[In They Call Me Magic,] you're seeing my family, friends, everybody involved. You're going to see every episode be a different journey in my life. That's what makes me proud," Johnson shared. Be sure to catch all four parts of They Call Me Magic, set to premiere on April 22 on Apple TV+.

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