Over 30 years ago, the NBA world witnessed a major shock. One of the biggest superstars, Magic Johnson sat down for a press conference in California. The five-time champion’s face was calm for the news he was about to announce. Notably, in 1991, Johnson announced to the world that he had contracted HIV. During those times, the disease was viewed as a death sentence. However, Magic became the beacon as he has survived and remains healthy even today.

Magic is one of the most admired NBA icons of all time. The face of the Showtime Los Angeles Lakers, Johnson was more than just an athlete. Living in LA, he had become a global star. His flashy passes and spectacle-like plays made fans fall in love. In the 1980s decade, he shared the stage with Larry Bird as the best player in the league. However, in 1991, the league would fear losing one of its biggest superstars.

Johnson’s motives were clear, he wanted to help others dealing with life-threatening diseases such as HIV. However, his wife Cookie was against the Lakers legend coming out. Notably, the reputation of the once-lethal disease set the stage for fright.

Magic Johnson reveals wife Cookie’s biggest fear

During his interview with the Breakfast Club, Magic opened up about the time he contracted HIV. The $600 million worth star revealed how he assumed the responsibility of being the face of the disease. After educating himself, Johnson was ready to face the world. However, his wife, Cookie was still unaware. Fresh off the devastating news, she didn’t want Magic to keep it under wraps. However, The Lakers legend wanted to help others and stand as an example to bounce back from such diseases.

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Magic Johnson said: “I had to think about it a lot because Cookie didn’t want me to come out because she was fearful of what might happen. You know, the response. But when I talked to Elizabeth Glazier who had really educated me about HIV,” The Hall of Famer further said: “I aid ‘You know what, I want to save a lot of brother’s and sister’s life so I’m going to come out in public.” 

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Johnson did exactly what he envisioned. Despite being diagnosed with such a scary disease, Magic prevailed. In the 1992 All-Star game, the Lakers legend showed the world how HIV wasn’t going to get in his way. Moreover, he even played in the 1992 Dream Team along with Larry Bird and Michael Jordan. The three-time MVP served as an inspiration to many that a disease isn’t the end of life. Now for over 30 years, Johnson lives healthy despite having the disease.

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Do you think Magic Johnson did right by coming out? Let us know your views in the comments below.