They Call Me Magic

They Call Me Magic is a poignant, in-depth documentary series on Apple TV+ that premiered in 2022. The show delves into the life and legacy of basketball icon Earvin "Magic" Johnson, offering a comprehensive look at his remarkable journey both on and off the court. Spanning four episodes, the series is a portrait of an athlete whose impact transcended sports, touching on issues of business, activism, and HIV awareness.

The series begins by chronicling Magic's humble beginnings in Lansing, Michigan, where he first discovered his love for basketball. The show captures how his early life, family, and experiences molded his personality and fueled his competitive fire. Viewers are introduced to a charismatic young talent who quickly rose through the high school ranks and went on to play for Michigan State University, where he cemented his status as a standout player by leading the Spartans to a national championship.

As They Call Me Magic continues, the series shifts focus to Johnson’s illustrious career in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers. It's a deep dive into the 1980s Lakers era, a period often referred to as "Showtime" due to the team's fast-paced and entertaining style of play. Johnson's rivalry with Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird, which began in college and flourished in the pros, is explored as a pivotal narrative, depicting how their competition elevated the league’s popularity and turned the friendly foes into lifelong friends.

Beyond the athletic achievements, the show artfully portrays Magic's magnetic personality and business acumen. It details his ventures both during and after his NBA career, showcasing his successful transition into entrepreneurship. The series highlights how Magic became a notable businessman, investing in various sectors from movie theaters and Starbucks franchises to becoming a part-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers and later, a part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. His impact on urban economic development and his role in revitalizing underserved communities are testament to his foresight and commitment to social change.

They Call Me Magic does not shy away from the more sensitive chapters of Johnson’s life. One of the most moving segments of the series addresses his stunning revelation in 1991 that he was diagnosed with HIV. The documentary provides an intimate glimpse into the reactions, controversies, and concerns that arose from the disclosure, and how Magic faced the stigmatization surrounding the disease. His announcement, which shocked the world, inadvertently transformed him into a de facto ambassador for HIV/AIDS awareness and education, a role that Johnson has embraced with courage and dedication.

The series also delves into Magic's personal life, exploring his relationships with his wife, Cookie, their children, and friends. Insights provided by interviews with family members, friends, former teammates, and managers paint a multi-dimensional depiction of the man behind the megawatt smile. These candid conversations reveal the challenges and triumphs that have shaped him as a husband, father, and mentor.

Throughout the episodes, viewers are treated to behind-the-scenes footage, archival clips, and exclusive interviews with a host of NBA greats, celebrities, and business moguls who share their experiences, perspectives, and anecdotes about Magic's influence on basketball, business, and culture. It's this mix of personal reflection and contextual analysis that provides a complete understanding of Magic's extraordinary legacy.

They Call Me Magic doesn’t just celebrate the sporting icon's vast achievements but also lays bare the complex nature of his journey, including the setbacks and controversies that have dotted his path. The show captures Magic's grace under pressure and his ability to adapt and prosper against the backdrop of an evolving America.

In essence, the documentary series is a comprehensive tale of aspiration, resilience, and transformation. It's an inspiring account of a public figure who has navigated the highs and lows of life with relentless positivity and an unwavering commitment to improvement—both in terms of his own life and the communities he has striven to uplift. For fans of basketball, They Call Me Magic is essential viewing, offering a look into the life of one of the game's most celebrated figures, but it holds equal appeal for viewers new to Johnson's story, providing an engaging, emotionally resonant chronicle of a true American icon.