How Long Was Magic Compatible With Hiv?

Magic Johnson, an NBA legend and businessman, revealed his HIV status during an appearance on CBS Mornings. He had a routine physical exam before the 1991-1992 NBA season and was asked to retire due to the virus. Johnson announced his HIV status in 1991, which shocked the nation and led to him publicly sharing his HIV status. The virus still disproportionately burdens minority groups, and thanks to advances in medical science, the disease is now more manageable than it was when he first revealed his diagnosis.

In a recent interview with BBC’s Katty Kay, Johnson recalled his journey with HIV after announcing his diagnosis in 1991. He retired abruptly in 1991 after announcing that he had contracted HIV, but returned to play in the 1992 All-Star Game, winning the All-Star MVP Award. After protests from fellow players, he returned to play.

Magic Johnson Jr., an American businessman and former professional basketball player, is often considered the greatest point of contact for HIV. The average period between infection with the human immunodeficiency virus and diagnosis of AIDS is now ten years, according to experts. Johnson used the 1992 Olympic Games to shatter stigma around HIV and turned his devastating diagnosis into an opportunity to educate the public about the disease.

In November 2011, video excerpts of Magic Johnson’s interview with FRONTLINE were published on the 20th anniversary of his HIV diagnosis. He stunned basketball fans and transformed HIV awareness by announcing his diagnosis in 1991, and thirty years later, he discusses his relationship with Anthony Fauci.