When Was Magic Johnson Infected With Hiv?

Magic Johnson, an NBA legend and businessman, was diagnosed with HIV in 1991. He had a routine physical exam before the 1991-1992 NBA season and received a call from the Lakers physician asking him to disclose his HIV status. Despite the shock of the news, Magic did not transmit the virus to his wife, Cookie Johnson, and his children were not born with the illness either. His HIV disclosure helped to shatter stigmas around the disease, but disparities in treatment still exist 30 years later.

Magic Johnson Jr., an American businessman and former professional basketball player, was a significant figure in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He publicly shared his HIV status during the 1992 Olympic Games, which helped to shatter stigma around the virus. However, the virus still disproportionately burdens minority populations.

In November 2011, FRONTLINE published video excerpts of Magic Johnson’s interview with FRONTLINE on the 20th anniversary of his HIV diagnosis. The former NBA star discussed his relationship with Anthony Fauci and how it transformed his life. Despite being dropped by sponsors and players, Magic Johnson used the 1992 Olympic Games to shatter stigma around HIV. In summary, Magic Johnson’s HIV diagnosis and subsequent public disclosure helped to shatter stigmas and promote understanding about the disease.