Magic Johnson brought excitement not only to the Los Angeles Lakers but also to the entire City of Los Angeles. Renowned for his dazzling moves and legendary house parties, he also ventured into entrepreneurship, owning various businesses, including a Los Angeles cinema, where he interacted with the famous singer Prince.
During an appearance on Thursday’s episode of ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show‘, Magic shared the story of how he initially met the late musician. Johnson recounted receiving a phone call from someone claiming to be Prince. When Magic inquired if the caller was “the” Prince, the caller confirmed it.
Magic Johnson remembered Prince’s request to book an entire theater for a 1 a.m. session with a group of people, all wearing pajamas. Johnson promptly informed his manager about Prince’s unusual request. He said,
I went to sleep and got back up at 12. I had to make sure he was okay. So here come the buses, people came in and I tell you something, they were like little kids, laughing at every joke, everything that happened, wearing pajamas. I mean, just what he said would happen happened.
Magic described a memorable night when he and Prince went to a theater together. Prince arrived in a big bus with everyone in pajamas. They enjoyed drinks and popcorn, and Prince stayed until the early hours of the morning, continuously calling Magic to extend the fun.
Magic Johnson helped raise money for HBCUs
Five years ago, Magic Johnson teamed up with Stephen A. Smith for a noble cause. Presently, their joint initiative has amassed $70 million for HBCUs and assisted approximately 12,000 students. Reflecting on the growth of the initiative during an appearance on “It’s What It Is”, Stephen A. Smith reminisced about the individuals who backed the initiative in 2019 and its subsequent expansion. Magic, renowned for his philanthropic endeavors benefiting minorities and women, played a significant role in its success.
Magic Johnson (Credits: Fan Sided)ESPN reported at the time that nearly 4000 individuals and 20 universities took part in HBCU week spearheaded by the two philanthropists. Aspiring college students were awarded scholarships immediately and secured admission to their respective schools.
In 1989, Rust College bestowed upon Johnson an honorary doctorate in recognition of his contributions to HBCUs. Over the years, Magic Johnson has been a frequent visitor to HBCUs, offering guidance to students and establishing scholarships for aspiring young individuals.
