Earvin “Magic” Johnson officially opened the 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena on January 1, 2026, as the event’s Grand Marshal. The basketball legend, accompanied by his wife, Cookie, began their journey at approximately 8 a.m., riding in a 1940 white Lincoln Continental Cabriolet. As they traversed the 5.5-mile route, Johnson greeted the enthusiastic crowd with his signature smile and warm waves.
“This is one of the greatest moments of my life. Just like winning a championship,” Johnson remarked as he enjoyed the festivities. To shield themselves from the intermittent rain, the convertible’s top remained up, though Johnson extended his arm out the window to connect with the fans. The original plan for Johnson to sit on a special back bench was altered due to the weather, leading the driver, Brett Furrey, to adjust the front seat to provide more legroom for the 6-foot-9 Hall of Famer.
Known for his success with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he led the team to five NBA championships in the 1980s, Johnson has transitioned into a successful entrepreneur. His business portfolio includes a stake in the championship LA Dodgers and various investments through Magic Johnson Enterprises, which focuses on clean energy, healthcare, and restaurant industries. Johnson’s journey into the business world began in the 1990s with his ownership of Magic Johnson Theaters, which later sold to Loew’s Cineplex Entertainment.
In 1991, Johnson shocked the sports world by announcing he was HIV-positive, a diagnosis that led to his retirement from the NBA. At that time, misconceptions about HIV were prevalent, and many feared the virus could be transmitted through casual contact. Despite the stigma, Johnson returned to the court for the 1992 NBA All-Star Game, where he not only played but also earned the MVP title with 25 points. His announcement and subsequent resilience played a crucial role in changing public perceptions about HIV and those living with the virus.
Johnson has remained healthy and has never progressed to AIDS. His advocacy for those with HIV continues to this day, exemplified by his recent partnership with venture capitalists and Alchemy to enhance patient care and pharmacy services for individuals living with the virus. “Investing in Alchemy is deeply personal, not only as a person living with HIV but because I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of HIV in our communities,” Johnson stated on his company’s website.
In addition to his business ventures, Johnson has engaged in philanthropic efforts to support victims of the January 2025 wildfires in Altadena and the Palisades. Collaborating with Dodgers chairman Mark Walter and 2028 Olympics organizer Casey Wasserman, he formed LA Rises to assist in the rebuilding of fire-affected areas, focusing particularly on Altadena, where many Black families lost their homes.
Johnson’s presence at the Rose Parade not only highlighted his distinguished career in sports but also emphasized his ongoing commitment to community and public health. As he led the parade, the impact of his journey from basketball star to advocate and entrepreneur resonated with many, showcasing how personal challenges can inspire broader societal change.
