On the cusp of HBO Max releasing the one-hour TV series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, based on Earvin “Magic” Johnson and the building of one of sports most dynamic NBA teams, the Los Angeles Lakers, Apple TV has produced their own homage to the athlete known as “Showtime.”
They Call Me Magic explores the life of the legendary Los Angeles Laker in a four-part documentary. The doc explains how Johnson received his nickname “Magic” and delves into his winning streak that dominated the 1980s.
On a more serious note, footage shows Johnson announcing his retirement from the Lakers due to his HIV diagnosis in 1991 and his subsequent triumphant return to basketball at the 1992 Olympics as a member of the Dream Team, which included Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, Clyde Drexler, Karl Malone, Patrick Ewing, and Charles Barkley, to name a few.
The poignant piece delves into his ventures as he revives business in South Central Los Angeles. His life outside of basketball and business is also revealed in intimate interviews about his child E.J. Johnson and marriage to wife Cookie Johnson.
They Call Me Magic premieres April 22, 2022 on Apple TV+.
Watch the official trailer below:
