The Magic Johnson documentary series teased in 2020 is officially coming to Apple TV+. Framed as the five-time NBA champion and Showtime Lakers’ answer to Michael Jordan’s The Last Dance, the four-part project entitled They Call Me Magic will address his career, global influence, and persona affairs with unprecedented access.
According to Apple TV+ themselves:
They Call Me Magic explores the remarkable accomplishments and global impact of Earvin "Magic" Johnson’s life - from his humble beginnings in Lansing, Michigan to becoming a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, he changed the conversation around HIV and transcended into a community activist and successful entrepreneur.
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Featuring never-before-seen footage and interviews with Magic Johnson himself, powerhouses from business and politics, and those in his inner circle, here are some of the most notable names you can expect an appearance from:
- Cookie Johnson (wife)
- EJ Johnson (son)
- Larry Bird
- LL Cool J
- Snoop Dogg
- Samuel L. Jackson
- Michael Jordan
- Shaquille O’Neil
- Dwayne Wade
- Jerry West
- Former US President Barack Obama
They Call Me Magic has been directed by Rick Famuyiwa – who most notably helmed Dope starring Shameik Moore, Tony Revolori, Kiersey Clemons, and ASAP Rocky – while the editing has been accomplished by Dirk Westervelt (Ford v Ferrari), with cinematography from Rachel Morrison (Black Panther). XTR, New Slate Ventures, H.Wood Media, Delirio Films collaboratively served as producers.
“They Call Me Magic offers a rare glimpse into the incredible real-life story of Magic Johnson, who left his mark on history through his work — both on and off the court — and continues to impact our culture today.”
“You get the basketball side of it, but then also how I reinvented myself and how I went into business and what I’m doing today, so it will all come into this documentary… I’m looking forward to it,” Magic Johnson previously told Entertainment Tonight.
In addition to this upcoming Magic Johnson documentary series, audiences can look forward to similar releases involving Steph Curry, Wilt Chamberlain, Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant whenever the footage is finally cleared for use, and David Beckham.
They Call Me Magic will hit Apple TV+ on April 22nd of 2022 – check out the full-length trailer above.
