Meet EJ Johnson: Magic Johnson's Son and His Journey in the Spotlight
Meet EJ Johnson: Magic Johnson's Son and His Journey in the Spotlight
By Edcel Panganiban August 23, 2024 09:21
Earvin "EJ" Johnson III not only graced us by simply being the son of Magic Johnson but has made quite a name for himself as a well-known television personality, a fashion guru, and a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. EJ was raised in a rarefied home that mixed the world's access to great fortune while tempering it with much of dad's guile and wit. Magic Johnson, EJ's father, is known not only for his reign with the Los Angeles Lakers but also for how he led an advocacy charge following his 1991 HIV diagnosis.
Growing Up With EJ
EJ was raised in a loving home. His mother, Earlitha "Cookie" Johnson, has positively encouraged EJ's individuality from day one, so there are no worries about how he would change. Growing up, he was taught the importance of family values and to express himself wholeheartedly by definition. In his youth, he was interested in fashion, and that eventually became him passion and would soon become a staple of his public image.
EJ's Journey in the Spotlight
Johnson originally staked his claim to fame after starring on the E! reality series Rich Kids of Beverly Hills. The series offered a peek behind the curtain of wealthy teenagers living in Beverly Hills and their lavish lives, complete with high-priced toys like Range Rovers and exotic vacations. His then shocking appearance on the show was a major turning point in unscripted TV history.
EJ came out as gay in 2013, a choice he describes as freeing and a struggle all the same. The move came after a flurry of headlines over TMZ photos showing him walking hand in hand with another man. The Johnson family has rallied around EJ during his coming out process, with Magic and Cookie emphasizing the significance of their acceptance and love. With Magic's public endorsement, EJ would have a sturdy launching point for going through life as an LGBT+ celebrity.
His Impact as a TV Star
After breaking through on Rich Kids of Beverly Hills, EJ got his series that shone a light on life as an LGBT man called EJNYC. This reality series was notable as one of the first to follow an LGBTQ person of color, focusing on what happens when people in that niche go about their lives. EJ's time on TV granted him the unique opportunity to reach out to people whom he would have never been able to reach otherwise and promote self-acceptance, tolerance, and liberation in the queer community.
On Fashion
EJ has also made a big name beyond reality television in the fashion industry. Recognized for rocking a gender-bending style, he's no stranger to crossing over masculinity and femininity in his wardrobe, giving way to an aesthetic we haven't seen before moving on to Menswear that is slowly making its mark.
He makes daring choices in clothing, such as high heels and flashy outfits that go against societal norms, encouraging others not to be afraid of being who they are. He has become a familiar name in the industry for appearing among high-profile socialites in the front row at important shows, endlessly adorning magazine covers, and walking legend model sisters up and down red carpets worldwide.
EJ's Impact and Legacy
The impact of EJ Johnson goes far beyond his presence on television and in fashion. He is a hero to some in the LGBTQ+ community, especially youth who have become entangled within their own identities. His candidness about his sexuality and blatant disregard for respectability appeal to those who themselves may be ostracized or misunderstood. EJ's journey is a powerful reminder that seeking authenticity brings joy and inspires others.
Between his public appearances and persona, EJ has publicly challenged preconceived notions about what you can do with being into essentially any gender or sexuality. A staunch champion of LGBTQ+ rights, he has turned into a public voice, utilizing his influence to call out issues impacting the community.
Representation in Media
EJ's path has also reignited the age-old discussions of LGBTQ+ representation in media. His presence in reality TV and his work in fashion create more space for other people to tell their stories and share what they've been through. His presence in the entertainment industry has added a spotlight on diversity and inclusion, pushing networks and brands toward attaining new voices.
The future looks bright for EJ Johnson, thanks to his lasting legacy in fashion, television, and activism. In doing so, EJ will set an example in the coming years where entertainment meets social issues should evolve, and future generations can live according to their true selves. His journey is a reminder of how important it can be to accept who you are and utilize that identity for the good of others.