Earvin “Magic” Johnson was intrigued at a party in the ’70s the moment he turned to future bride Aearleatha Kelly (aka Cookie).
“I never asked her to dance,” he reminded people in 2016. And what he did. He continued to get her number and the two communicated throughout the Christmas holiday. By the time the school opened in the next semester, the two were a couple.
They went through several ups and downs, but the pair got married on September 14, 1991 in Magic’s hometown in Michigan. They had the Magic HIV diagnosis, most notably in 1991, and experienced some public difficulties.
“It was difficult. We cried for a few days just by hugging each other,” the former Laker told people. “(Cookie) That’s all we knew, so I thought it was a death sentence.”
Still, Cookie endorses her husband and explains why she wore a white suit to stand by magic on the day she revealed her diagnosis to the world.
“I was wearing that white suit,” she told Gale King. “For me, I didn’t want to wear something dark or black because that’s what it symbolizes. And the white suit basically represents brightness, like (and) positivity.”
Below, see photos of Cookie Johnson and his family, the magician celebrating their 34-year marriage.
Where it all began
Magic Johnson Twitter
After meeting at Michigan State in the ’70s, Magic married Cookie Johnson at an intimate ceremony held in Lansing, Michigan on September 14, 1991.
through thick and thin
Harry Langdon/Getty
Shortly after the couple got married, Magic publicly revealed his HIV diagnosis on November 7, 1991.
In an interview with Gale King in 2021, Lakers legend revealed that telling Cookie about his diagnosis is the most difficult part.
“It was tough because I loved her so much and didn’t want to hurt her,” Magi said. “I played against some of the best basketball players in the world, right? I’m in the championship. I’m in the 9th (NBA) final, so I know the pressure.
In 2016, Magic also revealed that he gave Cookie the option to leave the marriage, and that her choice to stick to his side saved his life.
“If Cookie left, I think I’d probably be dead now — I have no doubt about that,” Magic told people. “The reason I live today and why I work so hard today is because of my wife and family.”
pull
Steve Dykes/Getty
Johnson managed to pull out. In 1994 he was announced as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, and Cookie was by his side and shining with pride.
I’ll fall in love forever
Magic Johnson Instagram
Celebrating his 32nd wedding anniversary in 2023, Johnson shared this cute throwback from his young lover in a video homage to his wife. “I would like to thank my beautiful wife, my love, and my partner for your eternal love and encouragement you have given me every day,” he wrote in part.
“Your love for Christ, your dedication to our family and your heart for service (others) continues to be the best man I can.
Young family
Robin Platzer/Getty Images
Magic and Cookie welcomed their son, Evin “EJ” Johnson III, together on June 4, 1992. He joined his brother Andre Johnson. In 1994, Johnson completed the family with the birth of his daughter, Elisa.
Show support
jp aussenard/wiremage
All the families, including the Magic family, were on the deck to support basketball legends as they were honored in 2001 with the star of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Classical Retrospective
Magic Johnson/Instagram
The couple seemed relaxed as this classic throwback magic was shared to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
Johnson Family Adventure
Mathew Imaging/FilmMagic
It was an adventure day as the family celebrated Magic’s 47th birthday at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California in 2006.
Happy Day
Magic Johnson/Instagram
The two lovebirds seemed to have fallen in love on a whim if this explosion was from the past.
Movie night
JC Olivera/WireMage
The family was dressed for the Nines in April 2022. Everyone, including Andre’s wife Lisa, were attending the premiere of Apple’s Call Me Magim.
On vacation
Magic Johnson/Instagram
One thing is for sure, the Johnsons love to take vacations in style. The above couple is depicted in 2023 with their loved ones on a gorgeous yacht.
People at the party
Cookie Johnson/Instagram
The couple raised it with a few fox ensemble for “Soul Night”.
Eternal Date
Magic Johnson/Instagram
They later cut it down for a relaxing dinner.
It’s doing well
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic/Getty Images
The whole gang was all smiles as they supported Elizabeth Taylorball in 2023 at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
From friends to family
Cookie Johnson/Instagram
When it comes to the company, Johnson knows more. And their guest list won’t be disappointed. The above couple is portrayed with Judge Greg Matisse and his wife Linda Reese, Michael Jordan, his wife Yvette Prieto, and Samuel L. Jackson and his wife Latanya Richardson.
Go, Commander!
Twitter/MagicJohnson
“My family and I are rocking the stolen goods of a new commander on a Greek yacht today!” Laker legend bent lightly.
Serial businessmen bet on other business ventures, including the Washington Commander, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Los Angeles Sparks, the Los Angeles Football Club and the Washington Spirit.
catch up with Johnson
Magic Johnson/Instagram
In the summer of 2025, the whole family took this photo on the holidays, followed by the whole family, including Magic and Cookie’s two grandchildren, Gigi and Avery.
