Magic Johnson is a businessman, a legendary basketball player, and a father of three. Not only did he hold an important role in his career, but he also held a more pivotal role in the eyes of his three children, serving as a dedicated father. The renowned former point guard first became a father to his now 43-year-old son Andre, born in 1981 with his then-girlfriend Melissa Mitchell. Magic, married to Earlitha “Cookie” Johnson, has two other children besides Andre: a 29-year-old daughter named Elisa and a 31-year-old son named EJ.
But what was it like to grow up in the shadow of such a symbol? While Johnson did not give his three children free rein, he respected them for who they were and vehemently defended their decisions. Here’s how Magic and his wife, Earlitha “Cookie” Johnson, raised their children and what they’re up to now.
Who Is Magic Johnson?
Magic Johnson is a famous American businessman and retired professional basketball player known for extraordinary court vision, passing abilities, and leadership. During his era, he was one of the most dominant players. Johnson spent his whole career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. He has numerous achievements throughout his career, including nine All-NBA First Team designations, three NBA Finals MVPs, three NBA Most Valuable Player Awards, and twelve All-Star game selections.
Outside of his career, Magic enjoys spending time with his wife. He is married to Earlitha “Cookie” Kelly, today known as Cookie Johnson. The two lovebirds tied the knot in a small ceremony in Lansing, Michigan, in 1991. The couple has a son, Earvin III (aka E.J. Johnson), born in 1992. In 1995, Magic and Cookie adopted their daughter Elisa. Before marrying Cookie, Magic had a son, Andre Johnson, with Melissa Mitchell.
Meet Magic Johnson wife, Cookie Johnson

Magic Johnson, the legendary NBA player, and his wife, Cookie Johnson, symbolize enduring love in Hollywood’s hearts. Their union spans over four decades and has endured struggles and hardships.
What To Know About The Children of Magic Johnson
Andre Johnson, 43

On February 20, 1981, Magic and ex-girlfriend Mitchell welcomed their only child, Andre Johnson. Andre is the most private of Magic’s children. According to Men’s Health, he has experience in business and entrepreneurship, including working for his father’s investment company, Magic Johnson Enterprises.
In 2022, Andre was appointed executive vice president of business development at SimWin Sports, a digital sports league. He also co-hosts the podcast, Please Elaborate, with Mike Dupree, where they analyse current events and culture. However, his most cherished role is that of a father, as he is raising two children with his wife, Lisa, whom he has been with since 2010.
Earvin “EJ” Johnson III, 32

Earvin “EJ” Johnson III, Magic and Cookie’s eldest child was born on June 4, 1992. From 2014 to 2016, he was a cast member of the four-season reality series Rich Kids of Beverly Hills. Due to his popularity on the show, EJ was able to star in a spin-off called EJNYC, which focused on his opulent New York City lifestyle.
Despite having only one season, the show gave EJ more opportunities to work with E!, such as serving as a commentator on “E! News,” “Fashion Police,” and “Hello Ross.” He also covered New York Fashion Week for the New York Post in 2015. EJ has been voicing Michael Collins on “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” since 2022, which is the current role. EJ has also established himself as an LGBTQ+ symbol throughout time. In 2013, EJ came out as gay.
Elisa Johnson, 30

Magic and Cookie’s adopted daughter is named Elisa Johnson. She was born in 1994 and joined the Johnson family only a few days later. She was just adopted three days after her birth, but she never felt out of place growing up. Although she has been in the spotlight her entire life due to her father, she has maintained a “normal” childhood.
Elisa Johnson Co., her own eyewear company, was launched in 2021.
Elisa expressed her interest in fashion in a July interview with Paper Magazine, citing her inability to express herself throughout high school due to uniforms. In high school, Elisa obtained her first internship with Luxottica, an Italian eyeglasses conglomerate, before studying fashion business management at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
Conclusion
Magic Johnson, the legendary basketball player and businessman, had two biological children, Andre Johnson and Earvin “EJ” Johnson III, and an adopted child, Elisa Johnson, making him the father of three children. His dedication and ability to spend quality time with his children and family amid his busy schedule have made him a role model to modern fathers and celebrity parents.
Although none of Magic Johnson’s children are professional basketball players, they did take his business side, and all of them are doing excellent jobs in their various endeavors.