Legendary NBA star Magic Johnson is making it known that he is "very proud" of his son Earvin Johnson III aka EJ who was recently seen holding hands with another man in Los Angeles.
TMZ recorded the 20-year-old carrying a purse and walking hand-in-hand with his unidentified boyfriend on LA's Sunset Strip on Monday night.
This was the first time that EJ, one of Magic's three children, was seen with his boyfriend publicly, though he did not necessarily hide his sexual orientation.
As a student at the prestigous New York University, Magic and his wife, Earlitha "Cookie" Kelly said that they couldn't be prouder of him. "Cookie and I love EJ and support him in every way," Magic told TMZ. "We're very proud of him."
The LA Lakers icon and Dodgers owner has been a longtime supporter for gay rights. When revealed he was HIV-positive in the early 90's, rumors about his sexuality arose. Instead of recoiling from the spotlight and the speculation, the former Los Angeles Lakers player used his platform to spread awareness and tolerance.
In addition, in 2008, Magic opposed California's Proposition 8, a ban against same-sex marriage in the state.
"Prop 8 singles out one group of Californians to be treated differently -- including members of our family, our friends, and our coworkers," he said in a recorded telephone message sent to California voters. "That is not what California is about. So this Tuesday, vote no on Proposition 8. It is unfair and wrong. Thanks."
Watch the video of EJ below.
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