Magic Johnson sat down with TMZ's Harvey Levin for a lengthy interview about his gay son EJ, who came out publicly earlier this week, and the importance of expressing to him that he supports and loves him no matter what. Johnson said he wanted to prepare him for what to expect when he came out and protect him as he did so.
Watch, AFTER THE JUMP…
Johnson also talks about the hate EJ received on various blogs after coming out and homophobia in the Black community.
Said Johnson: "I think this is gonna be good for a lot of young Black people who want to come out. EJ is really gonna help a lot of young people."
Johnson also talks about what would happen if a gay player came out on the L.A. Dodgers.
"I would protect him. That's what I am. I'm a protector. I protect my family. That's why I was really upset about people attacking my son…First of all, as an owner you really got to support the person, and then help educate the public. We stand with this player. We're going to support this player."
Watch, AFTER THE JUMP…
Magic Johnson on talking to EJ about being gay for the first time:
On the hateful reactions to EJ on African-American blogs and how Magic feels about it:
On athletes coming out of the closet:
