Magic Johnson is feeling especially grateful as he celebrates a major milestone in his personal life—33 years of marriage with his wife, Cookie Johnson. On Saturday, Sept. 14, the Los Angeles Lakers legend, now 65, marked the occasion by sharing a heartfelt video on X (formerly Twitter), offering a glimpse into their enduring love story.
In his touching message, Magic reflected on the importance of their relationship and the impact Cookie has had on his life. “33 years ago, I made the best decision of my life by marrying the beautiful Cookie Johnson,” Magic wrote, accompanying the sentimental video.
“I thank God every day for blessing me with my wife, best friend, and loving mother of our amazing children all wrapped into one!” he continued. “I’m beyond grateful for your heart of gold, unwavering love for our family, and irreplaceable presence in this world.” He concluded the post with a sweet, “Happy Anniversary baby!”
The video itself was a nostalgic tribute, featuring snapshots of the couple from across their decades-long relationship. It included moments from their wedding day, vacations, and even playful evenings spent dancing together. The montage was a powerful reminder of their love and commitment to one another through the years.
Magic and Cookie’s love story began long before they walked down the aisle in 1991. The couple first met in the late 1970s at a college party at Michigan State University, where a mutual friend introduced them. Magic quickly learned that Cookie’s roommate had her eye on him, but he only had eyes for Cookie, and the two soon became a couple.
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Their relationship wasn’t without its ups and downs. The pair dated on and off for over a decade before ultimately tying the knot in Lansing, Michigan, in 1991. Since then, they’ve built a strong family together. They share two children: son EJ and daughter Elisa. Cookie is also the stepmother to Andre, Magic’s son from a previous relationship with Melissa Mitchell.
The Johnsons have always enjoyed traveling, and earlier this summer, the couple took their annual European yacht vacation, making stops in beautiful locations like Venice, Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, and France.
Magic shared stunning photos from their trip, capturing scenic views, moments with family and friends, and tender shots of him and Cookie enjoying each other’s company.
Their love has weathered many challenges over the years, including one of the most difficult periods of their lives—Magic’s HIV diagnosis in 1991, just months after they were married. Magic opened up about how crucial Cookie’s support was during that time. “I think that if Cookie had left, I’d probably be dead now—no question about it,” he said, acknowledging how her strength and love helped him navigate his health journey.
Magic went on to express just how much Cookie means to him. “The reason I live today, and the reason I work as hard today, is for my wife and my family. I knew that she was a special woman when I told her she could leave, and she decided to stay with me and support me,” he shared.
As they celebrate 33 years of marriage, Magic and Cookie Johnson continue to stand as a shining example of enduring love, commitment, and resilience.
Through the highs and lows of life, their bond remains unshakable, and they continue to create beautiful memories together, year after year.