Magic Johnson Responds to Magic Johnson Faked AIDS Comments

Chris Baker and Langdon Perry of KLTK Minneapolis were on the air discussing illnesses that could be controlled with medications. Here is some of their offensive, ignorant commentary on AIDS:

Baker: “Like Magic Johnson?”

Perry: “Like Magic with his faked AIDS. Magic faked AIDS.”

Baker: “You think Magic faked AIDS for sympathy?”

Perry: “I’m convinced that Magic faked AIDS.”

Baker: “Me too.”

Magic was diagnosed with HIV, not AIDS, in 1991. He retired from the NBA immediately at age 32.

Johnson issued a statement Thursday saying he was "outraged that Chris Baker and Langdon Perry would minimize such a serious and deadly issue."

"Millions are dying from HIV/AIDS, and the fact that they would make jokes about my status is unbelievable," Johnson said. "Chris, Langdon and KTLK should use their power in a more positive light by encouraging people to get tested for this disease instead of making up such ridiculous lies."

Magic's wealth is keeping him alive, but it's dangerous to suggest that HIV isn't a serious disease and treatable with medication. Unless the radio hosts are board-certified physicians, they should not be commenting on the health status of anyone.

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