Kathie Lee & Hoda: Magic Johnson Launching Aspire TV Network

Kathie Lee & Hoda: Magic Johnson Interview

Kathie Gifford and Hoda Kotb talked with Earvin “Magic” Johnson, NBA legend, about his latest endeavor. Johnson is set to launch his own television network called Aspire on Comcast and his very own debit card.

Magic Johnson: NBA Legend

Magic Johnson played point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won five NBA championships during the 1980s. Johnson abruptly retired in 1991 after finding out he had contracted HIV. He made a couple attempts to come out of retirement in 1992 and 1996.

Magic Johnson: Businessman

Since his retirement from the NBA, Magic Johnson has made quite a name for himself in the business world. Johnson runs Magic Johnson Enterprises. The company consists of subsidiaries including a nationwide chain of movie theaters, a promotional company and a movie studio. In March 2012, Johnson and his ownership group purchased professional baseball team, the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Magic Johnson: Aspire Television Network

Magic Johnson’s newest project is to launch his very own television network…watch out Oprah! The TV network, called Aspire, will be on Comcast, which is the owner of NBC Universal. With the network, Johnson wants to have family programming for African Americans. He said he wants to bring the family back to watching positive, good content. The network already has some great sponsors in Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart and L’Oreal. Johnson said they will start out airing movies that has already been done, but they are building towards all new original content. Johnson said he always tries to bring the best to the minority community.

Magic Card: Magic Johnson Debit Card

Magic Johnson said another thing to look forward to from him is he is going to launch a debit card with One West and MasterCard to help minorities with their money and understanding of money. Johnson said the debit card will be called the Magic Card.