Former Los Angeles Lakers icon Earvin “Magic” Johnson stunned fans and Pasadena officials alike on Wednesday when he was revealed as the grand marshal for the 137th Rose Parade, a key role that also ties him intimately to the Rose Bowl festivities.
The announcement, made at Tournament House in Pasadena, marks a distinct pivot in Johnson‘s post-basketball trajectory, from hardwood royalty to ceremonial figurehead for one of the nation’s most celebrated New Year’s traditions.
Johnson, now 66, is expected to ride the 5 1/2 mile route on Jan. 1 down Colorado Boulevard and later participate in the coin toss ahead of the 112th Rose Bowl.
The selection aligns with this year’s parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” which organizers say intentionally incorporates his nickname.
“What a blessing it is to, first, be here today and to get such an incredible, prestigious honor of being the grand marshal of the Rose Parade,” Johnson said at the announcement.
“I’m still in disbelief because, as a kid growing up in Lansing, Michigan, on New Year’s Day this was a thrill of a lifetime just to wake up to see who was the grand marshal and watch the parade. And I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would one day become the grand marshal.
“So I’m just blessed. I know what it means. I know that you had many great choices of other people, so I don’t take this lightly. I love this city and this is just another thing that the city has given back to me.”
Johnson added, “They didn’t watch me play basketball, but they’ll be able to see me in that car.”
Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens acknowledged the fitting symbolism: “I don’t think we’ve ever had a grand marshal in the Tournament of Roses history whose nickname has literally been in our tournament theme.”
This isn’t just a ceremonial gig for Johnson. In recent decades, he has built a formidable presence across sports, business, and philanthropy, providing context for why this moment resonates beyond the parade.
Johnson‘s storied basketball résumé includes 13 NBA seasons, all with the Lakers, earning five championships and three MVP awards. He also played a part in the 1992 “Dream Team” that captured Olympic gold.
Off the court, Johnson has become a multi-industry trailblazer. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025.
When Johnson steps into his role as grand marshal, he will follow a lineage of sports icons chosen for this honor. Past marshals have included Arnold Palmer, Vin Scully, and Billie Jean King, who held the title in 2025.
This selection carries emotional gravity as well. Johnson spoke of his childhood watching the Rose Parade on television and never imagining he’d one day lead it. Now, he’ll be at the center of a cherished cultural ritual.
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