A recent episode of Jeff Teague’s Club 520 podcast is facing major heat after co-host Bishop B. Henn made a comment about NBA icon Magic Johnson that many called disrespectful and tone-deaf.
“He survived HIV and his son…” Henn said during a conversation about Johnson’s resilience, intending to praise the Hall of Famer for overcoming adversity. But the phrasing immediately drew backlash online, with fans accusing Henn of homophobia and mocking Magic’s openly gay son, EJ Johnson.
The full quote attempted to highlight how much Johnson endured, including his diagnosis, public scrutiny, and personal challenges, but many listeners weren’t buying it. Social media lit up with criticism, slamming the podcast for what some called an ignorant and offensive remark.
Magic Johnson stunned the world in 1991 when he announced he had HIV, stepping away from the NBA at the height of his career. His public battle against the disease helped shift public perception, raised awareness, and shattered stigma around HIV and AIDS. He became a trailblazer—not just in basketball, but in activism and business.
But Henn’s suggestion that Johnson somehow “survived” having a gay son struck a nerve. Even though EJ wasn’t named, the implication didn’t sit well with many. Fans quickly called out the comment as out of line, with some demanding an apology from the Club 520 team.
Neither Teague nor Henn addressed the remark during the episode. As of now, no statement has been made by the podcast. This isn’t the first time Club 520 has stirred controversy with its hot takes, but this moment may have gone too far for many listeners.
Through it all, Magic Johnson himself hasn’t responded, and probably won’t. He’s spent his life leading with class, whether breaking barriers in sports, business, or as a proud father supporting his son.
This firestorm is a reminder that words matter, especially when you’re talking about someone who changed the game on and off the court.
Source: Wellness - mensjournal.com
