EJ Johnson Shares Candid Insights on Dating Life and Personal Identity
In a revealing podcast appearance, EJ Johnson, the son of Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson, opened up about their personal dating experiences and journey with identity. The conversation with host Carlos King provided a platform for Johnson to discuss attraction, social spaces, and family dynamics with remarkable honesty.
Dating Preferences That Defy Expectations
Johnson, who first gained recognition through the reality series Rich Kids of Beverly Hills, explained that their romantic preferences often surprise people. While identifying as gay, Johnson revealed an unexpected pattern in their attractions.
"I don't attract gay men and I'm not attracted to gay men. It's just not a thing," Johnson stated clearly during the podcast conversation. This revelation challenges common assumptions about dating within LGBTQ communities.
Johnson expanded on this point by describing why certain social environments feel less natural for their dating life. "That's why I don't really go to gay clubs, and I don't go to gay things, because the men that I attract are not there."
Finding Connection in Unexpected Places
According to Johnson, attention and connection typically come from men in traditionally straight social settings. This pattern has been consistent for years but became more pronounced as Johnson's personal style evolved toward more feminine presentation.
"It has always been that way, but now it's even more so, now that I definitely present in more of a feminine way. Because also, it's like, my energy is that," Johnson explained, suggesting that their authentic self-expression attracts compatible partners.
Johnson also noted that some of the men they've connected with previously dated women for significant portions of their lives before their meeting, further emphasizing the unconventional nature of these relationships.
A Flexible Approach to Labels and Identity
When discussing labels and identity, Johnson expressed a remarkably flexible and open-minded perspective. "I think they're just labels, you know? That's why I don't care. When I'm dating someone, I don't care what you identify as, or what you call yourself, as long as you're happy being who you are."
This philosophy extends beyond romantic relationships to encompass Johnson's broader approach to personal identity and social categorization.
Family Conversations About Gender Identity
Johnson also reflected on important family discussions about identity, particularly how these conversations unfolded with their parents. The topic came to the forefront during a direct talk that clarified how Johnson wanted to be addressed moving forward.
"I told them on my birthday in June. We're not doing 'he,' we're not doing 'man,' we're not doing 'gay,'" Johnson recalled. "When you're telling people about who you are, you are telling them. You're not looking for acceptance. I'm not looking for validation, I'm telling you what's going down."
Johnson described their parents' response as understanding and supportive as they processed this significant change. "They were like, 'Oh ok. We'll do our best to understand that.'"
A particularly meaningful moment occurred after Johnson moved away for college when their father visited and embraced them warmly, demonstrating the family's evolving understanding and acceptance.
Continuing Journey in Entertainment and Advocacy
Today, Johnson continues to speak openly about identity, relationships, and personal growth while building a diverse career in entertainment. This includes voice work on The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, where they contribute to representation in media.
Through these public discussions and professional endeavors, Johnson is helping to broaden conversations about gender identity, sexual orientation, and the diverse ways people experience attraction and connection in contemporary society.
