This is Awful

[HopeandCope]

Typical Ignorance    http://nba.fanhouse.com/2008/10/09/magic-johnson-rips-radio-talk-show-hosts-who-said-he-faked-aids/

Magic Johnson Rips Radio Talk Show Hosts Who Said He 'Faked AIDS'
Posted Oct 9th 2008 8:05PM by Brett Edwards (author feed)
Radio talk show hosts are often accused of saying outrageous things, and often by people who didn't even hear them say the supposedly outrageous thing in the first place. But when speaking about a famous athlete who was forced to retire after contracting HIV, and saying that they think he "faked AIDS," I think we can all agree that's going a bit too far.

Such is the case with Minneapolis radio hosts Chris Baker and Langdon Perry, who attempted to make this joke at Magic Johnson's expense. Listen for yourself to their ridiculously insensitive comments, then we'll reconvene.

"He's the only cured AIDS guy ever." Nice. Predictably, Magic himself was not amused. His response to these clowns, after the jump.

"I am extremely disappointed in KTLK in Minneapolis. I am 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."
So many times when something like this goes down, the celebrity won't want to dignify comments like these with a response. But Magic handled it the right way, by releasing a statement and letting these guys know that they should be using their platform for something more positive.

[skeebo1969]

   Perhaps the talk show hosts thought since his name is Magic he could just make it disappear

[dixieman]

I think the radio station who have these radio hosts on the air should make them make a Public apology for their lack of information, Ignorance and compassion for people living with this Virus... and the many other diseases in this world.

[emeraldize]

651-989-5855

I was just trying to reach Chris Baker to ask just that, but I believe the show is live right now and no one is picking up the line. Earlier this a.m., it was busy, so it's not an unused line.

I haven't found a general number yet for the station. Like many other businesses, it has a rather impenetrable Contact Us via e-mail fortress.

Where there's a will there's a way. I hope others here attempt to reach him as well.

[HopeandCope]

I sent an email to the Station Manager. 

http://www.ktlkfm.com/pages/info.html?feed=261738&article=3481954

KTLK
1600 Utica Ave S, Suite 400
St. Louis Park, MN 55416

Studio: 651.989.KTLK
Office:  952.417.3000
Fax:  952.417.3001

[dixieman]

I tried calling but, I will definately send an email...

[Longislander]

I read on my homepage tonite that the station will be airing HIV/AID awareness messages as a result of this, and will work with Magic on spreading the right messages.

[skeebo1969]

   I just saw that Long...  Here is the link:

http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/8661614?MSNHPHCP&GT1=39002#

[MitchMiller]

I can't believe anyone would think Magic is faking AIDs.  Gosh... he's so bloated and his neck is the size of a small tree trunk.  He looks like he's suffering from meds side-effects.

[mecch]

There seems to be some sort of urban legend that he is cured, I think among ignorant people that don't know people can survive so long with HIV.  It just means public education must continue and change with the epidemic.  Glad Magic is still with us and glad he participates patiently to educate the ignorant.