(East Los Angeles, CA) [From The Editor’s Desk]: Attention, all of our viewers, followers, and longtime fans of the legendary Los Angeles Laker, 2002 inductee to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Please take note that the Rose Parade Committee has named him the Grand Marshal of this incredible worldwide event scheduled for Thursday, January 1st, in the renowned City of Pasadena.

Take a quick timeout to review the Committee’s full press release, which provides the public with information on the selection of Magic as the Grand Marshal of this globally appealing event. This is a great choice to lead one of the most-followed parades, which will be watched by many thousands in person and by millions more on television, attracting enthusiasts from local to national and ultimately to global audiences. The annual Tournament of Roses Parade now showcases one of the “Best” in our country, if not the “Best in the World!”

(PASADENA, Calif.) On October 8, 2025, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® proudly announced that Earvin “Magic” Johnson, a legendary athlete, visionary entrepreneur, and transformative philanthropist, would serve as the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Rose Parade® presented by Honda.

Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens announced on the front steps of the iconic Tournament House as Johnson made a grand entrance to “Do You Remember the Time” by Michael Jackson. Johnson’s selection as Grand Marshal ties seamlessly into this year’s parade theme: “The Magic in Teamwork.” With his name in the theme, it feels meant to be. Some call it a coincidence; we call it Magic!

Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s influence has extended far beyond the basketball court. A five-time NBA champion, three-time MVP, and Olympic gold medalist, he is celebrated not only as one of the greatest players in basketball history but also as a dynamic force in business and philanthropy. As Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, he has transformed communities through investments, partnerships, and opportunities that uplift and inspire.

Still a commanding presence in the sports world, he co-owns the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball, Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA, Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Football Club, the Washington Commanders of the NFL, the eSports franchise Team Liquid, and most recently joined the ownership group for the National Women’s Soccer League’s Washington Spirit in September 2024.

Johnson also helped launch LA Rises, a private-sector recovery initiative that is directing significant resources toward rebuilding efforts in Southern California communities, hardest hit by wildfires, including Altadena. Johnson has also visited the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena to support children and families affected by the Eaton Fire.

In January 2025, Johnson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation’s highest civilian honor, from President Joe Biden for his exemplary contributions and impact in business, sports and philanthropy across the world.

As Grand Marshal, Johnson will ride down Colorado Boulevard, ushering in the new year with the joy, beauty, and tradition the Parade is known for, and will also participate in the pre-game ceremony at the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the 112th Rose Bowl Game® presented by Prudential.

From dazzling playmaking on the court to visionary leadership in business and unwavering commitment to communities, Magic Johnson continues to inspire millions around the world. The Pasadena Tournament of Roses is thrilled to celebrate his extraordinary journey and the happiness he brings everywhere he goes!

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[Notes About Viewing The Parade]:

The parade begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. PST and can be watched on KTLA Channel 5, which offers widespread, commercial-free coverage beginning with pre-parade shows as early as 6:00 a.m. PST. 

Digital & Streaming Options – For those without cable, the parade will be streamed live on multiple platforms: Major Services: Peacock (NBC simulcast), Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Fubo; Free Streaming: Pluto TV (on the “Christmas Channel”), Samsung TV Plus, Christmas Plus, and the official Tournament of Roses website.; Network Apps: The ABC and NBC apps also provide live feeds for authenticated users. 

[About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses®]

The Pasadena Tournament of Roses® is a volunteer organization that hosts America’s New Year Celebration® with the Rose Parade® presented by Honda, the Rose Bowl Game® presented by Prudential, and a variety of accompanying events. The Association’s 935 Members supply more than 80,000 volunteer hours, which will drive the success of the 137th Rose Parade, themed “The Magic In Teamwork,” on Thursday, January 1, 2026, followed by the College Football Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential. Visit www.tournamentofroses.com, follow us on Instagram, Tiktok, YouTube, X and like us on Facebook.