In the HBO series “Winning Time,” Quincy Isaiah undertook the formidable task of embodying the iconic figure Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr. Revered as one of the most significant point guards in basketball history, Johnson’s pivotal role in securing five NBA championships for the Lakers throughout 13 seasons remains unparalleled.
Isaiah shared his approach to encapsulating Johnson’s essence: “I believe the key is to humanize this individual who has recently clinched a championship and is grappling with life’s intricacies. To render this towering persona relatable to the common person, I’ve found it imperative to distill it down… Our ability to achieve this hinges on a well-crafted script, a talented ensemble, and delving into the raw human emotions that Season 2 unveils.”
Throughout the season, Johnson confronts a series of trials, including a knee injury and a fierce rivalry with Larry Bird from the Boston Celtics. Isaiah remarked on the profound themes woven into the narrative, such as self-doubt and uncertainty, even for someone as accomplished as Johnson. “The beauty lies in witnessing the doubts that assail him and questioning his prowess compared to Bird. It’s a reminder that even the most triumphant individuals grapple with self-assurance,” Isaiah reflected.
Season 2 also delves into Johnson’s dynamic with the Lakers’ coach Pat Riley, portrayed by Adrien Brody. Isaiah shared his insights into this aspect of the show, saying, “Acting alongside Adrien was a delightful experience, and it allowed us to delve deeper into the bond between Magic and Pat. From an announcer to an assistant coach to head coach, their relationship evolves as Magic finds someone he can confide in.” Isaiah praised Brody for portraying Riley as a figure who balances checking Johnson’s ego with uplifting him when needed, noting, “Adrien captures this duality brilliantly.”
Brody, in turn, emphasized the importance of showcasing the struggles of revered figures, stating that it’s a “vital” reminder that even icons face challenges akin to those of everyday individuals. He expressed his admiration for Riley and shared that delving into his transition was a resonant experience. “It’s a journey I relate to, unexpected as it was from my initial understanding of Pat Riley,” Brody admitted.
Brody commended Isaiah for infusing vitality, joy, and humanity into his portrayal of Magic Johnson, and he described their on-screen dynamic as effortlessly harmonious. “My immense respect for Quincy, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed his company. This chemistry translated seamlessly on screen,” Brody praised.
The cast of the series includes a lineup of talented actors such as John C. Reilly, Jason Clarke, Gaby Hoffmann, Jason Segel, Hadley Robinson, Sean Patrick Small, Michael Chiklis, DeVaughn Nixon, Solomon Hughes, Tamera Tomakili, Brett Cullen, Stephen Adly Guirgis, Spencer Garrett, Molly Gordon, Joey Brooks, Delante Desouza, Jimel Atkins, Austin Aaron, McCabe Slye, Thomas Mann, Gillian Jacobs, and Rob Morgan.
“Winning Time,” helmed by executive producers Adam McKay and Kevin Messick of Hyperobject Industries, boasts a creative team including showrunner and co-creator Max Borenstein, co-creator Jim Hecht, director Salli Richardson-Whitfield, and producers Scott Stephens, Rodney Barnes, and Jason Shuman.
Catch “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty,” airing on Sundays on HBO and available for streaming on Max.
