Michael Johnson, the son of Turner Sports sportscaster Ernie Johnson Jr., has died, his father said on social media. He was 33.
“This guy we adopted from Romania in 1991 and diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy lived a miraculous life of 33 years,” Johnson Jr. said in an Instagram post that included a photo of his son.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic disorder of progressive muscular weakness, which typically affects boys, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Michael Johnson was born with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which caused respiratory issues and required him to use a ventilator, ESPN reported.
He was one of four adopted children of Ernie Johnson Jr. and his wife, Cheryl Johnson, who have six children in total, according to ESPN.
“We are heartbroken over the passing of Cheryl and Ernie’s beloved son, Michael, a true hero who uplifted and brought joy to everyone he touched,” Turner Sports said in a statement. “The family’s love, faith and commitment to one another will forever be an inspiration to us. Our deepest condolences are with Cheryl, Ernie and their family, friends and loved ones as we mourn with them.”
The NBA also tweeted condolences to the Johnson family.
The NBA mourns the passing of Michael Johnson, the son of Turner Sports’ Ernie Johnson. Michael was admired by so many around the league for his remarkable courage and perseverance. We send our heartfelt condolences to Ernie, Cheryl and their family during this difficult time.
— NBA (@NBA) October 30, 2021
Johnson Jr., who has been a host for TNT’s “Inside the NBA” since 1990, tweeted, “We are grieving and at the same time so grateful for having been witnesses to a miraculous 33 years with Michael.”
We are grieving and at the same time so grateful for having been witnesses to a miraculous 33 years with michael. 🤟 https://t.co/RQM9OCSd77
— Ernie Johnson (@TurnerSportsEJ) October 30, 2021
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