“There Was a Party Going On at Planet Hollywood”: Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith Recalls How He Forged a Business Relationship With Magic Johnson
In the early 1990s, the glitz and glamour of Atlanta’s Planet Hollywood was the backdrop for a chance encounter that would spark a significant business relationship between two sports legends: NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and NBA icon Magic Johnson. Emmitt Smith, the Dallas Cowboys’ record-breaking running back, recently shared the story of how a lively night at the famed restaurant laid the foundation for a partnership that extended far beyond the sports arena, shaping his post-football career in real estate and philanthropy. This serendipitous meeting, which occurred during the week leading up to the Cowboys’ second consecutive Super Bowl matchup against the Buffalo Bills in 1993, marked the beginning of a mentorship that would guide Smith’s ambitions in the business world.
Smith, known for his relentless drive on the football field, was already a star by 1993, having helped lead the Cowboys to a Super Bowl victory the previous year. Yet, despite his athletic success, he was eager to learn about opportunities beyond sports. Walking the red carpet at Planet Hollywood, Smith recalled the electric atmosphere of the event, filled with celebrities and fans. It was here that he first crossed paths with Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan, two towering figures in basketball. The commotion behind him on the carpet signaled their arrival, and for Smith, it was a moment of awe. “I turn around, and it’s both MJs,” he recounted on the Second Acts podcast, describing the excitement of meeting two legends whose influence extended far beyond their respective courts.
At the time, Magic Johnson was already making waves as a businessman, particularly with his focus on urban development through Magic Johnson Enterprises. His ventures, which included revitalizing underserved communities with commercial projects like movie theaters and shopping centers, were groundbreaking for a former athlete. Smith, inspired by Johnson’s ability to transition from sports to business, saw an opportunity to learn from someone who was redefining what it meant to be a retired athlete. The encounter at Planet Hollywood wasn’t just a fleeting celebrity moment; it was the start of a dialogue that would influence Smith’s career trajectory.
Following that night, Smith sought Johnson’s guidance as he began exploring real estate. Having already leaned on Cowboys legend Roger Staubach, another mentor who had successfully transitioned into business, Smith was determined to build his own empire. Johnson’s approach, particularly his focus on urban revitalization, resonated with Smith, who wanted to make a tangible impact in communities. “I leaned on Roger, and I leaned on Magic to help me understand,” Smith explained. Johnson’s model of creating economic opportunities in underserved areas became a blueprint for Smith’s own ventures, leading to the formation of ESmith Legacy, a minority-owned real estate company with projects like The Zenith, a $48 million luxury development in Baltimore.
The relationship between Smith and Johnson also extended into philanthropy. In 2014, their bond was celebrated at the Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational Gala, where Johnson and his wife, Cookie, were honored with the Roger Staubach Award for their contributions to sports, business, and community service. The event, which raised $1 million for the Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, highlighted their shared commitment to giving back. Smith praised Johnson’s generosity, noting how, in just 20 minutes at the event, Johnson helped change the lives of underserved children by supporting educational and enrichment programs.
This partnership wasn’t without its challenges. Transitioning from sports to business required Smith to navigate a steep learning curve, but Johnson’s willingness to share his expertise provided a crucial foundation. Their collaboration symbolized a broader shift in how athletes approach their post-career lives, moving away from the field or court to boardrooms and community initiatives. Smith’s admiration for Johnson’s business acumen was evident as he described him as a “titan” whose blueprint for success was both inspiring and practical.
Today, Emmitt Smith’s real estate ventures and charitable efforts reflect the lessons he learned from Johnson. From luxury barbershops like The Gents Place to major development projects, Smith has carved out a legacy that mirrors Johnson’s in its ambition and community focus. That night at Planet Hollywood, amidst the flash of cameras and the buzz of celebration, was more than just a party—it was the spark that ignited a transformative business relationship, proving that connections made in the spotlight can lead to lasting impact in the world beyond sports.
