The Tournament of Roses named Ervin “Magic” Johnson its 2026 grand marshal for its 137th Rose Parade.
Johnson, a legendary former professional athlete, whose career with the Los Angeles Lakers throughout the 1980s personified the coming year’s parade’s theme: “The Magic in Teamwork.”
Johnson joins an eclectic mix of astronauts, entertainers, military leaders, politicians, sports stars, well-known figures from the worlds of business, journalism and science — a cartoon character and two beloved puppets — on a list that dates back to the 1890 inaugural Rose Parade.
How many do you remember or recognize?
2020s
2020 – Laurie Hernández, Rita Moreno and Gina Torres
2021 – None ( parade cancelled amid coronavirus pandemic .)
2022 – LeVar Burton
2023 – Gabby Giffords
2024 – Audra