Kevin Daniels Will Play Earvin 'Magic' Johnson in Magic/Bird

Kevin Daniels will join previously announced star Tug Coker in the upcoming Broadway sports drama Magic/Bird. Daniels will play Earvin “Magic” Johnson opposite Coker as Larry Bird. Written by Eric Simonson and directed by Tony nominee Thomas Kail (In The Heights), the new play focuses on Bird and Johnson's on-court rivalry and off-court friendship. No theater has been announced for the production, but the show is aiming to begin previews on February 27, 2012 and officially open on March 21. Additional casting will also be announced at a later date.

“Kevin Daniels is a great choice to play me and I look forward to his electric performance on the stage,” Johnson said in a statement.

At 6’5, Daniels played high school basketball before focusing on the arts. He made his Broadway debut in Lincoln Center's Twelfth Night. He has also appeared in off-Broadway's Up Against the Wind. His film and TV credits include And Then Came Love, Ladder 49, The Island, Kate & Leopold, Chuck and a reoccurring role as Longinus on Modern Family.

At the heart of one sports history's fiercest rivalries, Johnson and Bird battled for three championships, bragging rights, and the future of their sport in the '80s. The duo electrified the nation on the court and eventually turned their rivalry into one of the most famous friendships in professional sports.