This family moment is fifty shades of adorable.
At the premiere of the movie “Splitsville” in Los Angeles, Melanie Griffith graced the red carpet alongside her daughter Dakota Johnson, whom she had with her ex-husband Don Johnson. Notably, Dakota Johnson stars opposite Adria Arjona in this film, having previously gained fame from her role in “Fifty Shades of Grey.
On August 19th for the film screening, I chose an elegant outfit that truly made me feel confident. I donned a tailored, pristine white double-breasted blazer paired with wide-leg pants of the same hue. To complete my ensemble, I styled my blond hair in a sophisticated updo and opted for cozy beige sneakers to ensure comfort throughout the event.
Simultaneously, Dakota dazzled in a stunning silver strapless Gucci gown that left mouths agape. She affectionately embraced her mom, both of them beaming for the cameras. To finish off her ensemble, the 35-year-old chose to style her long hair straight and sleek, and applied a subtle nude lipstick.
That heartwarming mother-daughter instance was a seldom seen appearance of them in public. The last time they were photographed together was at the premiere of the movie “Slip” by Boat Rocker & TeaTime Pictures, which took place in 2023.
And though Dakota Johnson and Melanie Griffith, both mothers to Alexander Bauer (aged 39) with their respective exes Steven Bauer and Stella Banderas (aged 28) with Antonio Banderas, might not frequently attend events together, it doesn’t imply they don’t support each other in various other aspects of life.
As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to share some personal insights about my journey into Hollywood. I’m grateful to say that from the very beginning, my parents have been an immense source of encouragement and support, which has significantly contributed to where I am today.
Looking back on those challenging times, I can’t forget the instances when I’d find myself at the market without enough money in my account or struggling to meet my rent payments. During those years prior to my 2015 role in Fifty Shades of Grey, as I shared in an interview with People in May, I had to humbly seek assistance from my parents – a help I’m deeply grateful for, as they were there to support me financially when I needed it most.
The actress from Madame Web acknowledged that assistance arrived following years of warnings they had given her about entering the challenging industry, advice she acknowledges was well-intended.
According to what she shared with W Magazine in 2022, it was clear that they aimed to give me as much of a childhood experience as possible.
For more on Dakota’s family, keep reading.
Melanie Griffith was just 14-years-old when she first met Don Johnson (eight years her senior), who was acting in the movie “The Harrad Experiment” alongside her mother, renowned actress Tippi Hedren, in 1973.
In 1989, Tippi confided to People that she “developed a strong affection for him extremely quickly,” which she described as being similar to an adolescent infatuation.
At another point in time, Melanie began living with Don when she was fifteen. Two years later, they got engaged and decided to get married secretly in Las Vegas on January 8, 1976. However, it’s worth noting that Don was known to have been out with a beauty queen the very night before their wedding.
Melanie shared with People, “It seemed like a good idea to get married, but it didn’t work out. I got married as a way to bring an end to our relationship.” Afterwards, they nullified the marriage.
During the initial part of the 1980s, Don was in a romantic relationship with Patti D’Arbanville, who was both an actress and a muse for Andy Warhol. Interestingly enough, she also inspired a song titled “Lady D’Arbanville” by Cat Stevens.
In 2024, Don reminisced to People about a remarkable encounter. He explained that while working on a film in New York, he found himself at Andy Warhol’s factory. There, he stumbled upon an unforgettable sight – his first son’s mother, standing naked on a table. This striking moment marked what appeared to be the very first cover photo shoot for Interview magazine. Her beauty and allure left him spellbound.
In 1973, their initial encounter took place, as Patti graced the cover of Interview, although not as its first cover star. However, it wasn’t until 1981 that they began a relationship. According to folklore, this transpired during a visit Don made to an L.A. restaurant with his then-girlfriend Tanya Tucker, who was replaced by Patti at the end of the night.
“She moved in that night,” he told People in 1984. “And we stayed in bed for about eight days.”
Don and Patti welcomed son Jesse Wayne Johnson on Dec. 7, 1982.
At that moment, Don confided in People magazine that he informed Patti he wasn’t ready to marry at the present time, and she reciprocated by expressing to him her disinterest in getting married as well.
The actor famed for Miami Vice acknowledged that it was his young family who played a significant role in initiating his journey towards sobriety, as he struggled with substance abuse issues.
On one particular morning in 1984, he recounted to People, I strolled into the breakfast room where the sun was shining brightly, birds were chirping cheerily, and Patti was feeding the baby. As I stumbled in, took a seat, and gazed upon them, it struck me that if I didn’t take action, she might depart. Consequently, I declared to her, “Patti, I struggle with alcoholism and drug addiction, and I intend to make a change.
In 1985, he parted ways with Patti, who has since gone through three marriages and divorces, and now shares three children with her most recent former spouse.
Jesse has talents as both a musician and an actor. His first screen appearance was in a 2001 episode of his father’s long-running police drama, “Nash Bridges”. More recently, he had a guest role on the latest television success, “Doctor Odyssey”.
Jesse was born and raised in Aspen, Colorado, but earned a theater degree from Occidental College located in Southern California. His many ski-themed photos on Instagram suggest that he remains an enthusiast of snow, and, given his close-knit family ties, it’s clear that they are important to him as well.
Apart from that, he’s the vocalist and guitarist for the band named Blame Baby. As he told Rock Wired, their music reminds one of an era where things seemed a bit less complicated and more direct, characterized by rock music.
In my expertise, I’d like to share an intriguing tidbit: I once walked in the shoes of Stephen Bauer, the renowned actor known for his role in Scarface. During that period, we collaborated on a hilarious project titled She’s in the Army Now, and our paths intertwined in matrimony from 1983 to 1987. A captivating chapter of my life indeed!
In our shared history, we’ve had fewer public discussions about our marriage that brought forth our son Alexander, but even as exes, we managed to maintain a cordial relationship. This was evident when we graciously appeared together at the premiere of Dark Tourist in 2013, showing a hint of comfort and camaraderie.
In the year 2020, Melanie shared with People that her relationship with her three former husbands had evolved into friendships. She expressed a deep affection for each of them, saying “I hold them all in my heart.
Alexander Griffith Bauer was born on the 22nd of August, 1985, and after his parents’ divorce, he resided predominantly with his mother in Los Angeles.
Despite being more reserved compared to some of his relatives, he’s often spotted at family events, even those focused on the Johnsons. Although he has dabbled in writing and acting, his primary work has been in cinema, largely off-screen as a grip.
Melanie posted on Instagram in 2021, ‘Happy National Sons Day!’ She was referring to Jesse and Alex in the picture she shared. ‘What amazing young men… I adore you both deeply.’
Like moths to a flame, Melanie and Don got back together…eventually.
In 1987, he proposed the concept of inviting Melanie to appear as a refined madam on Miami Vice. Following this, their relationship resumed, albeit intermittently. During the periods apart, Don pursued Barbara Streisand, while Melanie dated an investment banker. However, in 1988, Don played a significant role in helping Melanie overcome her addiction by urging her to seek treatment at the Hazelden Foundation in Minnesota, which she did in May of that year.
In her interview with People magazine in 1989, she said he had suggested for around two years that she should seek treatment at Hazelden. She explained, “That gives off the impression I was a drug addict or something. But being an alcoholic doesn’t require that kind of label. Even one drink can be lethal.” Don, a member of AA since 1983, provided continuous support throughout her journey.
Melanie was pregnant when they wed again on June 26, 1989.
Don shared with People magazine that we’re as harmonious as the Ozzie and Harriet family. They mentioned that Alexander resides with us and Jesse often drops by. Melanie further remarked, “We all desire a little girl.
Dakota Mayi Johnson was born Oct. 4, 1989.
She’s been living the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle since then, beginning her film career in 1999’s “Crazy in Alabama” (which starred her mother and was directed by her stepfather, Antonio Banderas), and later gaining significant recognition through the “Fifty Shades” series, “A Bigger Splash”, “How to Be Single”, “Suspiria”, and “Madam Web”.
She expressed her disdain for discussions about “nepotism babies,” finding them extremely irritating, primarily due to the fact that many people often follow in their family’s footsteps by joining their businesses.
In 2025, she recounted to her co-star Pedro Pascal from Materialists, that in the past, she had begun trying out for roles in Elle. There were periods of waiting and then, yes, “I found myself needing assistance from my parents,” she confided. “I’m incredibly thankful for their support, but it was far from enjoyable. The auditioning process, as you might agree, can be incredibly challenging.
In 1996, Melanie and Don went their separate ways, yet a strong bond continues between her, her former stepparents – whom she still considers family – and her half-siblings, who she views as nothing less than her full siblings.
Dakota shared with The Hollywood Reporter in 2021 that she had numerous caregivers throughout her upbringing, including her parents, step-parents, nannies, tutors, friends, teachers, and even some significant others’ parents. She was eager to absorb knowledge from everyone she encountered, and this learning mindset has persisted in her life. Dakota attributes her unique character to the diverse experiences of her upbringing.
Dakota was in a romantic relationship with Chris Martin, the lead vocalist of Coldplay, from 2017 until their separation in 2025. According to reports by People magazine in June, the couple, who maintained such privacy that they generated more rumors about a breakup than engagement speculation over the years, have finally parted ways permanently.
In my expert opinion on lifestyle matters, this couple, living in the picturesque town of Malibu, had a knack for maintaining their public image. It was common for them to fuel speculation about their relationship status, only to later dispel those rumors by making an appearance together or subtly hinting they were still on good terms. This strategy was effective in keeping the curiosity piqued and the public guessing.
In a similar family setup, Dakota took on the role of a caring mother figure towards Apple Martin and Moses Martin, Chris’ kids from his former marriage with Gwyneth Paltrow, with a warm and welcoming attitude.
“I love those kids like my life depends on it,” Dakota told Bustle in 2024. “With all my heart.”
In 2018, Gwyneth tied the knot with Brad Falchuk, a father of two. In a 2023 Instagram Q&A on Stories, she revealed that she and his girlfriend at the time, Dakota, were more than just acquaintances, stating they were “really good friends.” She went on to describe Dakota as an “endearing and fantastic individual.
Melanie and Antonio Banderas were married to different partners when they first met during the filming of the 1995 comedy “Too Much.” By the next year, both had ended their previous marriages and tied the knot in London on May 14, 1996. Their daughter Stella was born four months later.
The couple’s relationship ended in June 2014, as they announced in a statement that they were divorcing amicably, showing mutual respect and consideration for one another, their loved ones, and the cherished memories shared over the years.
In much the same way Melanie had stayed near Don, she also maintained a close relationship with Antonio, who has been in partnership with Nicole Kimpel since 2015.
In an interview with Fox News Digital in 2023, Antonio shared, “My ex-wife is more like a cherished friend of mine. There’s no ill feeling towards her whatsoever. She’s an exceptional woman, and I admire our 20-year history together, as it was nothing short of beautiful.
He also acknowledged that we’ve had challenging times, but what stands out to me as eternal are the wonderful moments we shared. Among these treasured moments, there’s one in particular that involves our children and family.
And when he travels to L.A., he added, the first thing he does is call Melanie.
Antonio said, “We’re going out for a family dinner, it’s just a gathering of us all. This is really significant – not just for us, but for the whole family.
Stella Del Carmen Banderas was born Sept. 24, 1996.
Antonio shared with Fox News that his daughter, a co-founder of the perfume company Lightbound (established in 2021), possesses an intellectually minded perspective towards cinematography.
He mentioned that his daughter is currently working on short films, learning the ropes of direction, and even has a background in acting. She’s also planning to delve into directing commercials. In his opinion, she’ll likely progress to directing full-length movies. By the way, they later collaborated in a Mercedes advertisement that was shown in Europe.
Now, Stella is arranging her wedding after getting engaged to entrepreneur Alex Gruszynski in August 2024. She announced the exciting news through a post saying, “I’ll be spending eternity with my favorite person on the planet!
Melanie posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, ‘He proposed! Kneeling before her… she accepted! Stella and Alex are now fiancés, their beautiful love story starting in preschool. A testament to true, profound affection!’
At the 22nd Annual ELLE Women In Hollywood Awards in 2015, Dakota, also known as Grandma Tippi, Mother Melanie, and Sister Stella, harmoniously matched their outfits.
In the bustling ’90s, I crossed paths with Kelley Phleger, a cherished nursery school teacher who once shared a life with our current California Governor, Gavin Newsom, at a festive gathering thrown by none other than then-Mayor Willie Brown of San Francisco. Our romantic journey began in the latter part of 1997.
On April 29, 1999, they got married at the Bay Area residence of Gordon Getty, an oil family heir, and they’ve been a couple ever since.
In 2024, Don shared with People, “It’s about kindness, trust, and respect – qualities we share among ourselves. We’re more than just partners; we’re companions, confidants, and best of friends. She is truly extraordinary.
Celebrating their 26th wedding anniversary on Instagram, Kelley expressed that looking back at the memories that started 26 years ago, there’s not a single day they would change. Together, they have faced all challenges, nothing has ever weakened their bond of love. They’ve built a large, beautiful family and have never been more blessed. As they move forward, they continue to walk hand in hand.
In more recent times, acting life has become less intense for the actor compared to his Miami Vice era. Back then, the set required constant security as crowds of women eagerly sought him out, hoping to meet the charming Sonny Crockett character he portrayed.
In an interview with People, Don expressed that maintaining a balance between work and life is challenging for actors as films and television series tend to consume one’s time. However, he finds himself in a fortunate position where he can select roles carefully. He frequently prefers supporting roles because they offer him the pleasure he seeks in his profession while allowing him to avoid extensive working hours and spend more time with his family.
Don and Kelley’s first child together, Atherton Grace Johnson, was born Dec. 28, 1999.
As a child, she would occasionally join her parents in public, but for the most part, she had an ordinary childhood in Santa Barbara, California. Later, she pursued photography studies at USC.
Last year, I had the exciting honor of stepping onto the Met Gala stage for the very first time alongside my dear companion Dakota. Not only was this my debut on the iconic event’s red carpet, but it also marked my runway debut as part of the extraordinary Christian Cowan x The Powerpuff Girls show. Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to model for the esteemed Bello magazine, strutted my stuff for Gucci during fashion week, and even starred in a music video for my talented brother’s band. As a lifestyle enthusiast, every moment on these stages feels like a dream come true!
Regarding Dakota, my connection with her is complex since she’s not just my sister; she’s also my closest confidante,” she shared with Glamour Spain in 2019, referring to her famous sibling. “For years, despite the age gap, she has consistently regarded me as a peer.
Jasper Breckenridge Johnson was born June 6, 2002.
1) In high school located in Santa Barbara, he played basketball. His father often highlights their impressive height on Instagram. Additionally, it’s mentioned in his athletic recruiting profile that his parents have consistently attended all his games, offering continuous support throughout his journey.
In addition to dreaming about playing basketball at the college level, he also mentioned his plans to study business and earn a bachelor’s degree within four years, ultimately aiming for a career in that field.
Deacon James Johnson completed our current family lineage on April 29, 2006, leaving Don feeling ecstatic, as expressed by his representative, “six times over the moon.
His Instagram, similar to Jasper’s, is set to private, but a clue to the institution where he studies can be found in his bio – “Sb usc,” suggesting he attends the University of Southern California.
Among his dear ones, Deacon is affectionately known as “Chap.” For instance, on his birthday, his mother might write, “Happy 19th Birthday, Chap (Deacon James)! We adore you and couldn’t wish for a better YOUNGEST! You’re the cool one!
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2025-08-21 01:48