Dakota Johnson‘s family is a bit of a tangled web—but in a good way!
In 2024, Dakota explained to Bustle that I have four siblings – four brothers and two sisters. Interestingly, my two sisters aren’t biologically related but consider themselves sisters and spend a lot of time together. Similarly, my two older brothers aren’t blood-related either, yet they are brothers in every sense of the word.
Did you catch all that?
As one of her devoted siblings, Jesse Johnson (though technically a half-brother, a term he’d probably never use in this context), graciously attended the premiere of my latest film, “Materialists” on May 7, lending his support. And here’s an interesting tidbit: My sisters, Stella Banderas and Atherton Grace Johnson, often seen together in the limelight, are not just models but also part of my family.
At one point, Dakota is the sole offspring of twice-married Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson, both of whom had children from prior relationships when they remarried and later added four more to their family following their divorce.
At times turbulent childhood experiences may have prepared her well, enabling her to quickly adapt to her role as a stepmother.
Dakota deeply cherishes Apple Martin, aged 21, and Moses Martin, 19. She feels such a strong affection for them that it seems crucial to her well-being, as she put it, “Dakota said of the kids.” This is regarding Chris Martin’s children from his former marriage with Gwyneth Paltrow.
Born into a family with a rich cinematic heritage – the daughter of stars from “Miami Vice” and “Working Girl”, granddaughter of screen icon Tippi Hedren, and later the stepdaughter of Antonio Banderas – it’s no surprise that this actress, known for her role in “Fifty Shades of Grey”, has grown accustomed to larger-than-life personalities in Hollywood.
Dakota observed that in our adult lives, including his new family, many of us are artists at heart. Remarkably, even the children possess exceptional talents. As such, one is constantly dealing with intricate individuals. One learns to adapt, accept, and sometimes express feelings bluntly before eventually saying, “I love you, please return.
Despite the continuous flow of people, let me clarify the intricate yet harmonious blend of Dakota’s family:
1. Dakota (Dad) – The head of this dynamic household.
2. Wife A (Mom 1) – Dakota’s first partner and mother to his biological children.
3. Children with Wife A – Dakota’s offspring from his first marriage, forming the core of the family.
4. Spouse B (Stepmom) – Dakota’s second partner who has also embraced the role of a parent to his children.
5. Child with Spouse B – The product of Dakota and his current partner’s union, expanding the family further.
6. Wife C (Mom 2) – Dakota’s third partner, mother to her own children who are now part of this blended family.
7. Children with Wife C – Dakota’s stepchildren from his relationship with Wife C.
8. Step-Grandparents – The grandparents of some members within the family, providing wisdom and love.
9. Extended Family Members – Aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives who enrich this diverse and vibrant family tapestry.
As a fervent admirer looking back, I can’t help but remember the electrifying moment when 14-year-old me crossed paths with Don Johnson, an impressive eight years my senior, during his role in “The Harrad Experiment” alongside my beloved mother, the iconic Tippi Hedren, in 1973.
Tippi confessed to People magazine in 1989 that she quickly developed a deep affection for him, describing it as the intensity of an adolescent crush.
In another period of time, Melanie began living with Don at age 15. They became engaged when she turned 18 and secretly married each other in Las Vegas on January 8, 1976. Interestingly, it was revealed that Don had been with a beauty queen the night prior to their wedding.
Melanie shared with People that she believed getting married could improve their situation, but it didn’t. She got married specifically to terminate the relationship, and they subsequently had the marriage annulled.
During the early half of the 1980s, Don was involved in a romantic partnership with actress and musa of Andy Warhol, Patti D’Arbanville (who was an inspiration behind Cat Stevens’ song “Lady D’Arbanville”).
In 2024, Don reminisced to People about an encounter he had. It took place in New York where he was working on a film. He visited Andy Warhol’s factory, and there, to his surprise, he found the mother of his firstborn son standing bare on a table. This was apparently the inaugural cover photo shoot for Interview magazine. She was breathtakingly beautiful and mesmerizing.
Their initial encounter can be traced back to the year 1973 (as she graced the cover of Interview magazine for the first time, albeit not the first), but they didn’t start their relationship until 1981. A popular tale suggests that Don dined at a Los Angeles restaurant with his girlfriend, Tanya Tucker, at the time, and instead of leaving with her, he ended up leaving with Patti.
“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.
In that moment, Don shared with People magazine that he informed Patti he wasn’t ready for marriage at the present time, whereas she expressed to him that she wasn’t interested in it either.
The star of Miami Vice, who fought against drug and alcohol dependency, attributed his young family as the catalyst for embarking on his path to sobriety.
One day, he stepped into the breakfast room, as he recalled to People magazine in 1984. The sun was bright, birds were chirping, and Patti was nourishing their baby. He stumbled inside, took a seat, gazed at them, and noticed Patti looking back at him. If I didn’t act, he knew she would depart. So, he said, “Patti, I’m battling alcoholism and drug addiction, and I intend to tackle it.
In 1985, he parted ways with Patti. Since then, she has been married and divorced on three separate occasions, and she has three children with her most recent ex-spouse.
Jesse is both a musician and an actor. He first appeared on screen in a 2001 episode of his father’s long-running police drama, Nash Bridges. His most recent role was a guest appearance on Don’s latest television series, Doctor Odyssey.
Grew up amidst the pristine mountains of Aspen, Colorado, I, an ardent enthusiast might say, but my passion for the stage compelled me to earn a degree in theater from Occidental College in sunny Southern California. Yet, my Instagram account brimming with snowy escapades serves as a testament to my unwavering love for the wintery landscapes, and let’s not forget, I hail from a family that’s as expansive as the Rockies themselves.
Apart from that, he is also the vocalist and guitarist in the band “Blame Baby”. As he put it to Rock Wired, their sound is reminiscent of an era where things were a bit less complex and more straightforwardly rock.
Melanie had an encounter with Stephen Bauer, who starred as Scarface, during the filming of “She’s in the Army Now.” They tied the knot in 1983 and remained married until 1987.
Though she hasn’t spoken extensively about their marriage that resulted in son Alexander, the former couple maintained a friendly relationship and were even spotted together at the premiere of ‘Dark Tourist’ in 2013.
Melanie stated to People magazine in 2020 that among her circle, there were then three of her former husbands. She expressed deep affection for each one, saying ‘I cherish them wholeheartedly,'” or simply “In 2020, Melanie mentioned to People that she had three past husbands who were close friends of hers; she professed her deep love for them.
Alexander Griffith Bauer was born on August 22, 1985, and mainly resided in Los Angeles with his mother following the divorce of his parents.
Despite being more reserved compared to some of his relatives, he’s frequently spotted during family events, even those centered around the Johnsons. Though he has dabbled in both writing and acting, his primary focus has been working off-screen in film production as a grip.
Melanie posted on Instagram in 2021, ‘Celebrating National Sons Day with these exceptional fellows, Jesse and Alex! So much love for the both of you!’
Like moths to a flame, Melanie and Don got back together…eventually.
In 1987, he proposed the notion of inviting Melanie for a guest role as a sophisticated madam on the show Miami Vice. After that, their relationship resumed intermittently. During these breaks, Don pursued Barbara Streisand and Melanie dated an investment banker; however, in 1988, Don assisted Melanie in overcoming her addiction by urging her to seek treatment at the Hazelden Foundation in Minnesota, which she did in May of that year.
In a 1989 interview with People magazine, she shared her experience, “For nearly two years, he’s been urging me to seek help at Hazelden. It might seem like I was dealing with substance abuse issues, but that’s not the case. You don’t have to be a drug addict for alcoholism to be a problem. Just one drink can be lethal for an alcoholic like myself.” Don, my long-time AA companion since 1983, has been by my side throughout this journey.
Melanie was pregnant when they wed again on June 26, 1989.
Don mentioned to People magazine that we’re similar to the Ozzie and Harriet family here,” he said, as they pointed out that Alexander resided with us and Jesse often dropped by. Melanie then chimed in, “We all wish for a daughter.
Dakota Mayi Johnson was born Oct. 4, 1989.
Ever since I dipped my toes into the whirlwind of Hollywood back in 1999, starring alongside my mom in “Crazy in Alabama,” directed by none other than my then-stepfather Antonio Banderas, I’ve been on a roll. From there, I’ve gained momentum under my own name, leaving an indelible mark with the “Fifty Shades” series, “A Bigger Splash,” “How to Be Single,” “Suspiria,” and most recently, “Madam Web.” It’s been one exciting journey!
She expressed her frustration with the discussion about nepotism, finding it particularly bothersome, as it’s quite typical for people to join their family’s businesses.
Looking back in 2025, I reminisced to my Materialists co-star, Pedro Pascal, for Elle about the beginning of my journey. There were long stretches without any opportunities, and then, honestly, I had to seek assistance from my parents. I’m deeply thankful that they could help me and did so, but it was far from enjoyable. The auditioning process, as you well know, can be utterly grueling.
In 1996, Melanie went through a divorce with Don, however, she maintains a strong bond with her former in-laws – her stepmother, ex-stepfather, as well as all of her half-siblings whom she considers nothing less than her own brothers and sisters.
Dakota shared with The Hollywood Reporter in 2021 that she was brought up by various individuals, including her biological parents, step-parents, nannies, tutors, friends, teachers, as well as friends’ and boyfriends’ parents. She eagerly sought to learn from everyone and continues to do so today. Dakota attributes her unique personality to the way she was raised and is thankful for the diversity of her upbringing because it is the reason she has become who she is.
Dakota has been dating Chris Martin since 2017 and they share a home in Malibu.
Despite their extreme privacy that often fuels breakup rumors even more intensely than the scrutiny on a royal family’s wedding ring, they occasionally share a public moment or allow themselves to be photographed together, always at the right moment to put an end to any gossip swirling around them.
Moving from one combined family to another, the actress has flourished as a motherly figure in the lives of Apple Martin and Moses Martin, who are Chris’ kids with his former wife, Gwyneth Paltrow.
“I love those kids like my life depends on it,” Dakota told Bustle in 2024. “With all my heart.”
Melanie and Antonio Banderas were both previously married (Antonio to Ana Leza since 1987) when they crossed paths during the filming of the 1995 comedy “Too Much”. By the next year, both had parted ways with their respective spouses and tied the knot in London on May 14, 1996. Their daughter Stella was born four months later.
In June 2014, their relationship dissolved amicably. They announced in a statement that they chose to part ways through a mutual and cordial divorce, showing consideration for each other, their loved ones, and the precious memories they shared over time.
In the same fashion as she was with Don, Melanie maintained a tight bond with Antonio, who has been in a relationship with Nicole Kimpel since 2015.
Antonio shared with Fox News Digital in 2023, ‘I consider my ex-wife to be a very close friend of mine. There’s nothing negative I feel towards her.’ He went on to say, ‘She’s an exceptional woman and I continue to admire and stand by the belief that our 20-year relationship was a beautiful journey.’
Absolutely, there were times when we stumbled, but what will be etched in my memory forever are the stunningly beautiful moments we shared. Among those unforgettable instances, our children and family play a significant role.
And when he travels to L.A., he added, the first thing he does is call Melanie.
Antonio mentioned that we often have a family dinner, it’s simply a gathering, involving everyone in the family. He emphasized that this tradition holds great significance not just for us, but for the extended family as well.
Stella Del Carmen Banderas was born Sept. 24, 1996.
Antonio shared with Fox News that his intelligent daughter, who launched the perfume company Lightbound last year, employs a thoughtful perspective when it comes to filmmaking.
He mentioned that his daughter is currently working on short films, directing them, and has also studied acting. Additionally, she’ll be moving into directing commercials as well. He believes she will ultimately end up directing full-length movies. It so happens that they both starred in a Mercedes commercial that was shown in Europe.
Now, Stella is making wedding plans after getting engaged to entrepreneur Alex Gruszynski in August 2024. She announced the joyous news with a post that read, “I get to spend eternity with my favorite person on earth!!!
Melanie expressed her delight for Stella and Alex’s engagement on Instagram by saying, “He proposed… Down on one knee… She agreed… Stella and Alex will soon become husband and wife… Their love story started in preschool. It’s a true, profound love!
At the 22nd Annual ELLE Women In Hollywood Awards in 2015, Dakota, known as grandma Tippi, mom Melanie, and sister Stella all dressed stylishly together.
In the mid-1990s, Don encountered Kelley Phleger, who was a nursery school teacher and an ex-girlfriend of the current California Governor, Gavin Newsom, at a birthday bash for then-San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. It was in 1997 when they started their romantic relationship for the first time.
On April 29, 1999, they got married at the residence of Gordon Getty, an oil family heir, and they’ve been a couple ever since.
In 2024, Don shared with People that our bond is built on kindness, trust, and respect. He explained, “We’re more than just lovers; we’re friends too. It’s a wonderful relationship, and she’s truly exceptional.
To celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary, Kelley posted on Instagram, “I reflect upon the memories that started 26 years ago today, and I wouldn’t trade a SINGLE DAY! Through thick and thin, you and I have faced it all, and nothing has ever weakened our bond of love. We’ve built a beautiful family along the way, and we’ve never felt more blessed. As we move forward together, hand in hand, we continue to grow stronger.
Nowadays, the actor’s life has grown more tranquil compared to his Miami Vice era, a time marked by constant security due to production needs and inescapable attention from women longing for a glimpse of Sonny Crockett.
In an interview with People, Don shared some insights about maintaining a healthy balance between work and life as an actor. He explained that movie roles and television shows tend to consume one’s life, leaving little time for personal matters. However, he finds himself in a fortunate position where he can select roles carefully. Often, he opts for supporting roles because they allow him to enjoy his profession without working long hours and being separated from his family.
Don and Kelley’s first child together, Atherton Grace Johnson, was born Dec. 28, 1999.
As a child, she sporadically joined her parents, but for the most part, she lived an ordinary childhood in Santa Barbara, California. Later, she attended the University of Southern California to study photography.
2019 marked Grace’s first appearance at the Met Gala alongside Dakota, and she also strutted her stuff on the runway for the Christian Cowan x “The Powerpuff Girls” show. Since then, she has modeled for Bello magazine, walked the ramp for Gucci, and featured in a music video for her brother Jesse’s band.
In 2019, she shared with Glamour Spain that her bond with Dakota is complex due to their unique dynamic – she’s not only her sister, but also her dearest friend. She emphasized that for a significant period, regardless of the age gap, Dakota has consistently regarded her as an equal.
Jasper Breckenridge Johnson was born June 6, 2002.
In high school located in Santa Barbara, he excelled at basketball. His father frequently highlights their height on social media platforms like Instagram. Additionally, his bio on his NCSA recruiting page states, “My parents have consistently attended all my games, offering unwavering support throughout my journey.
Beyond my dream of playing basketball in college, I express my ambition: I aim to specialize in business and earn a bachelor’s degree over four years. Following this, I aspire to embark on a professional journey within the same field.
Deacon James Johnson completed our family (in this era, that is) on April 29, 2006, leaving Don ecstatic, as his representative stated, “six times over the moon.
His Instagram, similar to Jasper’s, is set to private, yet there’s a clue about the university he attends – “Sb usc” can be found in his bio.
Among his close family, Deacon is affectionately known as “Chap”. His mother wrote on his 19th birthday card, “Happy Birthday Chap (Deacon James)! We adore you and couldn’t have hoped for a better YOUNGEST one. You’re the cool guy!
Read More
- OM PREDICTION. OM cryptocurrency
- Jujutsu Kaisen Reveals New Gojo and Geto Image That Will Break Your Heart Before the Movie!
- Why Tina Fey’s Netflix Show The Four Seasons Is a Must-Watch Remake of a Classic Romcom
- Oblivion Remastered: The Ultimate Race Guide & Tier List
- The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered – How to Complete Canvas the Castle Quest
- WWE’s Braun Strowman Suffers Bloody Beatdown on Saturday Night’s Main Event
- Elevation – PRIME VIDEO
- Serena Williams’ Husband Fires Back at Critics
- Christina Haack and Ant Anstead Team Up Again—Awkward or Heartwarming?
- The Weeknd Shocks Fans with Unforgettable Grammy Stage Comeback!
2025-05-17 13:18