On May 7, 2025, Dakota Johnson transformed the screening of her new rom-com, Materialists, into a family affair, attended by her mother Melanie Griffith and siblings Jesse Johnson, Stella Banderas, and Grace Johnson in Los Angeles. The event highlighted not just the film, but the close-knit family ties that Johnson cherishes.
The 35-year-old actress, who stars alongside Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans in Materialists, donned a stunning white dress with a sheer skirt, complemented by her signature glamorous makeup and brunette hairstyle. Her mother, Melanie Griffith, 67, radiated joy in a brown top, loose-fitting jeans, and a khaki trench coat. Meanwhile, Stella Banderas, 28, looked stylish in a brown dress with ruching, paired with a sleek leather coat, and Grace Johnson opted for a butter yellow coat with black separates.
Jesse Johnson, 42, kept it casual in a gray sweater and black hat. This rare outing for the family came as Dakota prepares for the film's release, which is highly anticipated given her previous rom-com, Persuasion, released in 2022. Following the screening, Jesse took to Instagram to share a photo of the film's art poster, expressing his enthusiasm with the caption, "dis good."
The Johnson family dynamic is a blend of creativity and complexity, a theme Dakota has openly discussed. Last March, she reflected on her unique family structure in an interview with Bustle, stating, "No matter how f---ed up it is, or who’s in rehab, or who’s not speaking to whom, or who’s divorcing whom, we’re family. And we are always going to be a family. It’s really real." This sentiment underscores the resilience and bond that keeps them united despite challenges.
In addition to Jesse, Dakota has several other siblings: Alexander Bauer, 39, Jasper Johnson, 22, and Deacon Johnson, 19. Alexander is the son of Griffith and actor Steven Bauer, while Jasper and Deacon are the children of Dakota’s father, Don Johnson, and actress Kelly Phlegler.
Griffith and Johnson were married twice, first briefly in 1976 and then from 1989 until 1996, during which time they welcomed Dakota. In her interview, Dakota emphasized the artistic inclinations shared among her siblings, noting, "Most of us are artists. Even in my adult life and my new family, most of us are artists. Even the kids, they’re extraordinarily talented people. So you just are dealing with complex people. You grow and you embrace and you say, ‘F--k you and f--k off,’ and then ‘I love you, come back.’"
This candidness about family dynamics resonates with many, highlighting the reality that families can be both complicated and supportive. Dakota’s ability to navigate these relationships while maintaining her career is a testament to her strength and commitment to her loved ones.
The Materialists screening not only showcased Dakota’s latest work but also served as a reminder of the importance of family in the entertainment industry. As Dakota continues to carve her path in Hollywood, her family's presence reinforces her foundation, providing both support and inspiration.
As the film gears up for its release, audiences are eager to see how Dakota’s character will resonate with viewers, particularly given the star-studded cast. With Dakota’s experience and her family’s artistic background, Materialists is poised to be a significant addition to her filmography.
In a world where family ties can often be tested, Dakota Johnson's story is one of resilience and love, showcasing that no matter the circumstances, family remains a central theme in her life. The Johnson family's outing at the screening is a celebration of not just a film, but of the enduring bonds that keep them together.
Keep an eye out for Materialists, as it promises to be a heartfelt exploration of relationships, love, and the complexities of modern family life.
