Dakota Johnson Shares Financial Struggles After Father Cuts Her Off

Dakota Johnson opens up about her challenges

Dakota Johnson has recently discussed the financial difficulties she faced after her father, Don Johnson, decided to stop supporting her financially. During an interview with her ‘Materialists’ co-star Pedro Pascal for Elle UK, the 35-year-old actress shared her journey following her rejection from the esteemed Juilliard School.

Johnson revealed that she applied only to Juilliard, known for its highly competitive admissions process, but did not make the cut. This setback led to a crucial shift in her life, as she had not planned to apply to any other colleges. Without a degree, she struggled to secure acting roles that would enable her to support herself.

A hard truth for a young actress

Reflecting on her father’s decision, Johnson stated, “I didn’t get in and my dad cut me off because I didn’t go to college. So, I started auditioning. I think I was 19 when I did ‘The Social Network’ and then little jobs and stuff after that.” She candidly admitted that the early years in her acting career were financially tough.

“For a couple of years, it was hard to make money,” she explained. “There were a few times when I’d go to the market and not have money in my bank account or not be able to pay rent. I’d have to ask my parents for help – I’m grateful that I had parents that could help me and did help me. But it was certainly not fun. The auditioning process, as you know, is the f—— worst.”

The path to Juilliard

Johnson’s decision to apply to Juilliard marked a significant moment in her life. The school is one of the world’s premier performing arts institutions, accepting only about 10 percent of its applicants. “That f—— process was so awful and terrifying,” Johnson recalled. “When you get accepted for an audition, it’s a two-day long chorus-line thing. You’re supposed to get called back for a second audition, and I didn’t.”

Although she did not gain admission, Johnson found that college was not a priority for her. She shared, “It was fine, I really didn’t want to go to college. Juilliard felt so small. The idea of being in a classroom with the same group of people, figuring out how to be a human in that environment, felt really wrong to lock myself in one place.”

A family of artists

Don Johnson, 75, shares Dakota with his ex-wife Melanie Griffith, 67. Their relationship has seen ups and downs, including two marriages and a divorce. Despite their complicated history, Johnson’s influential role in Dakota’s life remains clear. The elder Johnson emphasized the importance of education and independence for his children.

He noted, “I warned them against it. I said, ‘This is not for you.’ When Dakota was graduating from high school, we had a family rule. If you don’t go on to college and get a job, you’re off the family payroll.” This mantra shaped both Dakota’s attitude and approach towards her acting career.

Growing up in a creative environment

Dakota Johnson’s childhood was far from ordinary. Traveling from one location to another with her parents while they filmed projects, she was exposed to diverse cultures and lifestyles. “I traveled with my parents and with a tutor until I was 10 years old,” she recalled. “We lived in Spain for quite a while. At one point, I went to an all-girls Catholic boarding school. That was an interesting experience.”

Afterward, Dakota returned to Los Angeles, where she completed her last three years of high school at the private New Roads School. Reflecting on her academics, she acknowledged, “I was not the best student. I struggled with basic school subjects because I never learned time management or did my homework. I was good at English and Spanish, but not at math. I participated in visual arts and engaged in a theatre program that I eventually got kicked out of for failing my classes.”

A breakthrough role

Johnson’s career took off in 2010 with a minor role in Aaron Sorkin’s acclaimed biographical drama ‘The Social Network.’ However, her real breakthrough came in 2015 when she starred as Anastasia Steele in the ’50 Shades of Grey’ series. This role catapulted her into the spotlight and changed her career trajectory entirely.

Despite the pressures and expectations that come with fame, Dakota remains appreciative of the path she has taken. Don Johnson praised his daughter’s resilience, emphasizing her determination to make her mark in Hollywood after opting out of a traditional education.

In a candid moment, Don recalled, “Out of high school, I went to Dakota and asked if she wanted to visit some colleges. She said, ‘I’m not going to college.’ I worried about how she would support herself, but three months later, she landed her part in ‘The Social Network’ and hasn’t looked back since.”

The journey continues

As Dakota Johnson reflects on her tumultuous early years and the challenges of carving a niche in the film industry, her story serves as an inspiration. It illustrates the resilience needed to succeed and the importance of navigating life’s uncertainties. Johnson continues to thrive in her career, reminding others of the unpredictable path that success often entails.