Dakota Johnson reveals how she made it in Hollywood after her father cut her off financially

ANI May 18, 2025 258 views

Dakota Johnson opened up about her early struggles in Hollywood after her father, Don Johnson, stopped supporting her financially. She pursued acting instead of college, facing financial hardships before landing key roles. Her breakthrough came with 'The Social Network,' followed by the 'Fifty Shades' trilogy. Despite initial challenges, she built a successful career on her own terms.

"I didn’t get in, and my dad cut me off because I didn’t go to college." - Dakota Johnson
Washington, May 18: Dakota Johnson, the 35-year-old actress known for her roles in the 'Fifty Shades' trilogy, has shared her story of determination and perseverance in pursuing an acting career.

Key Points

1

Dakota Johnson chose acting over college

2

Don Johnson ended financial support

3

Struggled before landing 'The Social Network'

4

Rose to fame with 'Fifty Shades'

As per E! News, in a recent interview, Johnson revealed that her father, Don Johnson, cut her off financially after high school when she decided not to attend college.

Johnson recalled that her father's ultimatum was clear: attend college and receive an allowance, or pursue acting and be on her own.

"I didn't get in, and my dad cut me off because I didn't go to college," Johnson said, adding, "So, I started auditioning. I think I was 19 when I did The Social Network, and then little jobs and stuff after that," as quoted by E! News.

Despite struggling financially, Johnson landed roles in notable films, including 'The Social Network' and the 'Fifty Shades' trilogy.

Johnson opened up about the challenges she faced while trying to make it in Hollywood.

"For a couple of years, it was hard to make money," she said, adding, "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, and I'd have to ask my parents for help," as quoted by E! News.

Johnson expressed gratitude for her parents' support, but acknowledged that the auditioning process was tough.

Her father, Don Johnson previously shared his side of the story on Late Night With Seth Meyers.

"We have a rule in the family that if you stay in school, you get to stay on the payroll," he said.

When Dakota decided not to attend college, Johnson told her she would no longer receive financial support. "And she says, 'Don't you worry about it,'" he recalled, as quoted by E! News.

Three weeks later, Dakota landed a role in 'The Social Network.'

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Respect for Dakota's hustle! 💪 In India, we understand family pressure about education vs. passion. Many Indian parents would react the same way - "Padhai karo ya ghar chhodo". But look at her now! Success is the best reply.
R
Rahul S.
Interesting how her father had clear rules. In Indian families, we often see this black-and-white approach. But I wonder - was cutting off completely necessary? Couldn't there be a middle path with some support while she pursued her dreams?
A
Ananya M.
As someone trying to make it in Bollywood, I relate so much! The struggle is real, whether in Hollywood or here. At least she had the safety net of famous parents - most Indian actors don't even have that. But kudos to her for making it on her own terms! ✨
V
Vikram J.
Her story is inspiring but let's be honest - having famous parents in the industry definitely opens doors. The Social Network in just 3 weeks? That's not the typical struggling actor's journey. Still, she proved herself which matters most.
S
Shreya P.
This reminds me of so many star kids in Bollywood! But unlike many who get easy entries, she actually had to prove herself. That's respectable. Though I wish more articles highlighted self-made actors from humble backgrounds - their stories are even more inspiring!

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