Don Johnson, a father of five, is always seeking ways to guide his children. During an appearance on “Good Morning America” this week, the 75-year-old veteran actor discussed his thoughts on his kids potentially following in his footsteps while promoting his new Hulu show, “Doctor Odyssey.”
“I warned them against it. I said, ‘This is not for you,’” Johnson shared before revealing the family rule. He emphasized the importance of three things in his long-lasting marriage.
Johnson cautioned his children, including Dakota Johnson, against pursuing careers similar to his own, stating a family rule that required them to attend college and find employment if they chose not to pursue higher education. Despite his advice, Dakota decided to pursue acting, eventually finding success in “The Social Network.”
The acclaimed actor, known for his role as James “Sonny” Crockett in “Miami Vice,” has been happily married to Kelley Phleger since 1999. Together, they have three children. Additionally, Johnson has children from previous relationships.
Reflecting on his early struggles and eventual success in the industry, Johnson acknowledged the challenges he faced before landing his iconic role in “Miami Vice.” He stressed the importance of marrying the right person for a successful marriage.
Despite the pressures of fame, Johnson learned to navigate them and prioritize his personal life. He emphasized the importance of managing fame and not letting it control his life, drawing parallels to Elvis Presley’s experiences.
In summary, Johnson’s experiences in both his career and personal life have shaped his advice for his children and his outlook on marriage and fame.
“A toxic marriage can have an aging effect on you.”In 2023, he opened up about the relationship advice he had received from Bob Dylan in the past. “[Kelley] is truly remarkable. I remember being with Bob Dylan once, grappling with relationship challenges. Bob looked at me and said, ‘Love is all about kindness, trust, and respect, right?’ That’s exactly who Kelley is,” Johnson shared with Parade, highlighting what makes Phleger the perfect partner for him. “We embody kindness, trust, and respect in our relationship. We are not just partners but also great friends, and it’s a joy. She is an extraordinary woman.”After graduating from high school, Dakota Johnson informed her father that she had decided against attending college and would instead pursue a career in acting. Along his journey, Johnson has found solace in Hollywood by forming numerous strong connections, one of which is his friendship with Bruce Willis. Reflecting on their first meeting, Johnson recounted visiting a bar in New York City where Willis was working as a bartender. “I would go there and sit with Bruce. … Bruce was an excellent storyteller, sharing tales of the challenges he faced dealing with patrons and fellow actors. I got to know him well,” Johnson reminisced. “I told him, ‘You know what? You would be amazing.’ That’s when I contacted the casting director … and recommended him for a role. She did, and he was cast in ‘Miami Vice’ before any other major project.”Johnson expressed his certainty about Willis’ talent right from the start, stating, “I could sense it.”During a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Johnson briefly touched on Willis’ health. “We are the closest of friends, and he is facing some challenges at the moment,” he shared regarding Willis, who was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2022. “I want to take a moment to send him my love.”Source: Don Johnson stops daughter’s ‘family payroll’ after she rejects college plans
