Let me tell you about Don Johnson, a guy who’s been a father five times and still finds joy in every single moment of it. Now, when Deacon, his youngest, was born back in 2006, Don said something that really stuck with me. He said, "It’s no less exciting this time than it was the first time." That's powerful, right? Don views being a dad as this deeply emotional experience, one you never truly get used to. And honestly, who would want to? It’s always joyful, filled with good times, more laughter, and endless fun. Don’s love for kids shines through in everything he says and does.
Now, Don is 71 years old and has kids ranging from the age of 38 to 14. That’s quite a spread! But here’s the kicker—he admits to being an older dad, and guess what? It keeps him feeling young. He’s got this laid-back attitude about it all, saying, "We take it all in stride." That’s Don for you—cool, calm, and collected, but with a heart full of love for his family.
Challenges Along the Way
Of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. His son Jesse Johnson, 38, whose mom is actress Patti D’Arbanville, and his daughter Dakota Johnson, 31, from his second marriage to Melanie Griffith, were kids during the peak of Don’s fame. Back then, Don wasn’t always the greatest dad to his older kids, mainly because life circumstances were different. Let’s be real—he was busy working, spending long hours on soundstages. But one thing he never skimped on was love and support for his kids. In fact, there’s a family rule: "If you stay in school, you get to stay on the payroll." That’s Don’s way of encouraging education while keeping things light-hearted.
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A New Chapter in Parenthood
In 1999, Don married Kelley Phleger, who is now the mom to his three youngest children: Grace, 21, Jasper, 18, and Deacon, 14. Over the years, his parenting style has definitely evolved. A close friend says, "Don has mellowed with age, but he’s still firm about the importance of school." His younger kids know that education comes first, and Don makes sure they understand that. It’s this balance of being a cool, understanding dad while also setting boundaries that makes him such a great father.
Fast forward to today, and Don is incredibly proud of all his children. But here’s the twist—the tables have turned! Now, it’s his older kids who are too busy working to visit. Dakota, for instance, calls him up and says, "Uh, gosh, I would see you, but I’ve got three pictures I’m shooting." Don couldn’t be prouder. He gushes, "She’s gainfully employed, and that’s a great day." It’s this mutual respect and love that defines Don’s relationship with his kids.
— Reporting by Rick Egusquiza
