When you think of Don Johnson, you might picture him in his iconic Miami Vice days, but today, it’s all about his real-life love story. Don and his wife, Kelley Phleger, tied the knot back in 1999, and their love has only grown stronger over the years. They’ve been nothing short of smitten with each other ever since walking down the aisle, proving that true love exists even in Hollywood.
Meet Kelley Phleger: The Love of Don Johnson's Life
Before she became the woman behind one of Hollywood’s most beloved leading men, Kelley was living her best life as a dedicated teacher. She graduated from the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, and was focused on her career in education. But fate had other plans for her when she met Don at a party celebrating the former San Francisco Mayor, Willie Brown. It was love at first sight—or at least for Don!
Producer Jo Schuman Silver recalls the moment Don spotted Kelley at Willie’s birthday bash. “Don came up to me at Willie’s birthday party and said that the minute he laid eyes on Kelley, he knew he was going to marry her,” she shared with People back in 1999. “Kelley might not have known what hit her, but I’m sure she found him irresistible.”
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Don and Kelley’s romance blossomed quickly. They started dating in 1997 and were married just two years later. This union marked a new chapter for Don, who had previously been married twice to Melanie Griffith. But this time around, it was different—this time, it was forever.
In a candid interview with Parade in May 2023, Don opened up about his past and how he views his life now. “To be honest, it seemed like I had a lot of marriages, but really, I just kept marrying the same woman twice,” he joked. “My life has been wild, chaotic, and magical all at once. There were moments where everything felt like a blur, yet I remember some of the most incredible things happening. Like meeting the Pope or being invited to the White House. And let’s not forget the incredible talent we launched on Miami Vice: Bruce Willis, Michael Chiklis, Liam Neeson, Julia Roberts—the list goes on. For a farm boy from Missouri, it’s been nothing short of a dream.”
Why Kelley Phleger Is Don Johnson’s Ideal Partner
Don didn’t hesitate to credit Kelley as the reason for his happiness. “Let me tell you, she’s a saint. I remember once having a conversation with Bob Dylan about relationships, and he told me something that really stuck with me,” Don reminisced. “He said, ‘Love is about kindness, trust, and respect.’ And that’s exactly who Kelley is. She embodies those qualities, and we share them with each other. We’re lovers, best friends, and it’s a lot of fun. She’s truly an amazing woman.”
The couple has enjoyed a life full of love and laughter ever since saying "I do." Kelley has been by Don's side through thick and thin, supporting him at public events and red carpet appearances. “They cherish their time together as a family,” an insider told Closer in November 2019. “They lead a truly charmed life.”
Don Johnson's Family: A Blend of Love and Talent
Don isn’t just known for his on-screen charisma; off-screen, he’s also a proud father. His eldest child, Jesse Johnson, was born to him and his former partner, Patti D’Arbanville. Then came Dakota Johnson, whom he welcomed during his second marriage to Melanie Griffith.
Dakota has spoken openly about growing up in such a unique environment. “It felt like I grew up in a circus,” she told Another Magazine in September 2015. “I’m used to planes, trains, and automobiles. And I’ve been surrounded by really talented, quirky people.”
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With Kelley, Don added three more children to his family: Atherton, Jasper, and Deacon Johnson. Together, they form a blended family filled with love, laughter, and music. “These kids are incredible—each one of them brings so much joy,” Don gushed. “We spend our time together laughing, making fun of me, and creating beautiful music. My sons are all amazing musicians who’ve surpassed anything I could’ve imagined. Now, I’m just the guy playing the tambourine. And Kelley and I travel a lot too. Life is good, man.”
