Marilyn Monroe and Dakota Johnson Are Related, New Genealogy 2026

Marilyn Monroe and Dakota Johnson are related, according to a new genealogy revelation from MyHeritage. The two Hollywood stars are ninth cousins three times removed, sharing ancestry that traces back to 17th-century English settlers. This fascinating connection adds a new layer to the upcoming film Flesh Impact, where Johnson portrays Monroe.

The Surprising Family Link Between Marilyn Monroe and Dakota Johnson

MyHeritage's press release reveals that Monroe and Johnson share ancestors Richard and Charity Tydings, who were early settlers in Maryland. Monroe descends from their daughter Pretitia, while Johnson and her father Don Johnson descend from Pretitia's younger sister, Mary. This makes the two actresses distant cousins, a fact that has delighted fans and genealogists alike.

While ninth cousins three times removed may sound distant, in celebrity circles, it's a remarkable find. The connection was uncovered ahead of the Venice Film Festival premiere of Flesh Impact, where Johnson plays Monroe in her prime, and Ellen Burstyn portrays an alternate version of the icon.

Why This Genealogy Discovery Matters

Genealogy has become a popular tool for uncovering hidden connections among celebrities. This discovery not only adds intrigue to the film but also highlights the deep roots many Americans share. The Tydings family story is a testament to early colonial history and how far-reaching family trees can be.

For Johnson, playing a relative adds a personal touch to her performance. In a recent interview, she expressed excitement about the role, noting that knowing the family connection made the experience more meaningful.

Other Famous Celebrity Family Connections

Johnson and Monroe aren't the only stars with surprising relatives. Kit Harington, for example, is a descendant of Robert Catesby, the leader of the Gunpowder Plot, as revealed by the website Famouskin. This connection was highlighted during the 2017 BBC series Gunpowder, where Harington played Catesby.

Such discoveries often come from dedicated genealogical research, using historical records and DNA testing. They remind us that history and entertainment are more intertwined than we might think.

Comparison Table: Famous Celebrity Cousin Connections

Key Takeaways from the Genealogy Revelation

• Marilyn Monroe and Dakota Johnson are ninth cousins three times removed.
• Their shared ancestors were 17th-century English settlers in Maryland.
• The discovery was made by MyHeritage ahead of Monroe's 100th birthday.
• Johnson stars as Monroe in the upcoming film Flesh Impact.
• Celebrity genealogy often reveals surprising connections that enrich our understanding of history.

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