Marilyn Monroe and Dakota Johnson Are Related: 9th Cousins 2026

Marilyn Monroe and Dakota Johnson are related as ninth cousins three times removed, a surprising celebrity genealogy discovery that adds a new layer to the upcoming film Flesh Impact. This connection, revealed by MyHeritage, traces their shared ancestry back to 17th-century English settlers Richard and Charity Tydings in Maryland.

The Family Connection: How Marilyn and Dakota Are Related

According to the press release, Marilyn Monroe descends from the Tydings' daughter Pretitia, while Dakota Johnson and her father Don Johnson descend from Pretitia's younger sister Mary. This makes them ninth cousins three times removed—a distant but real blood tie that has excited fans and genealogists alike.

This is not just a trivial fact; it adds a fascinating dimension to Dakota Johnson's portrayal of Monroe in the upcoming Venice Film Festival premiere. The film, written and directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, features two versions of Monroe: Ellen Burstyn plays an older, unseen version, while Johnson embodies Monroe in her prime.

Why This Celebrity Genealogy Matters

Celebrity genealogy often reveals unexpected connections, and this one is particularly compelling because it directly links an actress to the icon she portrays. While ninth cousins three times removed is not a close relationship in everyday terms, in Hollywood circles, it's a remarkable coincidence that has captured media attention.

The resemblance between Johnson and Monroe in the released promotional photo is striking, and while some attribute it to Monroe's iconic look, the genetic link adds a layer of authenticity to the casting.

Other Surprising Celebrity Family Ties

This is not the only instance of actors playing their own ancestors or relatives. For example, Kit Harington played Robert Catesby in the 2017 BBC series Gunpowder, and it was revealed that Harington is a direct descendant of Catesby, the leader of the failed gunpowder plot.

Such discoveries often come from genealogy platforms like MyHeritage and Famouskin, which have become popular for tracing celebrity lineages. These connections not only intrigue fans but also add historical depth to film and television projects.

Comparison of Celebrity Ancestry Discoveries

Key Takeaways

• Dakota Johnson and Marilyn Monroe share 17th-century ancestors from Maryland.
• The connection was revealed by MyHeritage ahead of the Venice Film Festival premiere.
• Johnson plays Monroe in the film Flesh Impact, directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal.
• Other actors like Kit Harington have also played their own ancestors.
• Genealogy platforms are increasingly uncovering surprising Hollywood family ties.

FAQ

This celebrity genealogy revelation not only boosts the film's buzz but also reminds us that Hollywood is full of hidden family ties. As the Venice Film Festival approaches, audiences will be eager to see Dakota Johnson channel her distant cousin's iconic energy on screen.