Valentino has announced actress and producer Dakota Johnson as its new Global Brand Ambassador. The appointment underscores the Roman Couture House's commitment to fostering a vibrant, ongoing dialogue with individuals who embody a shared dedication to artistry, elegance, and cultural resonance. This pairing is particularly notable as it marks a heartwarming reunion between Johnson and Alessandro Michele, Valentino's recently appointed Creative Director, whom Johnson has long celebrated as a cherished friend and collaborator.

“I’m elated to be joining the Valentino family, and beyond happy to be reunited with my dearest friend Alessandro Michele. I am honored and excited to begin this new chapter with a team of such wonderful and talented people.” — Dakota Johnson

Johnson's path to becoming a recognized style and screen star is as diverse as her filmography. Born into an iconic acting family—her parents are Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith, and her grandmother is Tippi Hedren—Dakota has deep roots in the industry. Her early start came at age ten in Crazy in Alabama (1999). While early roles included films like The Social Network (2010), she achieved massive global recognition as Anastasia "Ana" Steele in the phenomenally successful Fifty Shades film series (2015–2018).

Following the massive franchise success, Johnson has consciously embraced a range of independent and auteur-driven projects, showcasing her depth and versatility. She garnered strong reviews for her performance in Maggie Gyllenhaal’s critically acclaimed adaptation of the Elena Ferrante novel, The Lost Daughter (2021). She also starred and served as a producer in the charming Sundance Film Festival favorite, Cha Cha Real Smooth (2022). She then took the lead in the Netflix modernization of the classic Jane Austen novel, Persuasion (2022). More recently, Johnson returned to major franchise work by taking on the titular role in the Marvel-connected superhero feature, Madame Web (2024).

Her forthcoming slate includes the romantic comedy Materialists from director Celine Song (Past Lives) and the psychological thriller Verity. This consistent dedication to artistic exploration beautifully aligns with Valentino's vision of uniting its couture heritage with contemporary cultural narratives. Johnson’s inherent, effortless elegance makes her the perfect ambassador for this new chapter at the Maison.