Dakota Johnson 'forgiven' for 'downfall' interview with Ellen DeGeneres

Published: May 26 2026

Seven years ago, Dakota Johnson's infamous 2019 interview with Ellen DeGeneres continues to resonate online. While some fans take jabs at it, others offer forgiveness to the Fifty Shades of Grey actress for her disastrous turn as Madame Web. Some, particularly DeGeneres' critics, believe Dakota played a role in the comedian's "downfall," referring to The Ellen DeGeneres Show's end in 2022 amid allegations of workplace harassment. However, Dakota had no part in what transpired with DeGeneres. She merely said something that tarnished the host's public image before the allegations surfaced.

Dakota Johnson 'forgiven' for 'downfall' interview with Ellen DeGeneres 1

In the 2019 interview, which quickly went viral, Dakota contradicted Ellen's claim that she hadn't invited the host to her birthday party. Ellen joked that she wasn't invited to Dakota's 30th birthday. Dakota calmly replied, "Actually, no, that's not the truth, Ellen. You were invited," after Ellen had made the same complaint the previous year. An off-camera staff member from The Ellen DeGeneres Show even confirmed it.

Commenting on the resurfaced clip, one Reddit user wrote: "One awkward interview somehow became one of Hollywood's most legendary moments." Another said, "I love the fact that Dakota was sitting there like a mob boss's daughter, coldly staring at Ellen like 'you have no idea who you've just offended by trying to twist the truth around on me like that.'"

This interaction encapsulates the power dynamics at play between celebrities and their public personas, highlighting how a simple misstep can have far-reaching consequences. Dakota's response showcases her confidence and poise, while Ellen's reaction adds a layer of comedic irony that continues to captivate audiences today.

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