A photo of Dakota Johnson and MGK, formerly Machine Gun Kelly, led to a discussion of anti-role models as the pair was spotted out and about in Los Angeles. The talk erupted on Reddit wherein a photo of the two was posted on r/popculturechat. One particular remark stood out, 'I think it's important to have anti-role models, people older than us that show us exactly what we don't want to become'.
The remark posted by Reddit user Der_Finger drew approximately 3,700 upvotes. Users discussed Johnson's rumoured romance with the rapper and singer. The comment offered a broader perspective on the way people judge relationships and the public figures they look up to, amid online speculation about the actress and the rapper.
The recent sighting in LA was not a first as Johnson and MGK have reportedly been spotted together on several occasions. Neither has publicly confirmed a romantic relationship, but their reported appearances have prompted debate about their apparent connection and MGK's appeal as a potential partner.
Anti-Role Model
While the 'anti-role models' comment was not explicitly directed at Johnson or MGK, its popularity highlights how celebrity relationships can become a starting point for wider conversations about dating choices, personal values and expectations.
The qoute offers a provocative lens through which to view the online reaction to Johnson's rumoured romance with MGK. As speculation on the pair's relationship continues, social media users have been debating their apparent connection, with some questioning the rapper's appeal as a potential partner.
How the Rumoured Romance Began
Relationship rumours between Johnson and MGK emerged in September, when Us Weekly reported that the pair had enjoyed a date in New York City. The two first connected at a gathering involving Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce earlier in the summer, with an unnamed source claiming Johnson reached out to Swift and was allowed to use her apartment while the singer was away.
The pair have since reportedly been seen together on several occasions. Johnson also drew attention for supporting MGK during Vogue World: Milano, where the musician appeared on the runway in an orange Byblos jumpsuit during Milan Fashion Week. A source quoted by Us Weekly in September claimed the relationship had progressed quickly, with the pair reportedly staying in touch through daily conversations and FaceTime calls.
Johnson is described as a romantic who is drawn to musicians, while suggesting that some people in her circle had reservations about whether MGK's lifestyle would align with her long-term plans. The Fifty Shades of Grey star reportedly wants to settle down and start a family.
Johnson Has a History of Dating Musicians
Johnson's reported connection with MGK has also revived interest in her romantic history.
She was in a long-term relationship with Coldplay frontman Chris Martin from 2017 until 2025 and was also briefly linked to musician Role Model earlier in 2026.
In a Vogue interview in September, Johnson joked about her attraction to musicians, saying 'They like me. I don't know what to say. And I like them.' Johnson has also been candid about the challenges of dating musicians, describing rock stars as 'tricky motherf***ers'.
Some netizens had no qualms on don't agree with her choice of MGK, saying 'I don't think people necessarily think she's a cool girl, I just feel like most people cannot understand why any woman would wanna date MGK. There were similar comments, if not more aggressive ones when he dated Megan Fox.' Another added, 'Honestly, sometimes a girl gotta date a cringe tall white man just to get it out of the system lol, we've all been there.'
While most of the comments questioned Dakota's choice of MGK, one said, 'I've said this before and I'll say it again. He has line cook energy, and IYKYK.' It remains to be seen whether her latest reported romance will develop into something more serious. For now, Johnson and MGK's outings have given fans plenty to discuss, from their apparent chemistry to the actress's signature bangs.
