Taylor Swift has opened up about her close bond with Dakota Johnson, describing the actress as an “infinitely curious” and “empathetic” friend who stands out for her refreshing honesty.
Writing a candid essay for Time’s 100 Most Influential People of 2026, the 36-year-old singer-songwriter vouched for Johnson’s “reality” in an industry often defined by carefully managed media responses.
Swift praised the best friend for her unique ability to answer questions with such “frank frankness” that people wonder if she’s simply incapable of lying.
Although the two stars have largely kept their relationship out of the public eye, they have been in the same social circle since 2016, often spotted dining with friends like Zoë Kravitz, Cara Delevingne and Suki Waterhouse.
This longtime connection gave Swift a front-row seat to Johnson’s personality, which she describes as being deeply curious about other people’s lives.
According to Swift, the actress constantly explores the “intricate relational intricacies” of the human experience, a trait that fuels her work in front of and behind the camera.
Beyond their personal friendship, Swift highlighted Johnson’s professional courage, specifically noting his willingness to take “newer, bolder risks” by founding his own production company, TeaTime Pictures.
The Grammy-winning artist noted that this willingness to challenge herself is central to who the actress is.
Swift seems to admire the way Johnson balances her captivating on-screen presence with a curious nature behind the scenes, suggesting that this combination is what makes her storytelling so authentic.
Ultimately, Swift believes that Johnson’s commitment to the truth is what defines his legacy in Hollywood.
She concluded her tribute by noting that her friend’s “unfailing truthfulness” helps shape her work into art that feels “as real and timeless as she is.”
By bridging the gap between her public and private persona, Johnson has clearly made a lasting impression on Swift, who considers her a rare example of someone whose career progression is a direct reflection of her authentic and curious character.
