In the high-octane world of Hollywood, true friendships can be as elusive as a perfect script. The pressures of fame, demanding schedules, and media scrutiny often leave little room for the bonds that last. Yet, in the unlikeliest of places, a lasting friendship can bloom. Such was the case for Dakota Johnson and Rebel Wilson, two actresses whose paths converged on the set of How to Be Single (2016).

The film, an exploration of life, love, and relationships, was meant to be a cheeky take on single life in New York City. Yet for Johnson and Wilson, it became the genesis of something deeper and far more enduring. Their chemistry on screen quickly transitioned into a vibrant off-screen friendship, built on mutual respect, humor, and an undeniable personal connection. It was a friendship that would grow stronger as the years went on, each supporting the other through the ups and downs of their personal and professional lives.

In an industry where many relationships are fleeting, the friendship between Dakota Johnson and Rebel Wilson stands out—a testament to how shared values, a kindred sense of humor, and mutual admiration can forge something lasting in the chaos of the film industry.

On-Screen Chemistry: A Spark That Led to a Bond

It’s no secret that How to Be Single was more than just a film about navigating life as a single person; it was also about friendship and finding connection in unexpected places. In many ways, the relationship between Dakota’s character, Alice, and Rebel’s character, Robin, mirrored their real-life dynamic. Alice, a somewhat reserved and introspective character, found herself repeatedly thrown into Robin’s wild, uninhibited world. Rebel’s comedic genius added a spark to every scene, while Dakota’s ability to ground her performance with subtlety created a balance that made their on-screen relationship feel authentic and compelling.

From the very first table read, it became apparent that Dakota and Rebel had chemistry—an energy that couldn’t be scripted. Their easy banter and ability to play off each other’s quirks and comedic timing elevated the scenes they shared. The spontaneity they brought to their roles flowed naturally and hinted at a burgeoning real-life friendship. As they navigated their characters’ lives on screen, Dakota and Rebel found themselves forming a bond off-screen as well, one that was rooted in mutual admiration and a shared sense of humor.

Fans noticed the chemistry too. Many began speculating that what they saw on-screen was reflective of a true connection between the two actresses. In interviews during the promotion of the film, both women spoke glowingly of each other, hinting that the camaraderie wasn’t just for show. Rebel’s larger-than-life persona meshed perfectly with Dakota’s more subdued, enigmatic energy, creating a dynamic that was both engaging and effortless.

Shared Humor: The Glue That Binds

One of the key elements that solidified Dakota and Rebel’s friendship was their shared sense of humor. While on the surface they may seem like an odd pairing—Rebel, with her bombastic, in-your-face comedy, and Dakota, with her dry, understated wit—their comedic sensibilities complemented each other perfectly. Both actresses have spoken about how they found themselves constantly laughing on set, trading jokes, and finding humor in the absurdity of life and work in Hollywood.

Rebel’s bold, no-holds-barred humor might have been expected, but what was surprising was Dakota’s own flair for comedy. Known for her more serious roles, including her breakout in Fifty Shades of Grey, Dakota revealed a different side of herself when she teamed up with Rebel. Her ability to land a deadpan joke and play the straight woman to Rebel’s over-the-top antics created moments of pure comedic gold.

The bond they shared through humor was not just relegated to the set. Off-camera, their laughter-filled conversations often continued late into the night. They understood each other on a comedic level that is rare, even in an industry that thrives on humor. Their friendship became a space where they could let their guards down, poke fun at themselves and the sometimes ridiculous world they inhabited, all while supporting each other through the more serious aspects of life and career.

Supportive Relationship: Building Each Other Up

If their humor brought them together, it was their mutual support that deepened the friendship between Dakota and Rebel. Both women have been vocal about how much they admire and respect each other, and that support has been evident in the ways they’ve stood by one another both privately and publicly.

Rebel, known for her candidness, has often praised Dakota for her talent and ability to bring authenticity to every role she takes on. During press tours and interviews, Rebel would often compliment Dakota’s work ethic and dedication, emphasizing that she is not only funny but also deeply thoughtful in her approach to her craft. Rebel has also credited Dakota for helping her remain grounded amid the chaos of Hollywood, stating in interviews that Dakota’s calm and collected nature is something she truly admires.

On the other hand, Dakota has publicly expressed how much she values Rebel’s courage and fearless approach to life and comedy. In interviews, Dakota has described Rebel as a “force of nature,” admiring how she embraces every opportunity with enthusiasm and a positive spirit. Dakota has also acknowledged how Rebel’s unwavering confidence has inspired her to be more self-assured in her own life and career.

Their support for each other extends beyond words. Both actresses have been there for each other during pivotal moments in their careers, showing up at premieres, award shows, and even personal celebrations. Whether it’s celebrating Rebel’s transformative fitness journey or Dakota’s critically acclaimed performances, these two women have continuously championed each other’s successes, proving that their bond goes far beyond the superficial trappings of Hollywood.

Positive Role Models: Body Positivity and Confidence

One of the most striking aspects of Dakota Johnson and Rebel Wilson’s friendship is their shared commitment to promoting body positivity and self-confidence. In an industry that is often ruthless in its expectations of women’s bodies and appearances, both actresses have been outspoken advocates for breaking down these harmful standards. Their outspokenness on the topic has endeared them to a legion of fans who see them as more than just actresses, but as role models for embracing oneself unapologetically.

Rebel Wilson, in particular, has been a trailblazer in the conversation around body positivity. From the beginning of her career, Rebel has defied conventional beauty standards, proudly celebrating her body and encouraging others to do the same. Over the past few years, her weight loss journey has been widely covered in the media, but Rebel has remained steadfast in emphasizing that her focus is on health and well-being rather than fitting into a societal mold.

Dakota, while more reserved in the public eye, has also made her stance on body image clear. She has spoken out about the pressures women in Hollywood face to conform to certain physical ideals, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of beauty. Dakota’s confidence in her natural self has been an inspiration to her fans, many of whom look to her as a figure of quiet strength and authenticity.

Together, Dakota and Rebel’s friendship has become a beacon of positivity. Their public camaraderie and mutual respect send a powerful message: that true beauty comes from within, and that confidence and self-acceptance are key to living a fulfilling life.

Enduring Friendship: A Bond That Goes Beyond the Screen

Hollywood friendships can be fleeting, often existing only within the bubble of a film set or press tour. But for Dakota Johnson and Rebel Wilson, their bond has endured long after the cameras stopped rolling on How to Be Single. Over the years, their friendship has remained a constant in both of their lives, with each woman publicly acknowledging the importance of the other in interviews, on social media, and at various industry events.

Rebel and Dakota have been spotted together at parties, award shows, and even personal milestones, often photographed laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Whether it’s Rebel cheering on Dakota’s latest film or Dakota applauding Rebel’s foray into directing and producing, their support for each other remains unwavering.

In a world that is often more about competition than camaraderie, Dakota and Rebel’s friendship is a breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder that, in an industry that can be ruthless and isolating, true friendships can still form, thrive, and evolve. As both women continue to navigate the complexities of fame and career, they have each other to lean on—a fact that both have acknowledged as one of the greatest gifts to come from their time working together.

Their friendship may have started on a film set, but it’s clear that Dakota Johnson and Rebel Wilson’s bond is something far more lasting. It’s a friendship that has withstood the test of time, and one that will likely continue to inspire their fans for years to come.