Rising Stars: Dior Goodjohn
Photography by EMILYNN ROSE
Dior Goodjohn is the perfect mix of ambition and authenticity, a young talent who has carved a path entirely her own. Starring in the global hit Disney+ series Percy Jackson & The Olympians, Dior returns for Season 2, premiering on December 10th. From the set to everyday life, she moves with intention, style, and an unshakable drive. In our exclusive interview, she shares the rituals, inspirations, and small joys that shape her world—and reveal the woman behind the rising star.
If your life were a movie right now, what would the title be?
I would say Only in LA, Becoming, or D.I.V.A. I’m more interested in what you or fans of the series would call it!
How would you describe your journey to this point in three words?
Humility, perseverance, and God.
Was there a moment when you realized this career path was truly yours?
There was never one lightning-bolt moment. It was more of a feeling before I even had the words to express what I really wanted. It was this deep knowing of who I was and am meant to be that I felt long before I could put it into sentences. It didn’t feel like a decision, but more so a truth that I grew into.
How do you define your personal style, both on and off set?
I am really into over-accessorizing right now—jewels, satin and lace scarves, glasses, grills, burgundy and maroon, cheetah print, all black are some of my current wardrobe staples. I give LA/Persian chic with the gem tones and fabrics I gravitate towards. I also base what I wear on what I am feeling or want to express each day. If I am going to the studio to record, to set to shoot, or depending on the weather outside, it definitely impacts what I wear. I will say there is a very LA undertone to everything I wear—Cali girl curse!
Sneakers or heels—and why?
Both, because there is a time and place for everything.
If you could swap closets with any celebrity for a day, who would it be?
Zoë Kravitz, Bella Hadid, Gabriette, or Billie Eilish.
Which roles or projects have challenged you the most creatively?
There was a short film I worked on recently called Azi. It was one of the more challenging characters I’ve gotten to play. There were so many layers to the story and so much to unpack with little dialogue between the characters. So much of it was direct address and learning to channel and radiate emotion. It was a skill I really got to develop on that set.
Who in the industry do you look up to, and why?
God, there are so many people—Michael Jackson, RAYE, Zendaya, Scarlett Johansson, Beyoncé, amaarae, Angelina Jolie, Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Brad Pitt… The list goes on and on. But I think the common denominator between all these people is that they’re humble, they work hard, and they strive to be the absolute best at what they do, and I resonate with that deeply.
How do you balance the pressures of fame with staying true to yourself?
Keeping my circle limited to the few people that I love and trust with my life, knowing when my energy is depleted, and making my life about the craft as opposed to what the craft can give me.
What’s one habit or ritual that keeps you feeling grounded?
I have a set of journals that I use in the morning and at night. I have playlists I listen to when I first wake up and when I’m trying to fall asleep. Taking that time in the morning to list out what I am grateful for, get clarity on my heart’s desires, and release anything clouding my vision resets my system and allows me to connect to whatever is greater than me. It also brings me back to my youngest self—she knows what she wants and she knows that nothing can get in her way. That’s what I’m going for daily.
What’s a typical day in your life when you’re not working?
- Wake up
- Journaling and playlist on full blast
while I get ready for the gym
- Exercise or dance
-Vocalize
- Shoot a self-tape, go to the studio to write, or take a couple of admin meetings with my manager and my mom
- Shower and listen to some Chet Baker
- Sleep and repeat
How do you approach taking risks in your career or personal style?
Honestly, just leaping. The greatest rewards exist on the opposite side of fear. You can just jump and flex your muscle of faith. You have nothing to lose.
What’s your go-to “pick-me-up” song or playlist?
I have an entire playlist for it. It’s quite long, so I won’t go through the whole thing, but the top six songs are:
Float, Haute — Janelle Monáe
Shut Up, Successful — Ariana Grande
Cocky AF — Megan Thee Stallion
Good Thing — Kehlani and Zedd
Coffee, tea, or something stronger—what fuels your creativity?
The world. Everything in it, the beauty in it, the pain in it, the people in it that surround and support me—as well as a Red Bull here and there.
If you could teleport anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
I’ve always wanted to travel to Asia—I’d probably be in Thailand or Japan.
Who in your life always makes you laugh, no matter what?
Honestly, my dad and my vocal engineer. They’re so unhinged, it’s actually insane.
What’s a small joy in your day that always makes you smile?
Being on set or in the studio. I can’t believe I’m living my dreams and doing everything that I’ve always wanted to do at my age. There are definitely pinch-me moments every day. Seeing the love and support from the fans means the world—they are so kind and such beautiful people. I’m so grateful people have chosen to care about me and the series. I also love seeing babies on the street, especially when they’re laughing or looking like they’re confused about something.
Which upcoming projects or dreams are you most excited to share?
God… There are too many to list—stick around and you’ll see ’em!
What do you hope people take away from your work and presence in the industry?
That literally nothing is impossible as long as you have unwavering faith and believe everything is happening for you. I think perseverance will get you further than talent ever will.
What’s one rule you live by—and one you secretly break all the time?
Small wins consistently over big wins sporadically.
No gluten, no dairy—lol I really just can’t live without a pastry, to be honest.
Hair by SABRINA PORSCHE
Makeup: MEGAN LOMBARDI
Styled by MAEVE REILLY
