I never imagined my life would unfold like a film script, full of unexpected turns, bright lights, and the quiet magic of raising children. Yet here I am, Johanna Kokkila, now Harlin, a woman who traded chalkboards for cameras, ice rinks for red carpets, and quiet Finnish evenings for the vibrant chaos of Miami. My story is one of reinvention, love, and the daily dance of motherhood.
My Early Years in Pori
I was born in Pori, Finland, at the end of 1993. The tight-knit society, harsh winters, and salty air of the small coastal city molded me. I’ve always enjoyed performing. My playground consisted of local videos, school performances, and even little ads. I could step outside of myself and become someone else on stage, and it felt like home.
I was introduced to figure skating at a young age. I put a lot of effort into my training and participated in international formation skating competitions. I learned discipline with each glide over the ice. Every spin was liberating, a momentary escape from the everyday. My resilience was strengthened over those years. They also sowed the seed of performance, which has remained with me ever since.
Education, Teaching, and the Fitness World
After high school I pursued education seriously. I earned a master’s degree in education and began teaching. Standing in front of a classroom in Vaasa, I loved guiding young minds. Yet something stirred inside me, a quiet call toward creativity beyond lesson plans.
Fitness became my next chapter. I competed in bikini fitness competitions. The gym became my sanctuary. Training sculpted not only my body but my determination. Each rep, each meal plan, felt like building a stronger version of myself. I learned that transformation demands patience and grit. Those lessons still guide me today.
Stepping into Film
I was always drawn to movies. When I was a kid, movies were my getaway. I took advantage of the opportunity to try out. Class Reunion 3 was my first role in 2021. It was thrilling to play Lill in the Finnish comedy. The enthusiasm on the set was palpable. I felt at home there.
There were more chances. I played Dr. Dana Dale in Refuge and Lydia Radek in The Bricklayer in 2023. Soon after, producing joined acting. I co-produced Chapter 1 of the Strangers trilogy in 2024, Chapter 2 in 2025, and Chapter 3 in 2026. I also co-produced The Bricklayer. On Deep Water, I was also an executive producer. I learned the intricacies of filming from each assignment. Vision, compromise, and constant problem-solving are all necessary for production. In that universe, I flourish.
Meeting Renny and Building Our Life Together
I met Renny Harlin in 2020. Our connection sparked instantly. He is a force, a director with a career spanning decades. We married on June 14, 2021. That day felt like the start of a new adventure. We moved to Miami soon after. The city welcomed us with sunshine and possibility.
Life with Renny is dynamic. We travel constantly for work. Premieres, meetings, and late-night script sessions fill our calendar. Yet we carve out moments for each other. We launched The Harlin Show podcast to share stories from our world. Talking openly about creativity, family, and challenges brings us closer.
Our Growing Family
Family is my heart’s center. Renny and I have built a home filled with laughter and love.
Our daughter Coco arrived in July 2022. She was born in Miami. Her bright eyes and fearless spirit light up every room. She explores the world with wonder. At three years old she already asks endless questions. Watching her grow is pure magic.
Our son Jules joined us in April 2024. Also born in Miami, he carries a calm intensity. His smiles melt me. He loves music and cuddles. At nearly two he toddles after his big sister, creating joyful chaos.
We announced our third child in late 2025. Another boy, due in spring 2026. Pregnancy this time feels different. I embrace the changes with gratitude. Morning sickness, sleepless nights, the gentle kicks. They remind me how life keeps expanding.
Here is a simple overview of our family:
| Family Member | Relation to Me | Birth Date | A Few Words About Them |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renny Harlin | Husband | March 1959 | Visionary director, loving partner, my greatest supporter |
| Coco Harlin | Daughter | July 2022 | Curious, energetic, our little explorer |
| Jules Harlin | Son | April 2024 | Gentle, musical, full of quiet joy |
| Third Son (expected) | Son | Spring 2026 | Already loved, bringing more light to our home |
No extended family details fill public pages. My parents and siblings stay private. We cherish those bonds away from cameras.
Life in Miami and the Balance I Seek
Miami offers freedom. In Finland I sometimes felt boxed in by expectations. Here I can be mother, actress, producer, wife, all at once. The city pulses with energy. We walk beaches, attend galas, chase dreams. Jet lag is constant. Vacations are rare. Yet this rhythm suits us.
Motherhood reshapes everything. Mornings begin with tiny voices and messy breakfasts. Afternoons juggle calls and playtime. Evenings bring stories and goodnight kisses. I learn patience anew every day. I learn grace.
My path continues. New projects wait. Family grows. I move forward with open arms, ready for whatever scene comes next.
FAQ
Who is Johanna Kokkila?
I am Johanna Kokkila, now Harlin, a Finnish-born actress, producer, former teacher, and fitness athlete. I live in Miami with my husband Renny Harlin and our children.
When and where was Johanna Kokkila born?
I was born in Pori, Finland, in late 1993.
What is Johanna Kokkila’s educational background?
I hold a master’s degree in education and worked as a teacher before entering entertainment.
Who is Johanna Kokkila married to?
I am married to film director Renny Harlin since June 14, 2021.
How many children does Johanna Kokkila have?
We have two children now, Coco born July 2022 and Jules born April 2024, and our third son is due in spring 2026.
What are some of Johanna Kokkila’s notable film roles?
I played Lill in Class Reunion 3 (2021), Dr. Dana Dale in Refuge (2023), and Lydia Radek in The Bricklayer (2023).
What producing credits does Johanna Kokkila have?
I co-produced The Bricklayer (2023) and the Strangers trilogy (Chapters 1 through 3, 2024-2026), plus executive producer on Deep Water (2026).
Where does Johanna Kokkila live now?
I live in Miami, Florida, with my family.
Does Johanna Kokkila have a podcast?
Yes, I co-host The Harlin Show with my husband Renny, where we discuss films, life, and family.
