Featured Photo Credit: Hilary Jones

For this special Father’s Day issue, Mekka Magazine is proud to shine a light on someone who wears many hats — former pro athlete, talented actor, and most importantly, a devoted dad. You might recognize Julian Griffith from his breakout role in Hardball or his work on Chicago PD, but off-screen, he’s just “Dad” to his amazing daughter, Jolie.

This issue is all about leading with love, living with intention, and building a legacy that lasts — and Julian is doing exactly that.

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A Father’s Love Redefined

MEKKA: Julian, what has fatherhood taught you about love?

JULIAN: Honestly, I didn’t really understand what unconditional love was until I became a father. Being Jolie’s dad forced me to get focused and intentional with my life. Everything I do now isn’t just for me — it’s for her, too. Even when I have to discipline her, I always make sure she knows it’s coming from love. I tell her after, “I love you, always.”

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The Power of Consistency

MEKKA: What’s your biggest goal when it comes to raising Jolie?

JULIAN: Structure and routine. That’s everything. I make sure we stick to a healthy, balanced schedule every day. It might not always be fun, but that consistency gives her the foundation to become a strong, successful adult.

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Values That Stick

MEKKA: What core values do you hope Jolie carries with her as she grows up?

JULIAN: A few things — faith, discipline, hard work, confidence, and peace. We pray together. She knows to pray before bed and thank God for her blessings. Discipline is a must, even when she’s not happy with me. Hard work? She sees me grinding every day. Nothing I have was handed to me. And confidence? That girl has it! She’s bold, and not afraid to stand alone — which, to me, is a form of peace.

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A Proud Moment

MEKKA: Can you share a moment where your support made a big difference for Jolie?

JULIAN: For sure. When she was little, she’d say, “I don’t want to play ‘Daseball’ — I’m too small!” But she watched the kids I train and one day, she grabbed her glove and joined them without me asking. She looked up, all proud, and said, “Did you see me, Daddy?!” It was one of those moments where I saw her confidence kick in. That meant everything to me.

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Photo Credit : Courtesy of Julian Griffith

Staying True to Purpose

MEKKA: Has fatherhood changed how you approach your work?

JULIAN: It didn’t change my purpose — it made me double down on it. I’ve turned down acting roles that didn’t line up with the example I want to set for her. I want her to be proud of the stories I tell. I don’t care how big the paycheck is — if it compromises my integrity, it’s a no.

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A Legacy of Character

MEKKA: What do you hope Jolie takes from your example?

JULIAN: I hope she learns to stay focused, stay hungry, and never settle. I try to pour wisdom into her every day — she’s creative, smart, and she’s not here to blend in. I believe she’s meant to stand out.

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Photo Credit : Courtesy of Julian Griffith

Staying Connected

MEKKA: How do you stay in tune with her world?

JULIAN: I remind myself often — she’s a kid. Her brain’s still growing. I can be impatient and a bit of a perfectionist, so I work hard to show her grace. I also let her know, “I’m not your friend — I’m your parent.” She might not like that now, but she’ll understand one day.

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Conversations That Matter

MEKKA: What’s a meaningful talk you’ve had with Jolie?

JULIAN: A few years ago, she asked why her mom and I live in different homes. I told her, “We may not live together, but we both love you deeply and are always here for you.” That conversation stuck with me.

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Passing the Torch

MEKKA: How do you make sure Jolie understands your family’s values?

JULIAN: I remind her all the time: “You’re a Griffith. We don’t quit. We lead with faith, we go hard for what we want, and we take care of others.” She’s part of something bigger — and I want her to feel that pride.

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Looking Ahead

MEKKA: What do you hope Jolie will always remember about you?

JULIAN: That her dad was present. No matter where she ends up in life, she’ll never be able to say I wasn’t there. She won’t have to make excuses — she’ll be able to say, “Because of my dad…”

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Final Thoughts

JULIAN: Happy Father’s Day to all the real dads out there. Don’t let anyone tell you we don’t matter — because we do.

You can keep up with Julian on Instagram @OfficialJulianGriffith and TikTok @TheJulianGriffith.