The miami vice 85 cast is drawing fresh attention following the release of first-look images featuring Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler in their new roles. The actors will portray undercover detectives Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs and James “Sonny” Crockett in Miami Vice ’85, a feature film that revisits the world of the influential 1980s crime drama. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the movie brings together a prominent ensemble and returns to the glamour, danger, and corruption of mid-1980s Miami.
Universal Pictures has scheduled the film for a theatrical release on May 19, 2028. Production is underway, and the first-look images offer audiences an early glimpse of the new interpretation of two characters who became television icons.
Michael B. Jordan Takes on Rico Tubbs
Michael B. Jordan will play Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs, the experienced detective whose undercover work forms one half of the story’s central partnership.
Tubbs originally became famous through Philip Michael Thomas’s performance in the television series. The character’s intelligence, investigative instincts, and ability to navigate dangerous criminal circles helped establish him as an essential part of the franchise.
Jordan brings considerable experience in action and dramatic roles to the production. His film credits include Creed, Black Panther, and Sinners. These performances have demonstrated his ability to carry major productions while portraying characters facing demanding personal and professional challenges.
In the new film, Jordan will introduce Tubbs to audiences through a fresh performance rather than attempting to reproduce Thomas’s original interpretation. The story’s 1980s setting provides the backdrop for a new portrayal of the detective’s undercover investigations.
Austin Butler Plays Sonny Crockett
Austin Butler will portray James “Sonny” Crockett, the Miami detective originally played by Don Johnson.
Crockett became one of television’s most recognizable police characters through his undercover assignments, distinctive fashion, and complicated personal life. His partnership with Tubbs helped make the original series a defining crime drama of its era.
Butler has built a prominent film career through performances in Elvis and Dune: Part Two, among other productions. His casting gives the new movie a lead actor with experience in physically demanding roles and character-focused storytelling.
The pairing of Butler and Jordan is central to the film’s appeal. Their characters must work together while entering criminal environments where maintaining a convincing identity can be as important as gathering evidence.
The first-look images released in October 2026 confirmed the actors in character, marking an important promotional milestone for the production.
Who Else Is in the Miami Vice ’85 Cast?
The supporting ensemble includes actors with backgrounds in crime dramas, action films, television, and comedy.
John Leguizamo is among the most notable additions. He is set to portray the movie’s villain, although the character’s full identity and backstory have not been publicly detailed.
Leguizamo also appeared in the original television series early in his career. His return creates a connection between the new production and the franchise’s history.
The supporting cast also includes:
- Alden Ehrenreich: Known for Solo: A Star Wars Story, Hail, Caesar!, and Oppenheimer.
- Whitney Peak: Recognized for Gossip Girl and Hocus Pocus 2.
- Camila Morrone: Known for Daisy Jones & the Six and Marmalade.
- Danny Ramirez: Recognized for Top Gun: Maverick and Marvel productions.
- Walton Goggins: Known for Justified, The Hateful Eight, and Fallout.
- André Holland: Recognized for Moonlight and The Knick.
- Edi Gathegi: Known for For All Mankind and X-Men: First Class.
- Michael Irby: Recognized for Mayans M.C. and The Unit.
- Andrew Schulz: A comedian and actor known for stand-up and screen appearances.
The studio has not publicly identified every supporting character. Consequently, specific claims about their roles in the investigation or their relationships with Crockett and Tubbs remain unconfirmed.
Joseph Kosinski Directs the New Film
Joseph Kosinski is directing the production, bringing experience from large-scale cinematic projects such as Top Gun: Maverick and F1.
Dan Gilroy is writing the screenplay. His work includes Nightcrawler, a crime thriller known for its examination of ambition and the darker side of urban life.
The movie draws inspiration from the original television series’ pilot episode and first season. That creative direction returns the story to the period when Crockett and Tubbs first established their partnership.
The production aims to revisit the distinctive atmosphere associated with the franchise without simply placing its characters in a contemporary setting.
The mid-1980s environment is an important part of the concept. Fashion, nightlife, music, waterfront locations, and the contrast between Miami’s glamorous image and its criminal underworld all contributed to the original show’s identity.
How the New Film Connects to the Original Series
The original Miami Vice premiered on NBC in September 1984. Don Johnson played Sonny Crockett, while Philip Michael Thomas portrayed Rico Tubbs.
The series followed undercover detectives investigating drug trafficking, organized crime, and other criminal operations in South Florida. Its cinematic presentation and contemporary soundtrack helped distinguish it from conventional police procedurals.
Other prominent cast members included Edward James Olmos as Lieutenant Martin Castillo, Saundra Santiago as Gina Calabrese, Olivia Brown as Trudy Joplin, Michael Talbott as Stan Switek, and John Diehl as Larry Zito.
The television series ran for five seasons, concluding in 1989. Its influence extended beyond crime television, particularly through its visual style and use of popular music.
The new movie introduces a different cast and a feature-film approach. Although it draws on the original series, it should not be confused with a continuation featuring the original actors in their familiar roles.
What Is Miami Vice ’85 About?
The film returns to Miami during the 1980s, following detectives who work undercover to infiltrate criminal enterprises.
Crockett and Tubbs must navigate dangerous environments while investigating organized crime. Their work requires them to build credible identities and interact with people who could expose their real purpose.
The setting allows the production to revisit the combination of glamour and corruption that defined the original series. However, a complete plot synopsis, detailed character arcs, and the full nature of the central criminal investigation have not been publicly disclosed.
The involvement of a substantial supporting cast suggests a broader ensemble surrounding the two leads, but the precise connections between the characters remain unknown.
When Will Miami Vice ’85 Be Released?
The film is currently scheduled to reach U.S. theaters on May 19, 2028.
The release date was moved from an earlier 2027 schedule. The new date places the production on the calendar for spring 2028, although future studio announcements could change the timetable.
The October 2026 first-look images provide an early promotional glimpse of Jordan and Butler in their respective roles. Additional information about the film, including character details and further footage, may be released as the theatrical launch approaches.
For now, the confirmed leads, director, supporting ensemble, and release date provide the clearest picture of the project.
Why the Casting Matters to Fans
Recasting Crockett and Tubbs is a major undertaking because both characters remain closely associated with the original actors.
Johnson and Thomas established a partnership that became the foundation of the franchise. Jordan and Butler now have the opportunity to reinterpret that relationship for audiences who remember the television series as well as viewers discovering it for the first time.
Leguizamo’s involvement adds another point of connection with the original show. His return as the antagonist creates a notable career milestone, although the details of his character remain limited.
The production’s 1980s setting is equally significant. Rather than relying exclusively on familiar character names, the film returns to the period that helped make Miami Vice culturally distinctive.
Its eventual reception will depend on the performances, screenplay, direction, and ability to balance the original show’s identity with a compelling new story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the main stars of Miami Vice ’85?
Michael B. Jordan plays Rico Tubbs, while Austin Butler portrays Sonny Crockett. John Leguizamo and several other established actors appear in supporting roles.
Who plays the villain?
John Leguizamo is set to play the villain. The character’s full name and background have not been publicly detailed.
Who directed the movie?
Joseph Kosinski directs the film, with Dan Gilroy writing the screenplay.
When is the release date?
The currently scheduled U.S. theatrical release date is May 19, 2028.
Are Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas returning?
Jordan and Butler have been announced as the new Tubbs and Crockett. A return by Johnson or Thomas has not been confirmed in the casting information discussed here.
Is the movie set in modern Miami?
No. The production is built around mid-1980s Miami and draws inspiration from the original series’ pilot episode and first season.
The upcoming film gives a new generation of performers an opportunity to revisit a landmark television franchise. As production continues, the cast’s undisclosed roles and the story’s remaining details are likely to be key areas of audience interest.