Austin Butler to Star in Reboot of Iconic Miami Vice Franchise

Austin Butler is in discussions to take on a pivotal role in the reboot of the iconic neo-noir franchise, Miami Vice. The project, which aims to revive a series that first captivated audiences over 40 years ago, promises to bring together a fresh cast and creative team to reimagine this beloved crime drama.

Originally airing on NBC from 1984 to 1990, Miami Vice followed two Miami detectives as they navigated the city’s underworld. The series garnered a dedicated fan base, leading to a feature film adaptation directed by Michael Mann in 2006, which has since become a cult classic. The new film is being produced by Universal Pictures and is expected to begin production in 2026.

In this latest iteration, Butler is set to portray the character James “Sonny” Crockett, a role previously brought to life by Don Johnson in the original series and Colin Farrell in the film. The character of Crockett is a war veteran and former football player, known for his complex background and dedication to his work.

Joining Butler is fellow actor Michael B. Jordan, who is reportedly in talks to play Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs. Tubbs, characterized as a hotheaded former NYPD officer, was originally portrayed by Philip Michael Thomas in the series and Jamie Foxx in the film. This combination of talent is generating significant excitement ahead of the film’s release.

The screenplay for the film has been crafted by writers Eric Warren Singer and Dan Gilroy, who aim to capture the essence of the original series while providing a contemporary twist. The new film will draw inspiration from both the pilot episode of Miami Vice and the overarching narrative of its first season, promising to deliver a blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling.

Fans can expect the film to debut in theaters on August 6, 2027. As production gears up, updates on casting and plot details are likely to emerge, making this a highly anticipated project within the entertainment industry. The reboot seeks not only to honor the legacy of the original but also to introduce the world of Miami Vice to a new generation of viewers.

This ambitious revival reflects the enduring popularity of the franchise and the potential for new stories within its established universe. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to see how Butler, Jordan, and the creative team bring their vision to life, revitalizing a series that has left an indelible mark on television history.