Don Johnson: A Star of the '80s

The Actor Behind Detective James Sonny Crockett

A Look at His Career and Legacy

Don Johnson rose to fame in the 1980s with his iconic role as Detective James Sonny Crockett in the NBC television series "Miami Vice." The show became a global phenomenon, making Johnson a household name and a symbol of the decade's excess and glamour.

Born in Flat Creek, Missouri, in 1949, Johnson began his acting career in the 1970s with small roles in films and television shows. His breakthrough came with "Miami Vice," which premiered in 1984. As Sonny Crockett, he played an undercover detective working in Miami's drug-infested underbelly.

Johnson's portrayal of Crockett was both stylish and charismatic, and the character quickly became a fan favorite. The show's popularity also helped popularize pastel colors, Italian suits, and the synth-pop music that became synonymous with the 1980s.

After "Miami Vice" ended in 1989, Johnson continued to act in films and television shows. However, he never quite recaptured the same level of success he had with the iconic role that made him a star.

Despite his post-"Miami Vice" career, Johnson remains one of the most recognizable figures of the 1980s. His portrayal of Detective James Sonny Crockett created a lasting impression on popular culture, and he continues to be associated with the era of fast cars, loud music, and big hair.