Few TV series captured the spirit of the 1980s quite like “Miami Vice.” With its pastel suits, pulsing synth soundtrack, and slick depiction of Miami’s criminal underworld, the show redefined what television could look and sound like—blending action, style, and music into a cultural phenomenon.
Now, nearly four decades after Crockett and Tubbs first hit the streets, the neon lights are set to flicker back on. A new film adaptation, directed by “Top Gun: Maverick” filmmaker Joseph Kosinski was officially announced on April 28, and is slated for release on August 6, 2027. And if early talks pan out, Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler might just be the duo to bring the legendary partners back to life.
Universal Eyes Two of Hollywood’s Brightest for the Modern ‘Miami Vice’
According to Deadline, Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler are reportedly in early talks to star as Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs and James “Sonny” Crockett, respectively, in Universal’s upcoming “Miami Vice” reboot. Sources indicate that while no deals are finalized, both actors have expressed strong interest in the project, with production slated to begin in late 2026.
Source: IMDb
Jordan’s recent career trajectory has seen him take on diverse and challenging roles. This year, he starred in “Sinners,” the genre-blending horror picture directed by Ryan Coogler. Set in 1932 Mississippi, Jordan portrayed twin brothers Smoke and Stack, who return to their hometown to open a juke joint, only to encounter a supernatural evil. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $367 million worldwide, and earned Jordan critical acclaim for his dual performance.
Meanwhile, Austin Butler has been making waves with his recent projects. In “Eddington,” directed by Ari Aster, Butler joined an ensemble cast including Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone. The film, which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, delves into a small-town conflict that escalates into a community-wide crisis. Butler’s performance has been noted for its depth and complexity, showcasing his range as an actor.
Additionally, Butler starred in “Caught Stealing,” the 1990s-set crime thriller directed by Darren Aronofsky. Portraying Hank Thompson, a former baseball player entangled in a dangerous underworld, Butler underwent intense physical preparation for the role, including performing his own stunts and sustaining injuries during filming.
With both actors demonstrating their versatility and commitment to diverse roles, their potential collaboration in “Miami Vice” has generated significant anticipation. As talks continue, fans are eager to see how Jordan and Butler will bring their unique interpretations to the legendary characters of Tubbs and Crockett.
