Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan to Star in Film Adaptation of Miami Vice

Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler are set to star in Universal Pictures’ upcoming adaptation of the 1980s television series ‘Miami Vice’, officially titled ‘Miami Vice ’85’. The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski, will see Jordan portray Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs and Butler play James “Sonny” Crockett, roles originally made famous by Philip Michael Thomas and Don Johnson in the NBC series that premiered in 1984.

The project has been confirmed by Variety and other entertainment outlets, with production scheduled to begin later in 2026 after the film’s budget was greenlit by Universal. Kosinski, known for directing ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and ‘F1’, is helming the adaptation, which will be shot for IMAX format. Dylan Clark and his Dylan Clark Productions are producing the film alongside Kosinski.

The screenplay is being written by Oscar nominee Dan Gilroy, based on an earlier draft by Eric Warren Singer. The story draws inspiration from the pilot episode and first season of the original ‘Miami Vice’ series, exploring the glamour and corruption of mid-1980s Miami. Anthony Yerkovich created the original television series, which ran for five seasons and became a cultural touchstone of the decade, particularly noted for its distinctive fashion sensibilities.

Universal has set the theatrical release date for August 6, 2027. This will be the second big-screen adaptation of the franchise, following the 2006 film directed by Michael Mann that starred Colin Farrell as Crockett and Jamie Foxx as Tubbs, which grossed $163 million globally. The 2006 adaptation was noted for its departure from the original series’ visual style, while the upcoming ‘Miami Vice ’85’ aims to return to the aesthetic and tone of the show’s early seasons.

Jordan, who recently won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in ‘Sinners’, and Butler, an Oscar nominee for his role in ‘Elvis’, were first reported to be in talks for the project in late 2025. Their casting was confirmed after Universal approved the film’s budget, with insiders indicating that deals were finalized shortly thereafter. Kosinski has expressed admiration for both actors, stating he had long wanted to work with Jordan and viewed Butler as a rising talent worth watching.

The film is positioned as a revival of the franchise that influenced 1980s popular culture, particularly in fashion and filmmaking. Unlike the 2006 adaptation, which took a more modern approach, ‘Miami Vice ’85’ is explicitly framed as a period piece set in the mid-1980s, seeking to capture the original series’ blend of crime drama and stylish presentation that defined its initial success.