A series that defined the 1980s
With its pastel suits, sleek Ferraris, roaring speedboats, and a groundbreaking soundtrack, Miami Vice was more than just a TV show — it became a cultural phenomenon. Premiering in 1984, the stylish crime drama reimagined the cop genre with cinematic flair while spotlighting the vibrant Art Deco glamour of Miami Beach.
The unforgettable pilot drive
Fans still recall the hauntingly cool moment from the pilot episode when Sonny Crockett takes a late-night drive, set perfectly to Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight. That scene set the tone for what the series would become: part action thriller, part visual symphony of the 1980s.
A love letter to Miami
Each episode of Miami Vice was a neon-soaked postcard, celebrating the city’s nightlife, culture, and contradictions. The show’s influence even extended beyond television, contributing to the revitalization of Miami Beach at a time when the city was struggling with crime and decay.
Celebrating four decades of impact
Now, 41 years later, the cast and crew are reuniting for “MV 41,” an annual fan celebration drawing devotees from across the U.S. Among those attending is Edward James Olmos, who won an Emmy for his role as stoic Lieutenant Martin Castillo.
A global phenomenon
Reflecting on the series’ legacy, Olmos admitted that none of the cast could have predicted its global reach: “I don’t think anybody really could. It swept the world. It was the most viewed television program of its time.”
