Miami Vice 40th Anniversary Reunion: A Comprehensive Guide
Miami Vice, the iconic 1980s television show that brought the vibrant streets of Miami into living rooms across America, celebrates its 40th Anniversary Reunion this year. Fans of the show are in for a treat from September 12-15, 2024, as the city that set the stage for this cultural phenomenon comes alive with a series of exclusive events. Here's everything you need to know about the Miami Vice 40th Reunion in Miami, Florida. The Miami Vice 40th Anniversary Reunion promises four days packed with nostalgia, including walking and bus tours of filming locations, special cast dinners, fan meet-ups, and merchandise available for purchase. Below is a breakdown of each event, so you can plan your trip to relive the Miami Vice magic.
Main Events at the Miami Vice 40th Reunion
1. Walking Tour of Filming Sites
When: September 12, 2024, 10:00 AM
Where: Downtown Miami and surrounding areas
What to Expect: This guided walking tour will take fans through iconic Miami Vice filming locations, allowing you to relive some of the most memorable moments from the show. Expect stops at spots like the Freedom Tower and Ocean Drive, where Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Tubbs fought crime in style. The tour is a must-do for fans eager to soak in the Miami scenery that became a character in its own right in the show.
2. Bus Tour of Iconic Miami Vice Locations
When: September 13-15, 2024, 9:00AM, 1:00 PM or 9:00PM
Where: Meet-up point at Coconut Grove
What to Expect: Hop on a bus to cover more ground on this expansive tour of filming locations spread throughout Miami. The tour will include a visit to Star Island, famous for its luxurious mansions often seen on the show, and other waterfront locations. Fans can expect knowledgeable guides sharing behind-the-scenes stories as they journey through Miami Vice’s glamor and grit. Various bus tour times of departure available, included a night tour.
3. Special Cast Dinners
When: September 13 and 14th, 5:00 or 7:30 PM Seatings
Where: The Mutiny Hotel, Coconut Grove
What to Expect: Enjoy an intimate dining experience with select cast and crew members of Miami Vice. This exclusive dinner will take place at the famous Mutiny Hotel, a location synonymous with the Miami Vice era. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal while mingling with the stars and discussing the show that helped define Miami in the 1980s.
4. Fan Meet-Ups and Merchandise Sale
When: Throughout the event (September 12-15, 2024)
Where: Various Miami locations, including the event's main venue
What to Expect: Fans will have the chance to meet fellow Miami Vice enthusiasts, swap stories, and purchase exclusive memorabilia, including books like The Mutiny Key Chains and Hotel Scarface. Don’t miss out on limited-edition items available at the event.
Attending Cast and Crew at the Miami Vice 40th Reunion
1. Don Johnson
Character: Sonny Crockett
Role in Miami Vice: Don Johnson played Detective James "Sonny" Crockett, a slick, undercover vice cop known for his white suits, pastel shirts, and cool demeanor. Crockett was a former football player who infiltrated Miami’s criminal underworld while living aboard his yacht with his pet alligator, Elvis. His charismatic presence and daring investigations made him the face of Miami Vice.
Other Notable Appearances: In addition to his work on Miami Vice, Johnson starred in Nash Bridges and appeared in Django Unchained.
2. Philip Michael Thomas
Character: Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs
Role in Miami Vice: Philip Michael Thomas portrayed Ricardo Tubbs, a former NYPD detective who came to Miami to avenge his brother's death. Tubbs joined Crockett as his partner, forming one of TV's most iconic cop duos. Known for his street smarts and sophisticated style, Tubbs brought a balance of grit and intellect to the show.
Other Notable Appearances: After Miami Vice, Thomas transitioned into voice work, including roles in the Grand Theft Auto video game series.
3. Edward James Olmos
Character: Lieutenant Martin Castillo
Role in Miami Vice: Olmos played the stoic and enigmatic Lieutenant Martin Castillo, Crockett and Tubbs' superior. Unlike his often flamboyant detectives, Castillo was a man of few words, often remaining in the shadows, but his mysterious past and calm authority made him a compelling character. He was deeply committed to justice and had an extensive history in international drug enforcement.
Other Notable Appearances: Olmos later gained fame in Battlestar Galactica and received critical acclaim for his Oscar-nominated role in Stand and Deliver.
4. Saundra Santiago
Character: Gina Calabrese
Role in Miami Vice: Santiago played Detective Gina Calabrese, a vice cop who often went undercover in high-stakes cases. Known for her toughness and resourcefulness, Gina's character had a complex relationship with Sonny Crockett and was frequently involved in operations targeting Miami’s most dangerous criminals.
Other Notable Appearances: Post-Miami Vice, Santiago appeared in hit shows like The Sopranos and Gotham.
5. Michael Talbott
Character: Stan Switek
Role in Miami Vice: Talbott portrayed Stan Switek, a surveillance expert and one of the department’s key undercover operatives. While often providing comic relief, Switek was an essential part of the team, using his tech skills and wit to support the more action-packed endeavors of Crockett and Tubbs.
Other Notable Appearances: Talbott's other roles include appearances in First Blood and Carrie.
6. John Diehl
Character: Larry Zito
Role in Miami Vice: Diehl played Detective Larry Zito, Switek’s partner in surveillance. Zito was known for his dry humor and methodical approach to undercover work. His untimely death in the series remains one of the show’s most memorable and emotional moments.
Other Notable Appearances: Outside Miami Vice, Diehl has appeared in films like Jurassic Park III and Stargate.
Miami Vice's Impact on South Florida
Miami Vice was more than just a television show—it was a cultural phenomenon that transformed how people viewed Miami. The show's use of South Florida as a backdrop showcased the region’s unique blend of tropical landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culture, turning Miami into a must-visit destination. From the pastel colors of Art Decobuildings to the bustling streets of Little Havana, Miami Vice put Miami on the map for travelers worldwide.
The show’s influence can still be felt today, as many fans travel to South Florida to visit the locations made famous by Sonny and Tubbs. The Miami Vice 40th Reunion allows you to walk in their footsteps and see firsthand the spots that contributed to the show's lasting legacy.
The Mutiny Hotel: A Key Part of Miami Vice Culture
While Miami Vice was famous for its slick visuals and crime-fighting drama, the real-life Mutiny Hotel in Coconut Grove played a subtle but significant role in defining Miami's glamorous and sometimes dangerous image. During the show’s heyday, The Mutiny was a hotspot for the city's elite and a regular filming location.
Fans attending the reunion can take a trip down memory lane by visiting the hotel, which has been transformed into a luxury resort. The Mutiny Hotel will host several reunion events, including the special cast dinner. While you're there, enjoy a custom cocktail at the hotel's renowned bar, the perfect place to sit back and soak in the nostalgia of the Miami Vice era. Don’t forget to purchase a copy of Hotel Scarface or The Mutiny Key Chains from the front desk to commemorate your visit.
5 Must-See Locations During the Miami Vice 40th Anniversary Reunion
As you gear up for the Miami Vice 40th Anniversary Reunion, you’ll want to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Miami while visiting the iconic locations that played a role in the show. Here’s a list of must-see spots to explore during your time in the Magic City.
1. The Mutiny Hotel
Located in Coconut Grove, The Mutiny Hotel is a legendary Miami location closely tied to the era of Miami Vice. During the 1980s, it was a hotspot for the city’s elite, known for its high-end clientele, luxurious setting, and a bit of scandalous history. Today, the hotel has been transformed into a luxury resort, offering fans a chance to visit one of the real-life inspirations for Miami Vice's glamorous yet gritty world. Stop by the bar for a special cocktail, tour the famous hotel, and perhaps spot a few of the show's cast members during the reunion events.
2. Ocean Drive
As one of the most iconic streets in Miami, Ocean Drive was a frequent backdrop for many scenes in Miami Vice. Its neon lights, art deco architecture, and trendy atmosphere still capture the essence of Miami nightlife. Take a stroll along this famous street, grab a drink at one of the open-air cafes, and picture yourself in a classic Crockett-and-Tubbs-style stakeout.
3. Star Island
Known for its extravagant homes and waterfront views, Star Island was often showcased in the show as a symbol of Miami's opulence. While this exclusive island is not open to the public, you can enjoy a boat tour around the area to catch a glimpse of the luxurious estates that were used as filming locations.
4. Freedom Tower
A Miami landmark featured in many episodes, the Freedom Tower stands as a symbol of the city's rich history and culture. It’s a must-visit for fans of the show, as well as anyone interested in Miami's unique blend of cultures. Today, the building houses an art museum and offers insight into the city’s Cuban-American heritage.
5. Little Havana
No trip to Miami would be complete without visiting Little Havana, a vibrant neighborhood filled with Cuban culture, food, and music. While Miami Vice highlighted the neighborhood’s role in Miami's criminal underworld, Little Havana is a lively, family-friendly area today. Be sure to try a café Cubano, enjoy live salsa music, and explore the local markets.
Whether you're walking the same streets as Sonny and Tubbs or exploring Miami’s glamorous side, these locations are sure to enhance your Miami Vice 40th Reunion experience.
The Miami Vice 40th Reunion is set to be an unforgettable event for fans of the show, with a lineup of exciting tours, exclusive dinners, and the opportunity to meet some of the beloved cast and crew. Miami Vice transformed Miami into an iconic destination, and this event provides the perfect chance to celebrate the show’s lasting impact while experiencing Miami’s charm firsthand. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the infamous The Mutiny Hotel during this historic event.
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