First Look: Walton Goggins in 'Miami Vice '85'
New set photos have surfaced online, offering the first glimpse of Walton Goggins in character for the upcoming crime thriller Miami Vice '85. The images, captured in Wayne, New Jersey, and shared on X, show the actor filming scenes for the highly anticipated reboot. Goggins is dressed in a retro ensemble that includes yellow-tinted sunglasses, a printed open-collar shirt, pleated pants, a leather belt, and loafers, radiating the distinct 1980s aesthetic of the original television series.
Goggins is set to play an assassin henchman associated with a cartel kingpin portrayed by John Leguizamo. While specific details about his character's arc remain under wraps, the set photos confirm his involvement in the film, which is currently in production. The movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick, F1) from a screenplay by Dan Gilroy and Eric Warren Singer, is slated for release on May 19, 2028, by Universal Pictures.
Production Details and Cast
Miami Vice '85 aims to bring the iconic 1980s television series back to the big screen with a fresh cast. Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler lead as Ricardo Tubbs and Sonny Crockett, roles originated by Philip Michael Thomas and Don Johnson. The ensemble also includes Alden Ehrenreich, Whitney Peak, Camila Morrone, Danny Ramirez, Dominic Sessa, Haley Lu Richardson, Andrew Schulz, Edi Gathegi, André Holland, and Michael Irby. Leguizamo plays the cartel boss, while Irby takes on Lieutenant Lou Rodriguez. The film is produced by Dylan Clark and Kosinski, and it seeks to recapture the style and atmosphere of the original series created by Anthony Yerkovich while introducing its iconic characters to a new generation.
Context: Goggins' Rising Star and the Reboot's Significance
Walton Goggins has been a revered character actor for decades, but recent roles in Fallout and The White Lotus have catapulted him to a new level of stardom. His casting in Miami Vice '85 adds significant buzz to the project, as fans eagerly anticipate how he will inhabit the retro crime world. Goggins first gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Shane Vendrell in FX's The Shield, a role that showcased his ability to play morally complex characters. He further cemented his status with the Western series Justified, opposite Timothy Olyphant. His diverse résumé also includes The Righteous Gemstones, where he played a deeply unserious preacher. This versatility makes him a compelling addition to the Miami Vice universe, which is known for its gritty, stylish storytelling.
The Legacy of 'Miami Vice'
The original Miami Vice series, which aired from 1984 to 1989, was a cultural phenomenon that defined the aesthetics and music of the decade. It followed undercover detectives Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Tubbs as they infiltrated drug operations and organized crime in Miami. The show was renowned for its cinematic visuals, fashion, and use of contemporary music. The new film, set in the same era, aims to honor that legacy while updating it for modern audiences. Joseph Kosinski's involvement as director suggests a focus on high-octane action and sleek visuals, akin to his work on Top Gun: Maverick. The production is currently shooting in New Jersey, standing in for Miami, which has raised some eyebrows but is not uncommon for film productions.
Goggins' Busy Schedule
Goggins is also set to return for the third season of Fallout, likely in 2027, and he stars in the animated Disney movie Hexed, releasing on November 25, 2026. His role in Miami Vice '85 adds to a packed slate, demonstrating his continued demand in Hollywood. The actor's ability to balance television and film projects while maintaining a distinctive screen presence has made him a favorite among critics and audiences alike.
Perspective: The Reboot Trend and Goggins' Career Trajectory
Miami Vice '85 is part of a broader trend of rebooting beloved 1980s properties for contemporary audiences. Studios are increasingly mining nostalgia, hoping to capitalize on familiar IP while attracting new viewers. The success of such ventures depends on balancing homage with fresh storytelling. With a director like Kosinski, who successfully revived Top Gun with Maverick, and a cast led by Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler, the film has the potential to resonate with both fans of the original and newcomers. However, it also faces the challenge of living up to the iconic status of the series, which was groundbreaking in its time.
Goggins' Evolving Career
Walton Goggins' career trajectory reflects a broader shift in the entertainment industry, where character actors can achieve leading-man status through standout performances in streaming series and prestige TV. His role in Miami Vice '85 is another step in a career that has seen him transition from supporting player to sought-after star. As audiences await the film's release in 2028, Goggins' involvement ensures that Miami Vice '85 will be watched closely by fans and industry observers alike. The set photos offer a tantalizing preview of what promises to be a stylish and action-packed addition to the Miami Vice legacy.
What This Means for the Franchise
Universal Pictures has not yet revealed further plot details, but the film's release date and cast suggest a major investment in the franchise. If successful, Miami Vice '85 could spawn sequels or spin-offs, further expanding the universe. For now, fans can enjoy the early glimpse of Goggins in character, which hints at a memorable performance. As production continues, more details are expected to emerge, building anticipation for the film's 2028 debut.
In the meantime, Goggins' other projects, such as Fallout and Hexed, will keep him in the spotlight. His ability to seamlessly move between genres and mediums underscores his talent and appeal. Whether he's playing a henchman in a retro crime thriller or a ghoul in a post-apocalyptic series, Goggins brings a unique energy that captivates audiences. Miami Vice '85 promises to be another showcase for his skills, and the set photos are just the beginning of what's to come.
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