Solving The Mystery: Who Almost Starred In Miami Vice?

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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Solving the Mystery: Who Almost Starred in Miami Vice?

The iconic 80s TV show Miami Vice is synonymous with pastel suits, fast cars, and a distinct neon-drenched aesthetic. But what if things had turned out differently? The casting process for the show was surprisingly tumultuous, with several A-list actors almost landing the roles of Crockett and Tubbs. Let's dive into the intriguing stories of who almost became Miami's finest.

The Near Misses of Crockett and Tubbs

The roles of Detective James "Sonny" Crockett and Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs were pivotal, shaping the show's success. But before Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas secured these parts, several other actors were seriously considered. The casting choices weren't simply about talent; they also involved chemistry, image, and the overall vision the producers had for the show.

Almost Crockett: The Contenders

1. Tom Selleck: Perhaps the most famous "what if?" in Miami Vice history is the near-casting of Tom Selleck as Crockett. Selleck, already a star thanks to Magnum, P.I., was reportedly the first choice. However, he was contractually obligated to Magnum, and NBC wouldn't release him. This almost single-handedly changed the face of 80s television! Imagine Selleck in those pastel suits...

2. John Travolta: The grease-lightning himself was also in the running. Travolta's charisma and box office power made him a strong contender. While the reasons for him not taking the role remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, it's speculated that scheduling conflicts or creative differences played a part.

3. Other Notable Mentions: Beyond Selleck and Travolta, other actors were considered, though less prominently featured in casting discussions. The names remain somewhat obscure, lost to the mists of time, highlighting the highly competitive nature of landing a role in a potentially groundbreaking show like Miami Vice.

Almost Tubbs: The Unsung Heroes

While Crockett's almost-casts are widely known, Rico Tubbs's near-misses are less documented. The role demanded a specific blend of intensity and charisma. While Philip Michael Thomas ultimately embodied Tubbs perfectly, finding the right actor was clearly a significant challenge for the producers. The research into who was considered for the part remains incomplete, highlighting the often-unseen struggles in casting iconic television shows.

The Impact of Casting Decisions

The eventual casting of Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas proved to be a stroke of genius. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and they became the perfect embodiment of the show's style and tone. The success of Miami Vice was a confluence of many factors, but the actors' performances and their undeniable charisma played a crucial role.

Had Selleck or Travolta landed the roles, the show's trajectory might have been drastically altered. It's a compelling thought experiment: Would the show have retained its unique appeal? Would it have achieved the same level of cultural impact? These questions remain unanswered, making the almost-castings of Miami Vice a fascinating piece of television history.

The Legacy of "Almost Was"

The stories of who almost starred in Miami Vice are more than just trivia. They offer a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry and the crucial role of casting in shaping iconic shows. The almost-casts serve as a reminder that success is often a combination of talent, timing, and a little bit of luck. They also highlight the enduring legacy of Miami Vice, a show that continues to capture imaginations decades after its initial run. The show's cultural impact is undeniable, and the question of "what if?" will continue to fascinate fans for years to come.