John Leguizamo Joins the ‘Miami Vice ’85’ Cast

John Leguizamo has joined Universal’s “Miami Vice ’85,” expanding the cast of Joseph Kosinski’s new feature-length take on the influential 1980s crime series. Industry reports identify Leguizamo as the project’s main antagonist, with one account describing the still-unconfirmed character as a cartel boss.

Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler are leading the film as detectives Ricardo Tubbs and James Crockett. The ensemble also includes Whitney Peak, Alden Ehrenreich, Camila Morrone and Danny Ramirez.

A new case in mid-1980s Miami

Rather than directly remaking an individual episode, the movie is designed as a fresh story inspired by the original television pilot. Its setting will return to the glamour, danger and corruption of mid-1980s Miami—the combination of crime drama, music and fashion that gave the series its distinctive identity.

Dan Gilroy wrote the current screenplay, while Eric Warren Singer completed an earlier draft. Kosinski, whose recent directing work includes “Top Gun: Maverick” and “F1,” is producing alongside Dylan Clark. Production is expected to begin this year, with filming planned for New York and Miami.

Leguizamo continues his Universal run

The casting extends Leguizamo’s recent relationship with Universal. He appeared in Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” has filmed a role in the studio’s upcoming “Exorcist” movie and is also involved in an untitled project from the filmmaking duo Daniels.

For “Miami Vice ’85,” his presence adds a seasoned dramatic and comic performer opposite two high-profile leads. Leguizamo’s career has moved from independent films and stage work to major studio releases, giving the film an actor who can bring both intensity and personality to its criminal side.

Universal has scheduled “Miami Vice ’85” for May 19, 2028, with the movie planned for Imax presentation. Plot specifics and Leguizamo’s character name remain under wraps, but the confirmed cast and production timetable now give the project a clearer shape as it moves toward cameras.