Don Johnson has been in the Hollywood scene for 54 years and knows what it feels like to be overlooked and sought after. For a recent issue of PEOPLE, he shared his experience being an ‘80s heartthrob, which he admits was not fun in reality.
The 74-year-old is still very much in show business as he plays Chief Sandy Burnne in the Netflix hit movie Rebel Ridge. He is also set to appear in the Doctor Odyssey series, which premieres on Hulu and ABC later this month.
Don Johnson needed security after playing Sonny Crockett
Don’s part as Detective James “Sonny” Crockett on Miami Vice between 1984 and 1990 gave his career a much-needed boost as he became a fan-favorite, especially among the ladies. He recalled being unable to go out without security due to his new-found fame and how he had to isolate to avoid crazed fans.
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Due to the success of Miami Vice and how much he stood out, Don had a hard time breaking out of the “Sonny” typecast. Having seen other actors unable to land new roles or being put in a box, he determined to prove his creative range from then on.
Forty years after Miami Vice, Don has a solid reputation in Hollywood and has no problems finding work or collaborations. He expressed gratitude for being at a comfortable point in his career where he can choose what roles to do and refuse ones that keep him away from family for too long.
With his wealth of experience, Don defined fame as a condition that can go away with time, citing his journey as an example. Unlike before, fewer ladies are swooning over him, as he is now older and a family man with five children— Jesse, Atherton, Jasper, Deacon, and popular actress Dakota Johnson.