Don Johnson

Don Johnson was born on December 15, 1949, in Flat Creek, Missouri, USA. He grew up in Wichita, Kansas, and showed an early interest in acting. Johnson later attended the University of Kansas as well as the American Conservatory Theater, which helped him develop his skills that would lead to his successful career in film and television.

On September 28, 1984, the television series 'Miami Vice' premiered on NBC, featuring Don Johnson in the iconic role of Detective Sonny Crockett. The show became a cultural phenomenon, renowned for its pastel suits, modern music, and visual style. Johnson's portrayal of Crockett, a sophisticated undercover detective, brought him fame and solidified his status as a leading television star.

Don Johnson won his first Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his role as Sonny Crockett in 'Miami Vice' in 1985. This accolade was given in recognition of his outstanding performance and contributed to the show's critical and commercial success. Johnson's work on the series was a standout, making him one of the most recognized actors in television.

Don Johnson released his debut album 'Heartbeat' on September 10, 1986. The album showcased his musical talents, with the title track 'Heartbeat' becoming a hit. It reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, reflecting Johnson's popularity beyond acting. The album featured a mix of rock and pop songs, bringing attention to Johnson's versatility and star power in the entertainment industry.

On September 23, 1989, Don Johnson married actress Melanie Griffith for the second time. The couple had previously been married from 1976 to 1976 before divorcing and then rekindling their relationship in the late 1980s. Their high-profile relationship was often in media spotlight. Together, they have one daughter, Dakota Johnson, who would go on to become a successful actress.

The TV series 'Nash Bridges' premiered on March 15, 1996, on CBS, featuring Don Johnson as the titular character. Johnson played Nash Bridges, an inspector in the San Francisco Police Department. The show ran for six seasons, garnering a strong fan base and showcasing Johnson's ability to lead a successful series beyond his 'Miami Vice' fame. Johnson was also an executive producer on the show.

Don Johnson won a significant legal battle against Rysher Entertainment in 2010. The court awarded him $23.2 million in profits from the TV show 'Nash Bridges.' Johnson had filed the lawsuit in 2009, claiming he was owed a substantial portion of the profits. The case highlighted issues related to profit-sharing arrangements in television contracts and set a precedent for other disputes in Hollywood.

Don Johnson starred as Spencer 'Big Daddy' Bennett in Quentin Tarantino's film 'Django Unchained,' which was released on December 25, 2012. The film, set in the antebellum era of the American South, received critical acclaim and was a box office success. Johnson's performance as the charismatic plantation owner was noted for its depth and nuance, contributing to the film's dynamic storytelling.

Don Johnson returned to television in a significant role in the HBO series 'Watchmen,' which premiered on September 23, 2019. Johnson played the character of Judd Crawford, the Chief of the Tulsa Police Department. His performance was praised, adding a captivating element to the series that addressed complex themes in a superhero context. Johnson's involvement signaled his enduring appeal on screen.

'Knives Out,' a murder mystery film directed by Rian Johnson, was released on November 27, 2019. Don Johnson played the role of Richard Drysdale, part of the ensemble cast alongside Daniel Craig and Chris Evans. The film was a critical and commercial success, known for its clever plot and star-studded performances. Johnson's role as the arrogant son-in-law added a layer of complexity to the story.