Don Johnson, the iconic star of "Miami Vice," reveals his struggles with poverty and emotional turmoil before achieving Hollywood stardom.
In a candid interview with the Wall Street Journal, Don Johnson, the enigmatic star of "Miami Vice," opened up about his arduous journey from living in poverty to achieving Hollywood stardom. Born in Flat Creek, Missouri, to a teenage mother and father, Johnson faced a challenging childhood marked by parental absence and abuse.
Growing up in a small house in Wichita, Kansas, Johnson's family struggled financially. Despite his father's employment at Boeing, the family lived below the national poverty level. "I got my work ethic from them," Johnson recalled, recognizing their resilience despite their struggles.
Don Johnson's Rise to Stardom: From Poverty to Hollywood Heights
At the age of 11, Johnson's parents divorced, and he initially stayed with his mother. However, his unruly behavior landed him in juvenile court, prompting a move to his father's house. "The judge thought I'd be better off with my father, so I moved in, and he taught me to hunt and fish," Johnson recalled fondly.
Johnson's salvation came unexpectedly in the form of acting. After being kicked off the football team, he had to take drama to fulfill his credits. His teacher recognized his talent and cast him as Tony in "West Side Story." "The moment I stood on stage, it was a drug," Johnson said, realizing that acting could provide the love and validation he lacked elsewhere.
Don Johnson's Rise to Stardom: From Poverty to Hollywood Heights
With a partial scholarship to the University of Kansas, Johnson began pursuing a drama major but left in his sophomore year to join the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. In 1969, he moved to Los Angeles, where he struggled to break into the entertainment industry.
For over a decade, Johnson took on forgettable roles in films and failed television pilots. His financial struggles were such that he lived below the national poverty level for fifteen years. "I was cast in a lot of forgettable roles, including five unsuccessful TV pilots," he explained.
Don Johnson's Rise to Stardom: From Poverty to Hollywood Heights
In 1983, at the age of 34, Johnson auditioned for "Miami Vice." He felt an immediate connection to the role of Detective James "Sonny" Crockett. "I couldn't believe somebody had seemingly been jotting down my thoughts, feelings, and emotions. The part was meant for me," he recalled.
Despite an initial letdown when the project was delayed, Johnson eventually landed the role and slipped effortlessly into the character. "Miami Vice" became a critical and commercial success, running for five seasons and earning Johnson an Emmy nomination.
Don Johnson's Rise to Stardom: From Poverty to Hollywood Heights
Johnson's success was surreal for the farm boy from Missouri. "I mean, I'm a farm boy from Missouri. It was a dream," he reflected. He acknowledged the impact of his struggles on his work ethic and the importance of meditation in managing the fear of losing everything.
Johnson's career continued to flourish with "Nash Bridges" and roles in films such as "Machete" and "Django Unchained." He also played Jane Fonda's romantic interest in the "Book Club" films.
Don Johnson's Rise to Stardom: From Poverty to Hollywood Heights
Today, Johnson is a contented 74-year-old, happily married to Kelley Phleger and enjoying time with his family. He has learned to appreciate both the happy and painful memories of his childhood, recognizing the significance of his early struggles in shaping his success.
