The 40th Anniversary Reunion of Miami Vice brought together cast, crew, and fans for a once-in-a-lifetime event that seemed impossible. This gathering celebrated the legacy of the show that transformed Miami into a cultural icon during the 1980s. It’s been just a few weeks since the curtain fell on a spectacular masterpiece and I must confess, its echoes will never fade. A whirlwind of nostalgia and excitement spun through the city, with so much happening that time seemed to dance around us. I had the honor of curating and guiding six tours across three unforgettable days as part of the "Miami Vice Filming Locations Walking Tour," where hundreds passionate fans retraced the footsteps of legends.
Together, we stood at the crossroads of memory and reality, watching video clips and photos from the show, and with every frame, we were swept back in time. Thanks to the relentless efforts of preservationists at MDPL, the heartbeat of these iconic spots remains strong, allowing the essence of Miami Vice to flourish just as vividly as it did decades ago. The spirit of the show lingers in the very streets, where past and present continue to entwine.
Young actor Derek Hedlund, who was just a one year old kid when Miami Vice ended in 1989, orchestrated a revival of its magic. Few know that, if not for last year’s actors' strike, this reunion would never have seen the light of day. With no work or income, Derek poured his own resources, time, and passion into making this dream event a reality. For over a year, he worked tirelessly, ensuring every detail was in place. The result? Hundreds of fans descended upon Ocean Drive from across the globe as far as Australia, their passes shimmering like the sunlit waves covering the streets of Miami Beach, creating an extraordinary tribute to the show that immortalized Miami in the '80s.
In preparation for the event, I finally had the perfect reason to bring to life a tour I’d long dreamed of creating. After four years as an Art Deco and history tour guide in Miami Beach, this particular idea had always simmered on the back burner. The reception from fans worldwide was nothing short of incredible. It's an experience I will cherish forever, and I can only hope we’ll reunite once again next year.
At the wrap party, after an unforgettable weekend, we gathered to watch an exclusive documentary that featured the very people who shaped Miami Vice into the iconic success it became. This rare gem can’t be found anywhere else—another reason to come back next year for more. The VICEseum (Vice museum), which was built by Derek, Mr. Neon, Original Crew Members, and die hard super-fans including myself, remains open to public FROM 11AM TO 6PM DAILY at The Wilzig Museum Building at 1201 Washington Ave, Miami Beach. It's absolutely spectacular! Check it out, and let's try to make it permanent with the help from the city.
Efforts are underway to repeat this incredible celebration next year. It's a fan built celebration of something special, these events hardly ever make profit, but next year it could again be a community-built masterpiece with your donations. https://www.gofundme.com/f/miamivicereunion41
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