Don Johnson"s rise from poverty to fame in Miami Vice

Don Johnson's early life was marked by poverty and emotional challenges. Born to a failed farmer in Missouri, his family relocated to Wichita, Kansas, where his father found work at Boeing. Johnson's parents divorced when he was 11, leading to a tumultuous childhood. He struggled to find stability, often getting into trouble and being kicked out of homes. In 1969, he moved to Los Angeles, where he faced a long battle to establish himself in Hollywood, living below the national poverty level for 15 years. Despite his struggles, Johnson landed roles in films like 'The Harrad Experiment,' where he met notable figures such as Tippi Hedren and Melanie Griffith. However, it wasn't until he starred in 'Miami Vice' that he achieved significant recognition. The show, which aired for five seasons on NBC, transformed his career and earned him an Emmy nomination in 1985. Johnson described this sudden success as a dream come true, reflecting on the years of hard work and perseverance that preceded it. Throughout his journey, Johnson credited his work ethic to his parents, who instilled in him the importance of resilience. He acknowledged that his emotional and psychological challenges fueled his creativity, ultimately shaping his career in acting. Johnson's experiences highlight the often-overlooked struggles behind the facade of fame and success. As he looks back on his life, Johnson expresses gratitude for his journey and the lessons learned along the way. He remains connected to his roots, mentioning his family house in Flat Creek and his anticipation of visiting it again soon.