Why Don Johnson Passed on the Role That Launched Kevin Costner’s Career

In the world of Hollywood, few decisions can alter the course of a career as dramatically as the choice to accept—or decline—a pivotal role.

One such decision occurred in 1987, when Don Johnson, the reigning star of Miami Vice, passed on the opportunity to play Eliot Ness in The Untouchables.

This role ultimately catapulted Kevin Costner into the spotlight, transforming him from a promising talent into a household name.

But what led Johnson to turn down a part that seemed tailor-made for him?

In a fascinating twist of fate, this decision not only changed the trajectory of Costner’s career but also shaped the landscape of Hollywood in the years to come.

Let’s delve into the details of this intriguing story, exploring the motivations behind Johnson’s choice and the impact it had on both actors’ careers.

The Rise of Don Johnson

In the mid-1980s, Don Johnson was at the pinnacle of his fame.

As Detective Sonny Crockett on Miami Vice, he became synonymous with coolness and style.

His trademark pastel suits, designer stubble, and sockless loafers defined a generation and set trends in fashion and culture.

The show was not just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon, making Johnson one of the most recognizable faces on television.

With Miami Vice riding high in the ratings, a transition to film seemed inevitable.

As Paramount prepared to greenlight The Untouchables, a reimagining of the classic TV crime drama, Johnson’s name was at the top of director Brian De Palma’s list for the role of Eliot Ness.

On paper, it was a perfect match.

The Temptation of Eliot Ness

Eliot Ness, the Prohibition-era lawman determined to bring down Al Capone, was a character steeped in heroism and integrity.

Johnson, with his established persona as a clean-cut lawman, seemed like the obvious choice to step into Ness’s shoes.

Swapping Crockett’s vibrant pastels for a fedora and tailored suit, Johnson could have easily embodied the role.

However, he ultimately turned it down, and the reasons behind this decision are as revealing as they are intriguing.

The Decision to Decline

In a 2025 interview with Marc Maron on the WTF podcast, Johnson opened up about his thought process during that pivotal moment.

He explained, “I realized early on that I had to separate myself from this character.

I had to separate Don Johnson from Sonny Crockett—ASAP.”

For Johnson, stepping into the role of Eliot Ness felt like a continuation of the same character he had already portrayed on television.

He was determined to avoid being typecast as another “good guy with a badge.”

At the time, Johnson was actively seeking roles that were the polar opposite of Crockett, and Ness simply didn’t align with that mission.

This desire for creative freedom and diversity in his roles ultimately led him to decline the opportunity that would launch another actor’s career.

Kevin Costner’s Moment

With Johnson passing on the role, the door swung wide open for Kevin Costner.

By the time he was cast in The Untouchables, Costner was already gaining traction in Hollywood, thanks to roles in films like Fandango, Silverado, and American Flyers.

When he stepped into the role of Eliot Ness, Costner brought a quiet strength and an approachable screen presence that gave the character a softer, more human dimension.

His portrayal emphasized integrity and resolve over brute force, a style that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Working from a script by David Mamet, Costner’s performance stood in stark contrast to Robert Stack’s stoic version from the original series.

In hindsight, it’s clear that Costner was the right choice for the role.

But had Johnson accepted, Costner’s breakout moment might never have happened.

The Aftermath of the Decision

While Johnson’s choice to pass on The Untouchables may have altered the course of his career, it did not lead to immediate success on the big screen.

Despite his conscious effort to pivot toward different kinds of roles, Johnson’s film career never reached the same heights as his television fame.

Movies like Sweet Hearts Dance and Harley-Davidson and the Marlboro Man failed to make a significant impact at the box office.

Even when he shared the screen with Costner again in Tin Cup, this time as the cocky antagonist, Johnson struggled to find lasting success in films.

However, he found a second wind in recent years, carving out a niche as a character actor in critically acclaimed projects.

Films like Django Unchained, Knives Out, and Rebel Ridge showcased his versatility and talent, proving that while he may have skipped playing Eliot Ness, he was still capable of delivering compelling performances.

Kevin Costner’s Ascendancy

On the other hand, Kevin Costner’s career skyrocketed after The Untouchables.

The film served as a launching pad for a decades-long career filled with iconic roles, including Dances with Wolves, Field of Dreams, and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Costner’s portrayal of Eliot Ness not only solidified his status as a leading man but also showcased his ability to tackle complex characters with depth and nuance.

As the years went by, he became one of Hollywood’s most respected actors and filmmakers, earning accolades and awards for his contributions to cinema.

The decision made by Don Johnson to pass on the role of Eliot Ness ultimately paved the way for Costner’s success, illustrating the unpredictable nature of Hollywood.

A Reflection on Choices

Looking back, both actors have reflected on the choices they made during that pivotal moment.

For Don Johnson, the decision to decline the role of Eliot Ness was rooted in a desire to break free from typecasting and explore new creative avenues.

He has expressed no regrets about his choice, understanding that it allowed him to pursue roles that were more aligned with his artistic vision.

Meanwhile, Kevin Costner has embraced the opportunity that came his way, recognizing the serendipity of the situation.

In the grand tapestry of Hollywood, this story serves as a reminder of how a single decision can alter the trajectory of multiple careers.

The Legacy of Their Choices

As we reflect on the careers of Don Johnson and Kevin Costner, it becomes clear that both actors have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Johnson’s decision to pass on The Untouchables may have initially seemed like a missed opportunity, but it ultimately allowed him to carve out a unique path as a character actor.

Costner, on the other hand, seized the moment and transformed it into a career that has spanned decades.

Both actors have navigated the complexities of Hollywood with resilience and determination, proving that success can take many forms.

In the end, the story of Don Johnson and Kevin Costner serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry.

It highlights the importance of making choices that align with one’s artistic vision and the potential for those choices to shape the future in unforeseen ways.

As we continue to celebrate their contributions to film and television, we are reminded that every decision counts—both on and off the screen.

In a world where the spotlight can shift in an instant, the legacies of these two talented actors will endure, each reflecting the complexities of their unique journeys in Hollywood.