The iconic actor Don Johnson, known for his role in “Miami Vice,” was notorious for his wild lifestyle. Now at 73, he celebrates a more serene life with his wife of 23 years, Kelley Phleger, whom he credits with completely transforming his outlook.

Before meeting Kelley, Johnson struggled with a turbulent life filled with drinking, partying, and excessive spending on luxury items, none of which brought him fulfillment. Meeting his third wife marked a turning point, bringing him lasting happiness.

Johnson first encountered Kelley, then a Montessori professor, at a birthday party for San Francisco’s mayor. Determined to introduce himself, Johnson made a lasting impression, and their relationship blossomed from there. Despite his fame and wealth from “Miami Vice,” Johnson admits he was deeply unhappy until finding true contentment with Kelley.

Johnson, now 73, maintains a busy schedule with roles in projects like HBO’s “Watchmen” and the recent film “Knives Out.” Despite his age, he shows no signs of slowing down and attributes his sustained career to giving up his vices.

Johnson’s early life was marked by darker times, enduring physical and verbal abuse from his father and growing up in financial instability. His parents’ divorce when he was 12 left him responsible for his younger siblings.

His new wife became his catalyst for leaving behind his troubled past, and together they raised three children.

At just 16, Johnson left his fractured family behind, a challenging decision that forced him to support himself through high school. This early independence shaped his character profoundly.

Despite achieving fame and wealth as Sonny Crockett on “Miami Vice,” Johnson found himself deeply unhappy. He married five times, including twice to the same woman, and struggled with substance abuse while fathering five children and navigating high-profile romances.

Before meeting Phleger, Johnson sought solace in drinking and luxury items, hoping they would alleviate his misery. His collection included boats, multiple cars, a plane, and a ranch, yet he felt trapped in a lifestyle detrimental to his health.

In 1999, Johnson found reason to change. Falling in love with Phleger, he committed to a healthier life, quitting smoking and drinking, selling excess possessions, and prioritizing his well-being. Reflecting on his transformation, Johnson humorously remarked:

“I had one of those rare moments of clarity and asked this woman to marry me, but I still wonder if she’s cast some spell. So please, refrain from snapping your fingers, because who knows what might happen if she wakes up.”

His new wife was the driving force behind his transformation, and together they raised three children. Johnson prioritized family time, especially with his two eldest children, to mend past rifts. He now embraces a “holier” existence focused on those he loves most. Reflecting on his tumultuous youth, he remarked:

“I’m relieved to say I made it through unscathed. Not everyone does.”

After four divorces and a risky lifestyle, Johnson finds contentment with Phleger. He’s learned that family brings him the greatest happiness and has become a dedicated and attentive parent to his five children.