Discovering the multifaceted life of Leonard Cohen is like exploring a rich tapestry of artistry and philosophical depth. Often hailed as Canada’s answer to Bob Dylan, Cohen’s career spanned many creative disciplines, from writing the iconic song “Hallelujah,” which has been famously covered by artists like Jeff Buckley and John Cale, to becoming a poet, novelist, law student, and even a Zen monk. But there’s another intriguing chapter to his life: his guest appearance on the iconic TV series Miami Vice — a show that defined 1980s crime drama and fashion trends thanks to its creator Michael Mann.
In the episode titled “French Twist,” Cohen steps into the role of François Zolan, a French secret service agent. While his screen time is brief, mostly spent on the phone, Cohen effortlessly emanates an air of menace, all while draped in quintessential 1980s fashion, making it an unforgettable cameo.
Miami Vice was renowned for featuring musical legends, with appearances by Little Richard, Frank Zappa, Miles Davis, Willie Nelson, and Eartha Kitt. However, Cohen’s performance was unique as he delivered his lines in French, adding another layer to his enigmatic personality.
Below, you can watch a montage showcasing 20 rock stars who graced Miami Vice screens during the show’s tenure.
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Related Content:
- When Frank Zappa & Miles Davis Played a Drug Dealer and a Pimp on Miami Vice
- The Poetry of Leonard Cohen Illustrated by Two Short Films
- How Leonard Cohen & David Bowie Confronted Mortality Through Their Art: A Glimpse at Their Final Albums
- Young Leonard Cohen Reads His Poetry in 1966 (Before His Musical Career Took Off)
Jonathan Crow is a writer and filmmaker whose work has appeared in Yahoo!, The Hollywood Reporter, and other notable publications. Follow him at @jonccrow.
