The Wire

Watch The Wire

  • TV-MA
  • 2002
  • 5 Seasons
  • 9.3  (351,173)

The Wire is a critically acclaimed crime drama series from HBO that delves into the inner workings of the drug trade, politics, and crime in Baltimore, Maryland. Set over the course of five seasons, the show follows a vast ensemble cast of characters, including police officers, drug dealers, politicians, journalists, and everyday citizens, as they navigate the complex social and economic forces that shape their lives. At the center of the show is Detective Jimmy McNulty, played by Dominic West, a troubled but dedicated cop who becomes obsessed with bringing down drug lord Avon Barksdale, played by Wood Harris. McNulty's efforts bring him into conflict with the city's corrupt political machine, including the manipulative Mayor Clarence Royce, played by Glynn Turman, and police Major Bunny Colvin, played by Robert Wisdom, who devises a controversial "Hamsterdam" policy to contain drug activity in one area of the city. Other standout characters include Lieutenant Cedric Daniels, played by Lance Reddick, who struggles to balance his loyalty to the department with his desire for justice; Bubbles, played by Andre Royo, a drug addict and informant who provides an unvarnished view of life on the streets; and Kima Greggs, played by Sonja Sohn, a tough and compassionate detective who grapples with the toll of police work on her personal life. Throughout the show's run, creator and showrunner David Simon explores themes of institutional decay, political corruption, and the devastating effects of poverty and inequality on Baltimore's residents. The Wire deftly weaves together multiple storylines and perspectives, presenting a nuanced and often bleak portrait of a city in crisis. Despite low ratings during its initial run, The Wire has since become a cult classic and widely considered one of the greatest television shows ever made. The show's gritty realism, complex characters, and unflinching critique of contemporary society have cemented its place as a landmark of the medium. If you're looking to dive into the world of The Wire, you can watch The Wire online through various streaming services, including HBO Max and Amazon Prime. With its compelling storytelling and exceptional performances, this show is not to be missed. Watch The Wire Online and immerse yourself in one of the most powerful dramas ever created.

The Wire
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Seasons
-30-
10. -30-
March 9, 2008
A damaging report by Pearlman and Daniels gets a reaction from Carcetti, while Haynes finds little support for his concerns about a reporters work from the bosses. Meanwhile, McNulty wants to put a homeless case to an end, Dukie searches for an old mentor and a fallen officer is given a wake.
Late Editions
9. Late Editions
March 2, 2008
A promising lead makes Freamon's hard work worthwhile, although McNulty doesn't feel like a celebration.
Clarifications
8. Clarifications
February 24, 2008
A shift in the police department sends Carver to a new location. Meanwhile, Carcetti is forced to put his political future in jeopardy, Haynes digs deeper into Templeton's work, and an important case has a breakthrough by Sydnor, while Fletcher continues working with Bubbles.
Took
7. Took
February 17, 2008
After cooking up another scheme for the homeless case, McNulty and Lester become popular figures. Davis is set for his day in court by collecting the best legal assistance money can buy. Plus, Michael has brushes with the wrong side of the law, while Gus seeks help for an old story by going outside the Sun.
The Dickensian Aspect
6. The Dickensian Aspect
February 10, 2008
Marlo's crew goes on full alert after Omar's mysterious disappearance. Meanwhile, Carcetti concentrates on the plight of the homeless, while Bunk has an interview with a witness connected with the row-house case, and Templeton looks to a follow up to his recent front page story.
React Quotes
5. React Quotes
February 3, 2008
While the crew awaits a showdown with Omar, Marlo celebrates a business deal. Meanwhile, at the Sun, McNulty and Freamon take advantage of a development regarding the murder of the homeless people, while Dukie heads to Cutty's gym. Also, Herc does Carver a favor as a means to make amends for his past behavior, while Davis takes his case to the court of public opinion.
Transitions
4. Transitions
January 27, 2008
Omar plots his revenge for his former associates murder now that he's returned from exile. Gus stresses the need for a city-court reporter, after missing out on a grand jury probe. Carcetti finds there are strings attached in his desire to get rid of Burrell. While McNulty investigates the deaths of homeless men, Freamon needs the help of an old friend. Also, Marlo looks to the future in his dealings with the Greeks.
Not For Attribution
3. Not For Attribution
January 20, 2008
Mayor Carcetti's police department plan is leaked. Marlo turns to Proposition Joe for help. Meanwhile, McNulty strikes up an unexpected ally -- Freamon.
Unconfirmed Reports
2. Unconfirmed Reports
January 13, 2008
Freamon keeps a look out for Marlo, who is putting together a deal with Avon Barksdale. Davis goes to Burrell for help, but finds that the commissioner's hands are tied. Whiting puts together a series on broad strokes.
More With Less
1. More With Less
January 6, 2008
McNulty and the detail continue to stake out Marlo and his crew. Recently promoted Sergeant Carver is met with complaints concerning unpaid overtime. Meanwhile, Haynes deals with cutbacks, but is still able to expose a politician's connection to a drug dealer; and Joe, Marlo, Fatface Rick meet to divide up the drug trade across Baltimore.
Description

The Wire is a critically acclaimed crime drama series from HBO that delves into the inner workings of the drug trade, politics, and crime in Baltimore, Maryland. Set over the course of five seasons, the show follows a vast ensemble cast of characters, including police officers, drug dealers, politicians, journalists, and everyday citizens, as they navigate the complex social and economic forces that shape their lives.

At the center of the show is Detective Jimmy McNulty, played by Dominic West, a troubled but dedicated cop who becomes obsessed with bringing down drug lord Avon Barksdale, played by Wood Harris. McNulty's efforts bring him into conflict with the city's corrupt political machine, including the manipulative Mayor Clarence Royce, played by Glynn Turman, and police Major Bunny Colvin, played by Robert Wisdom, who devises a controversial "Hamsterdam" policy to contain drug activity in one area of the city.

Other standout characters include Lieutenant Cedric Daniels, played by Lance Reddick, who struggles to balance his loyalty to the department with his desire for justice; Bubbles, played by Andre Royo, a drug addict and informant who provides an unvarnished view of life on the streets; and Kima Greggs, played by Sonja Sohn, a tough and compassionate detective who grapples with the toll of police work on her personal life.

Throughout the show's run, creator and showrunner David Simon explores themes of institutional decay, political corruption, and the devastating effects of poverty and inequality on Baltimore's residents. The Wire deftly weaves together multiple storylines and perspectives, presenting a nuanced and often bleak portrait of a city in crisis.

Despite low ratings during its initial run, The Wire has since become a cult classic and widely considered one of the greatest television shows ever made. The show's gritty realism, complex characters, and unflinching critique of contemporary society have cemented its place as a landmark of the medium.

If you're looking to dive into the world of The Wire, you can watch The Wire online through various streaming services, including HBO Max and Amazon Prime. With its compelling storytelling and exceptional performances, this show is not to be missed. Watch The Wire Online and immerse yourself in one of the most powerful dramas ever created.

The Wire is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (60 episodes). The series first aired on June 2, 2002.

Where to Watch The Wire

The Wire is available for streaming on the HBO website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Wire on demand at Google Play, Apple TV and HBO Max.

  • Premiere Date
    June 2, 2002
  • IMDB Rating
    9.3  (351,173)