Melvin Williams, who inspired the critically acclaimed HBO dramaThe Wire, has died at the age of 73. Creator David Simon confirmed the news on Twitter.
According to Mashable, Simon featured the former Baltimore drug kingpin as the subject of a five-part series in 1987 before creating the beloved series. The premium cable show lasted for five seasons, from 2002-2008, and is highly regarded as one of the greatest to ever grace the small screen.
Williams was released from prison in 1996 and went on to lead a life away from crime. He even guest-starred on the show as a recurring character named the Deacon.
A cause of death has not been disclosed.
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