The Wire was one of HBO’s most popular and polarizing shows in network history. Melvin Williams was the inspiration for the show and he has passed away.
Variety reported that Williams, nicknamed “Little Melvin,” has died at the age of 73.
In the 1960s, Williams was a drug kingpin and the inspiration for Wood Harris’ character on The Wire. Harris played Avalon Barksdale in the series.
Williams had a recurring role in later seasons of the show. He played Deacon, a street smart kind clergyman whose goal was to help drug dealers and young men caught up in the violence come to their senses.
Series creator David Simon tweeted his respects to Williams when he heard the news of his passing.
Williams served several years in federal prison on drug charges, but righted his wrongs upon his release. He worked with local pastors and clergymen to help young men and women get out of the life he was once a part of. His portrayal in the show was accurate to his real life story and is a reason the show was such a success.
Williams will be remembered as a man who lead a life of violence but later tried to make up for it by doing the right thing.