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HBO’sThe Wireis widely celebrated as one of the best TV shows ever made. Spanning five seasons, the show, created by David Simon, offered a deep dive into Baltimore’s complexities. It explored themes like the drug trade, labor unions, political corruption, public schools, and the media, all while showing the intertwined systems within the city.
WhenThe Wirepremiered on June 24, 2025, critics praised it, but it didn’t immediately gain a large audience. Over time, however, the show found its footing, eventually becoming a beloved favorite and even launching the careers of several prominent actors.
At the start of the series, the cast featured well-known names like Dominic West, Sonja Sohn, and Lance Reddick. As the show progressed, it introduced rising talents who would later become Hollywood stars. Michael B. Jordan, Idris Elba, and Tristan Wilds are now recognized as some of the many actors whose careers gained momentum thanks to their roles in the gritty, sometimes darkly humorous, drama.
Focusing on the lives of police officers, criminals, and other groups impacted by Baltimore’s crime scene,The Wirewrapped up in 2008 after five seasons. Here’s a look at what its cast members have been up to since their time on this groundbreaking series and what they are up to in 2024.
1Dominic West (Jimmy McNulty)
Dominic West, known for his role as detective Jimmy McNulty onThe Wire, left a lasting impression with his convincing Baltimore accent. Surprisingly, the actor is actually from the U.K., showcasing his exceptional talent for dialect work.
Before playing McNulty, West appeared in smaller roles in movies likeSpice World(1997) andStar Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace(1999). During his time onThe Wire, he also made his mark in films such asChicago(2002) and300(2006).
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After the show ended, West’s career continued to flourish on both the small and big screens. He earned Golden Globe nominations for his performances inThe Houron BBC and Showtime’sThe Affair, where he played the complex character Noah Solloway. His film work includesThe Square(2017),Tomb Raider(2018) as Lara Croft’s father,Colette(2018), andDowntown Abbey: A New Era(2022).
In 2022, West joined Netflix’sThe Crownas Prince Charles in its fifth season, embracing a role closer to his British roots. In 2024 it has been made official that West is joining the cast ofThe Agency. Outside of acting, he has been married to Catherine Fitzgerald since 2010, and they share four children.
2Idris Elba (Russell “Stringer” Bell)
Idris Elbaamazed fans with his convincing portrayal of Stringer Bell, a criminal mastermind inThe Wire. What many didn’t know at the time was that Elba is actually from the U.K., not Baltimore. His dedication to perfecting the accent helped him land the role, even though the show’s creator, David Simon, initially wanted only American actors to capture the authenticity of Baltimore life.
BeforeThe Wire, Elba spent nearly a decade working in British television, but playing Stringer Bell in the first three seasons marked his big breakthrough. His character, a drug lord with ambitions to go legitimate, showcased his range and talent, paving the way for a flourishing career.
After the series, Elba gained widespread fame with standout roles inLutherandThe Officeand as Heimdall in Marvel’s Thor movies. His filmography includes hits likeAmerican Gangster(2007),Prometheus(2012),Beasts of No Nation(2015), andMolly’s Game(2018). He also ventured into directing with his debut film,Yardie(2018).
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Elba remains a versatile star, taking on roles in movies likeThe Suicide Squad(2021) andThree Thousand Years of Longing(2022). Beyond acting, he’s also a DJ and married model Sabrina Dhowre in 2019. In 2024, according toThe Hollywood Reporter, Idris Elba will star in and produceHammer Down, an action movie directed by Simon Hatt, known for his work as a producer on Marvel and DC projects.
3Lance Reddick (Cedric Daniels)
Lance Reddick, known for his commanding role as Cedric Daniels inThe Wire, passed away on June 23, 2025, leaving fans and colleagues in shock. The actor’s death, attributed to natural causes, was confirmed by his family. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Reddick, and their children, Yvonne Nicole and Christopher.
Reddick brought a quiet strength to the role of Daniels, the disciplined and dedicated police lieutenant. His performance made him a standout on the show, earning him widespread admiration. Following his time onThe Wire, he quickly transitioned to other prominent projects.
He had a memorable five-season run onFringeand appeared in popular shows likeLostandBosch. Reddick also made his mark in movies, particularly as Charon, the loyal concierge in theJohn Wickseries. His talent extended to diverse roles, including appearances inCorporate,Resident Evil, and theWhite Men Can’t Jumpreboot.
4Michael B. Jordan (Wallace)
BeforeMichael B. Jordanbecame a household name and 2020’s PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive, he captured hearts as Wallace inThe Wire. Wallace, a kind-hearted teenager caught in the harsh realities of Baltimore’s drug world, left a lasting impact on fans despite his tragic fate.
After his character’s emotional exit from the show, Jordan’s career skyrocketed. He first gained attention for his role as Oscar Grant in the critically acclaimedFruitvale Station(2013), a heartbreaking true story. He then cemented his place in Hollywood with standout performances as Erik Killmonger inBlack Pantherand Adonis Creed in theCreedfranchise.
Before his big break, Jordan appeared in smaller roles, including a part in the 2001 filmHardballand a stint onAll My Children. He gained recognition withFriday Night Lightsand later starred inParenthoodand the hit thrillerChronicle(2012).
In 2023, Jordan added director to his list of achievements, debuting withCreed III, where he also reprised his role as Adonis. His other notable works includeFantastic Four(2015),HBO’s Fahrenheit 451, andA Journal for Jordan(2021). Today, Michael B. Jordan is a versatile actor and filmmaker dominating both screens and headlines.
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Jordan also has a number of upcoming movies. He will feature in the vampire film directed by Ryan Coogler. The project is scheduled for release in 2025 and has yet to be given a title. Additionally, he will be included in theThomas Crown Affairremake.
5Wood Harris (Avon Barksdale)
Wood Harris became a standout figure inThe Wireas Avon Barksdale. He was the cunning and ruthless leader of the Barksdale Organization. By the time he joined the iconic series, Harris was already an experienced actor with notable performances in films likeAbove the Rim(1994),Paid in Full(2002), andRemember the Titans(2000), where he played the unforgettable Julius Campbell.
AfterThe Wire, Harris continued to make waves in the industry. He appeared as Brooke Payne in BET’s well-received seriesThe New Edition Story. He also joined theCreedfranchise, portraying Tony “Little Duke” Evers, Michael B. Jordan’s trainer, and was featured in HBO’sWinning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, where he brought basketball legend Spencer Haywood to life.
Harris’s other post-Wirecredits include guest appearances onJustified, alongside his brother Steve Harris, and a role in the Marvel hitAnt-Man(2015). He collaborated withThe Wirealum Tristan Wilds in VH1’sThe Breaksand had small but memorable roles inBlade Runner 2049(2017) andEmpireas Damon Cross.
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Today, Harris is celebrated for his diverse roles across film and television. In 2024, Wood Harris also made an appearance in the miniseriesThe Lady in the Lake, which starred Moses Ingram and Natalie Portman.
6Sonja Sohn (Shakima “Kima” Greggs)
Sonja Sohn brought strength and determination to her role as Detective Kima Greggs inThe Wire. As one of the standout characters, Kima was known for her fearless attitude, sharp instincts, and dedication to justice.
Before landing the role, Sohn had already made her mark by writing and starring in the indie filmSlam(1998). AfterThe Wire, she continued to build an impressive career with regular and recurring roles in popular TV shows. She appeared inBody of Proof,Brothers & Sisters,Burn Notice, andThe Originals.
In recent years, Sohn has been part of acclaimed series likeThe ChiandStar Trek: Discovery. Currently, she stars in ABC’s police procedural,Will Trent.
7Michael K. Williams (Omar Little)
Michael K. Williams brought unforgettable energy to the role of Omar Little inThe Wire. Known for his signature whistle and a strict moral code, Omar was a stick-up man who targeted Baltimore’s drug dealers, making him both feared and respected. While his toughness was undeniable, Omar’s vulnerability as a gay man in a violent world added depth to his character, making him a fan favorite.Even President Obama once named Omar his favorite character from the series.
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BeforeThe Wire, Williams was relatively unknown, but the role launched him into stardom. After the series, he appeared in critically acclaimed films like12 Years a Slave, theRoboCopremake, andGhostbusters(2016). On TV, he shone as Chalky White in HBO’sBoardwalk Empireand later took on powerful roles inThe Night OfandLovecraft Country. Tragically, Williams passed away at 54 in September 2021 from an accidental overdose.
8Andre Royo (Reginald “Bubbles” Cousins)
Andre Royo gained widespread recognition for his role as Reginald “Bubbles” Cousins, a kind-hearted yet troubled character battling addiction inThe Wire. Before this breakthrough, he had only small roles in shows likeThird WatchandLaw & Order.
AfterThe Wire, Royo continued building an impressive career. He appeared in the George Lucas-produced filmRed Tails(2012) and joined the cast of popular TV series likeFringe. His talent shone in later roles on shows such asHand of God,Empire, andTruth Be Told. Royo’s portrayal of Bubbles remains one of the most memorable characters from the series.
9Wendell Pierce (William “Bunk” Moreland)
Wendell Pierce, known for playing Detective Bunk Moreland inThe Wire, brought charm and humor to the role of McNulty’s loyal partner and party-loving friend. A seasoned actor even before hisWiredays, Pierce quickly reunited with creator David Simon for the New Orleans-based seriesTreme.
His career stayed strong with appearances inSuits(as Meghan Markle’s father),Chicago P.D.,The Odd Couple, and Amazon’sJack Ryan. Pierce also shone on stage, winning a Tony in 2012 as a producer ofClybourne Park. His portrayal of Willy Loman inDeath of a Salesmanearned acclaim both in London and on Broadway.
10Deirdre Lovejoy (Rhonda Pearlman)
Deirdre Lovejoy made her name as Assistant State’s Attorney Rhonda Pearlman inThe Wire. Navigating the tricky balance between her professional duties and personal connections she brought her character to life. This was one of her first major roles, though she had earlier appeared in smaller TV and film parts. Lovejoy was one of the few cast members to stay with the show from start to finish.
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Her career flourished afterward with roles in popular crime dramas likeWithout a Trace,Law & Order: Criminal Intent, andCriminal Minds. She also played Senator Cynthia Panabaker onThe Blacklistand appeared in Steven Spielberg’sThe Post(2017).
11Jamie Hector (Marlo Stanfield)
He became a series regular onBoschfrom 2014 to 2021, joining fellowWirealum Lance Reddick. On the big screen, Hector appeared in the Tupac Shakur biopicAll Eyez on Meas the rapper’s stepfather. He also reunited withThe Wirecreator David Simon for the HBO seriesWe Own This City.
12Amy Ryan (Beatrice “Beadie” Russell)
Amy Ryan’s versatility shines through her career. OnThe Wire, she played Beadie Russell, a Port Authority officer and McNulty’s love interest, bringing seriousness to the role. Before that, she was known for her work on the sitcomThe Naked Truth. During her time onThe Wire, she earned an Academy Award nomination in 2007 for her role inGone Baby Gone.
Ryan’s film career flourished with standout roles inChangeling,Birdman,Bridge of Spies, andCentral Intelligence. Her comedic side emerged as Holly Flax, Michael Scott’s love interest onThe Office.
Recently, she appeared inOnly Murders in the Building, earning a Screen Actors Guild nomination, and in the 2023 filmBeau Is Afraid. Ryan is married to writer Eric Slovin, and they have one daughter. Amy Ryan also appeared in the drama TV seriesSugarin 2024.
13Seth Gilliam (Ellis Carver)
Seth Gilliam brought depth to Lieutenant Ellis Carver onThe Wire, portraying a cop with good intentions but often flawed execution. Before this role, Gilliam had appeared in films likeCourage Under FireandStarship Troopers, as well as the seriesOz. AfterThe Wire, he gained wider recognition as Father Gabriel Stokes onThe Walking Dead, where he explored another complex character. He also had a recurring role on MTV’sTeen Wolf.
Beyond TV and film, Gilliam has worked on several Shakespeare productions with his wife, director Leah C. Gardiner, to whom he has been married for nearly two decades. His career reflects his versatility across genres and mediums, making him a consistently sought-after actor.
14Aidan Gillen (Tommy Carcetti)
Aidan Gillen gained recognition in the UK with his role inQueer as Folkbefore taking on the ambitious Tommy Carcetti inThe Wire, rising from city councilman to mayor and eventually governor. After the show, he became a fan favorite as the scheming Littlefinger on HBO’sGame of Thrones.
Gillen also appeared in several notable films, including the last two installments of theMaze Runnerseries, Guy Ritchie’sKing Arthur: Legend of the Sword, the Queen biopicBohemian Rhapsody, andThose Who Wish Me Dead.
On television, he took on leading roles inProject Blue Book,Kin, andMayor of Kingstown. Gillen’s versatility has cemented his place as a standout performer across both TV and film.
15Chris Bauer (Frank Sobotka)
Chris Bauer brought depth to the role of Frank Sobotka in season two ofThe Wire, portraying a union leader who turns to illegal activities to save Baltimore’s struggling docks. Before this, Bauer had already built an impressive resume with roles in TV shows likeThird Watchand films such asThe Devil’s AdvocateandFace/Off.
AfterThe Wire, he returned to HBO for a successful seven-season run onTrue Blood. Bauer continued to shine with roles inThe People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Storyas a detective and later reunited withThe Wirecreator David Simon for the seriesThe Deuce.
The Wireis available for streaming on Max.
Sohini Mukherjee
Content Writer
Articles Published :331
Sohini Mukherjee is an Evergreen writer at FandomWire, specializing in pop culture, all things sitcoms, and, of course, Harry Potter. She has a soft spot for shows like Modern Family and pretty much any movie that knows how to tell a good story. You’ll find her name on listicles and long form articles that feel more like fun conversations than stiff articles. Having published over 300 articles, Sohini always brings a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the stories she covers.
