The Wire is an American crime drama television series set and produced in Baltimore, Maryland. Created and primarily written by author and former police reporter David Simon, the series was broadcast by the cable network HBO in the United States. The Wire premiered on June 2, 2002, and ended on March 9, 2008, comprising 60 episodes over five seasons. The Wire is lauded for its literary themes, its singular acute exploration of society and politics, and its realistic portrayal of urban life. The show received average ratings throughout its run but won no major television awards. It has since become to be regarded by many critics as one of the greatest television series of all time.