The Wire: Season 5

10 EPISODES | TV-MA

The places and faces change, but the game remains the same. In the fifth and final season of this explosive drama series, the show expands its focus into the media--specifically the role of newspapers in big-city bureaucracy--as it follows the fictional staff of a real newspaper.

1.More With Less

In the Season Five premiere, budget cuts hit the police hard. Meanwhile, corporate downsizing frustrates the staff of a local newspaper.

2.Unconfirmed Reports

McNulty decides to take matters into his own hands; Marlo takes care of unfinished business.

3.Not for Attribution

Carcetti's police plans are leaked to the press; Marlo cleans up his cash; McNulty shares his obsession with Freamon.

4.Transitions

The police brass changes; McNulty and Freamon look for bodies; Prop Joe pays his last respects; Marlo delivers a gift.

5.React Quotes

Marlo's new alliance gives Freamon and McNulty a fresh lead; the press turns its attention to a breaking story, to Davis' relief.

6.The Dickensian Aspect

Templeton makes headlines; Bunk follows up on old leads; McNulty takes an interest in the homeless.

7.Took

An unexpected call puts Templeton and the newspaper back in the spotlight--and gets McNulty some unwanted extra attention.

8.Clarifications

Bunk returns a McNulty favor; Carcetti is forced to make political deals; Hayes talks to Templeton about his sources.

9.Late Editions

Freamon's hard work pays off with a promising lead, though McNulty isn't in the mood to celebrate.

10.-30-

In the series finale, McNulty and Freamon face the consequences of their actions, while Carcetti tries to save face.