On The Wire, Grammy-winning rock and country singer-songwriter Steve Earle plays a Narcotics Anonymous sponsor Walon who strives to overcome his own difficult past as a drug addict in order to help others. In life, Earle, a former drug addict, can likely relate to his character. In the mid-nineties, Earle spent time in jail on drug charges, and upon his release decided to turn his life around, focusing entirely on his music. Earle, whose powerful lyrics and controversial political views have won him numerous fans, has written and directed a play about the death penalty, and published several books.