Tonight, the BBC airs Hunting Mr Nice: The Cannabis Kingpin, a two-part documentary chronicling the gripping pursuit of Howard Marks, Britain’s most notorious drug smuggler. Known by the codename “Mr Nice,” Marks was a Welsh criminal who smuggled massive quantities of cannabis into the UK during the 1980s, gaining notoriety and a cult-like following in the process.
The Rise and Fall of Howard Marks
Howard Marks wasn’t your average drug smuggler. A charismatic figure, he became a well-known name in the press even as he transported millions of pounds’ worth of cannabis. Despite his seemingly untouchable status, Marks was finally arrested in 1988 and spent seven years in one of America’s toughest prisons.
The documentary delves deep into Marks’ inner circle and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to catch him. This includes Roger Reaves, a former Medellin Cartel pilot who later worked with Marks, and DEA agent Craig Lovato, whose use of coded Cockney Rhyming Slang made Marks’ operations difficult to detect for years.
Even after his arrest, Marks’ story didn’t end. Upon release, he penned an autobiography, Mr Nice, which transformed his public image and launched a second career as an author and public speaker. However, his claim that drug smuggling was a “victimless crime” was challenged by his ex-wife Judy, who revealed the devastating toll his actions took on their family.
Hunting Mr Nice masterfully combines personal interviews, rare footage, and expert insights to piece together Marks’ fascinating yet controversial life. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, this documentary promises an enthralling exploration of one man’s double life as a charming rebel and a prolific criminal.
Catch both episodes of Hunting Mr Nice: The Cannabis Kingpin now streaming on BBC iPlayer.
