Marion "Mayor for Life" Barry Will Have His Story Told on HBO

Those who have read any of my books know that political corruption is a theme that is recurring through all of my work.  I am frustrated with the abuse of power that is so prevalent in our country and the fact that these actions often come with little or no consequences for the perpetrator.  I recently read an article about a famous politician with a background so controversial that he would make a great character for my next book if he wasn't already an actual person.

D.C. Council Member and former Mayor Marion Barry is preparing for reelection in Ward 8 of his city, where he remains immensely popular despite his temporary fall from power back in 1990 when he was videotaped smoking crack cocaine as part of a FBI sting.  "The b***h set me up" instantly became a part of the nation's popular culture and still probably remains the most quoted statements by a politician in recent history.

For those who may be too young to remember the incident or whose memories have faded, Spike Lee is looking to change all that with a movie about Barry for HBO starring Eddie Murphy titled "The Nine Lives of Marion Barry."  It will be interesting to see how Lee portrays Barry on screen, as he is both revered and reviled, depending on who you ask.

Whatever you may think of the man, it's difficult to argue against the fact that his story will make for fascinating television.  He returned from national disgrace and serving time to prison to once again hold a place of prominence in his hometown's politics.  Maybe Blagojevich will be allowed to watch from prison and take some notes! 

James Ross
Author of Lifetime Loser, Finish Line, Tuey's Course, Opur's Blade, and Pabby's Score
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