(ETA - though as executrix says in comments, set in a circle of hell)
I've never seen a show with such a diverse range of interesting black characters. Season 2 introduces the white working class too. I'd probably like to see a greater range of female characters, though the women who are shown are fully rounded human beings, like the men. But overall - there's barely a character who isn't 3-dimensional, engaging, and unique. The actors must have absolutely loved working on this.
I think the sexiest character is Russell 'Stringer' Bell. This is at least partly, for me, because he is Jayne-sized. I can't really find a good picture of him. But it's mainly his manner anyway. Here he is looking corporate. If you are a 'Wire' watcher, who do you fancy most?
I can not imagine why this show hasn't been shown on mainstream TV in this country.