Mr Nice

Mr Nice was the alias of Howard Marks (1945-2016), a Welsh drug smuggler who became a counterculture icon after publishing his autobiography, Mr. Nice, in 1996.

Marks earned a degree in physics from Oxford University before becoming involved in large-scale cannabis smuggling during the 1970s and 1980s. He utilized numerous aliases and elaborate schemes to transport cannabis around the world, often claiming to be working for various intelligence agencies as a cover.

He was eventually arrested in Spain in 1988 and extradited to the United States, where he was sentenced to 25 years in prison. He was released on parole in 1995 after serving seven years.

Following his release, Marks embraced his notoriety, becoming a writer, performer, and advocate for cannabis legalization. His autobiography, Mr. Nice, became a bestseller and was later adapted into a film. He also toured extensively, giving lectures and stand-up comedy performances.

The "Mr. Nice" moniker is associated with charm, intelligence, and a rebellious attitude toward drug laws. It has become synonymous with his persona as a sophisticated and charismatic drug smuggler.