Billy Hayes is an American author and former drug smuggler, best known for his memoir, “Midnight Express.” The book recounts his experiences in a Turkish prison after being arrested for attempting to smuggle hashish out of Turkey in the 1970s. His story gained widespread attention and was later adapted into an Academy Award-winning film. Hayes was born on April 3, 1947, in Saratoga Springs, New York. After his release from prison, he became a motivational speaker and advocate against drug use. His experiences have sparked discussions about the legal and cultural differences surrounding drug laws in various countries.