Breaking Bad, the critically acclaimed television series that gripped audiences with its gripping narrative of transformation, morality, and consequences, left an indelible mark on the landscape of television. From its captivating storyline to its morally ambiguous characters, the show offered a masterclass in storytelling and acting. But what became of the talented actors who brought these unforgettable characters to life? Beyond the blue meth and the suspenseful standoffs, what paths have Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn, and the rest of the phenomenal Breaking Bad cast pursued? This article delves into the post-Breaking Bad careers and personal lives of the key players, exploring how their time in Albuquerque propelled them to new heights and shaped their trajectories. We’ll explore what they did before the show, what Breaking Bad provided them and how they spent their careers after the final episode was aired.
Bryan Cranston: The Transformation of Walter White
Before Heisenberg donned his iconic porkpie hat, Bryan Cranston was already a familiar face in Hollywood. His comedic timing and endearing presence were showcased in the beloved sitcom Malcolm in the Middle, where he played the endearingly hapless father, Hal. Cranston’s pre-Breaking Bad career demonstrated his versatility, but it was his portrayal of Walter White, the mild-mannered chemistry teacher who transforms into a ruthless drug kingpin, that cemented his status as a phenomenal actor.
Walter White became a cultural icon, and Cranston’s portrayal was nothing short of mesmerizing. He flawlessly captured the character’s descent from desperation to power, showcasing a range of emotions from fear and vulnerability to arrogance and ruthlessness. Breaking Bad didn’t just make Cranston a household name; it also earned him multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, solidifying his place among the acting elite.
Post-Breaking Bad, Cranston continued to embrace challenging and diverse roles. He starred in films such as Godzilla, Trumbo (earning him an Academy Award nomination), and Argo. He also ventured into theater, receiving critical acclaim for his performances on Broadway, including a Tony Award for his portrayal of President Lyndon B. Johnson in All the Way. Cranston’s post-Breaking Bad choices highlight his commitment to quality projects and his desire to explore the full breadth of his talent. He has consistently sought roles that challenge him, proving that he is far more than just Walter White. In addition to his acting work, Cranston has also branched out into writing and directing, showcasing his multi-faceted talents.
Aaron Paul: The Evolution of Jesse Pinkman
Before becoming the troubled yet lovable Jesse Pinkman, Aaron Paul worked steadily in television and film, appearing in guest roles on shows like The X-Files, ER, and NYPD Blue. However, it was his role as Walter White’s reluctant partner in crime that catapulted him to international stardom. Jesse Pinkman became a fan favorite, his vulnerability and moral compass providing a counterpoint to Walter’s increasingly dark actions.
Aaron Paul brought depth and complexity to Jesse, portraying his struggles with addiction, his search for redemption, and his genuine affection for those he cared about. His performance earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, cementing his status as a truly gifted actor.
Following Breaking Bad, Aaron Paul continued to pursue diverse and challenging roles. He voiced Todd Chavez in the critically acclaimed animated series BoJack Horseman, showcasing his comedic talent and his ability to convey complex emotions through voice acting. He also starred in the Hulu series The Path, exploring themes of faith and devotion. Other notable projects include roles in the films Need for Speed, Exodus: Gods and Kings, and a return to the character of Jesse Pinkman in El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie, a satisfying epilogue to the series. Aaron Paul also has been busy with appearances in Westworld, where he also puts on a stellar performance.
Beyond his acting career, Aaron Paul is known for his advocacy work and his close relationship with his fans. He frequently engages with fans on social media and is known for his generosity and kindness. He is a dedicated husband and father, and his personal life reflects the same warmth and compassion that he brought to his role as Jesse Pinkman.
Anna Gunn: The Challenges of Playing Skyler White
Anna Gunn had a successful career in television before landing the role of Skyler White, Walter’s increasingly conflicted wife, appearing in shows like Deadwood and The Practice. However, it was her portrayal of Skyler that brought her widespread recognition – and, unfortunately, a significant amount of unwarranted criticism.
Skyler was a complex character, forced to grapple with her husband’s dangerous choices and the devastating consequences for their family. Anna Gunn portrayed Skyler with strength, intelligence, and a deep sense of morality. Despite her nuanced performance, Gunn faced a torrent of online hate from viewers who disliked Skyler’s perceived interference with Walter’s plans. This backlash was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by actresses playing complex female characters and sparked important conversations about sexism and misogyny in fandom.
After Breaking Bad, Anna Gunn continued to thrive in television and film. She starred in the series Gracepoint, an American adaptation of the British crime drama Broadchurch. She also appeared in films such as Sully, directed by Clint Eastwood, and Equity, a Wall Street thriller that explored the challenges faced by women in the financial industry. Gunn has consistently chosen roles that showcase her talent and allow her to explore complex female characters. She’s also been very vocal about the backlash she received while on Breaking Bad and helped pave the way for other strong, complex female characters in television.
Dean Norris: From Hank Schrader to Beyond
Dean Norris was a seasoned character actor before joining the Breaking Bad cast, appearing in numerous television shows and films, often in roles as law enforcement officers or military personnel. He was the quintessential “that guy” – recognizable but not necessarily a household name. His role as Hank Schrader, Walter’s DEA agent brother-in-law, changed all that.
Hank was a complex and compelling character, balancing a tough exterior with a sense of humor and a strong moral compass. Dean Norris brought a depth and humanity to Hank, making him both relatable and admirable. His performance earned him critical acclaim and helped solidify his status as a versatile and talented actor.
Post-Breaking Bad, Dean Norris continued to work steadily in television and film. He starred in the series Under the Dome, based on the Stephen King novel, and Claws, a darkly comedic drama about a group of manicurists involved in organized crime. He has also appeared in films such as Death Wish and Fist Fight. Norris continues to be a sought-after character actor, demonstrating his ability to excel in a variety of roles. He is active on social media and enjoys interacting with fans. His signature gruff voice is unmistakable, and he continues to land roles that capitalize on his commanding presence.
Betsy Brandt: The Endearing Marie Schrader
Before portraying Marie Schrader, Hank’s kleptomaniac wife and Skyler’s sister, Betsy Brandt built a solid career in television, with guest appearances in various shows. While her previous roles showcased her acting abilities, it was her portrayal of Marie in Breaking Bad that brought her widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
Marie Schrader was a distinctive and often humorous character, adding a touch of levity to the otherwise intense and dramatic narrative of Breaking Bad. Despite her flaws, Marie was also deeply caring and fiercely loyal to her family. Betsy Brandt brought a quirky charm and genuine warmth to the character, making her both endearing and relatable.
Following Breaking Bad, Betsy Brandt continued to excel in television. She played a main role in the CBS comedy Life in Pieces, demonstrating her comedic talents. She also reprised her role as Marie Schrader in Better Call Saul, further exploring the character’s complexities and relationships. Brandt has shown her ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill and has become a sought-after actress in the industry. She continues to take on roles that challenge her and showcase her versatility.
Bob Odenkirk: From Comedy Roots to Saul Goodman’s Triumph
Bob Odenkirk started his career in comedy, writing for Saturday Night Live and The Ben Stiller Show, and co-creating and starring in the cult classic sketch comedy series Mr. Show with Bob and David. He was a comedic force to be reckoned with long before he stepped into the shoes of Saul Goodman, the morally flexible lawyer who becomes a key player in Walter White’s criminal empire.
Saul Goodman was initially conceived as a supporting character, providing comic relief and legal assistance to Walter and Jesse. However, Bob Odenkirk’s portrayal of Saul was so compelling and multifaceted that the character quickly became a fan favorite. Odenkirk brought a unique blend of humor, sleaze, and vulnerability to Saul, making him both entertaining and surprisingly sympathetic.
The success of Saul Goodman led to the spin-off series Better Call Saul, which chronicles Saul’s transformation from small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill into the ethically challenged Saul Goodman. Odenkirk’s performance in Better Call Saul has been universally praised, earning him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Beyond his work as Saul Goodman, Odenkirk has continued to work in comedy and drama, demonstrating his versatility and range. He has also written and directed films, showcasing his creative talents beyond acting. In 2021, Odenkirk suffered a heart attack on set but has thankfully made a full recovery and has shared his experience with fans.
Giancarlo Esposito: The Chilling Presence of Gustavo Fring
Giancarlo Esposito was an established actor with a long and impressive career before joining the cast of Breaking Bad. He had appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing his versatility and range. However, it was his portrayal of Gustavo Fring, the calm, calculated, and utterly terrifying drug kingpin, that brought him widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
Gustavo Fring was a master of control, hiding his criminal empire behind the facade of a successful fast-food chain. Giancarlo Esposito brought a chilling stillness and quiet menace to the character, making him one of the most memorable villains in television history. His performance earned him Emmy nominations and cemented his status as a phenomenal character actor.
Post-Breaking Bad, Giancarlo Esposito has continued to thrive in television, often playing complex and powerful characters. He reprised his role as Gus Fring in Better Call Saul, further exploring the character’s backstory and motivations. He has also appeared in series such as The Mandalorian, The Boys, and Godfather of Harlem, showcasing his ability to excel in a variety of genres. Esposito has found success voicing parts in video games such as Far Cry 6 and has continued to take on new roles as well. He remains a sought-after actor, bringing his gravitas and intensity to every performance.
The Legacy of Breaking Bad and Its Cast
The success of Breaking Bad undoubtedly had a profound impact on the careers of its cast members. It provided them with a platform to showcase their talents, reach a global audience, and establish themselves as some of the most respected actors in the industry. While some have jokingly referred to a “Breaking Bad curse,” suggesting that the show’s success might overshadow their future work, the reality is that the cast has continued to thrive, embracing challenging and diverse roles that demonstrate their versatility and range. The show allowed the cast to be noticed, and provided financial means to continue their journey in acting.
From Bryan Cranston’s dramatic turns and stage triumphs to Aaron Paul’s exploration of complex characters and Anna Gunn’s advocacy for nuanced female roles, the Breaking Bad cast has proven that they are far more than just the characters they portrayed in Albuquerque. They continue to shape the landscape of television and film, leaving an enduring legacy that will be celebrated for years to come. Their performances in Breaking Bad will forever be etched in the annals of television history, but their post-Breaking Bad careers demonstrate their enduring talent and their unwavering commitment to the craft of acting. The Breaking Bad cast has not only left its mark on television history, but on our viewing experiences forever.
