It’s hard to believe that over a decade has passed since the final, earth-shattering episode of “Breaking Bad” aired, leaving us all reeling from the incredible journey of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. This show, which first captivated audiences on AMC in January 2008, started with a high school chemistry teacher’s desperate turn to meth production and grew into a global phenomenon. It was a series that defied initial critical skepticism, evolving into what Guinness World Records declared the most critically acclaimed show of all time by 2013, amassing an astounding 16 Primetime Emmy Awards out of 58 nominations.
Despite the very heavy themes of its content, “Breaking Bad” resonated deeply with viewers and critics alike. As Aaron Paul reflected in 2018, early concerns about glamorizing drug dealing “quickly went away the moment we hit the air.” Bryan Cranston echoed this sentiment, noting how “the critics and fans saw what the show was about and were sympathetic to these characters.” The series wasn’t just a hit; it forged indelible bonds, not just between its characters on screen, but between the cast members themselves, a genuine love that Cranston described as a stroke of luck.
Now, with a prequel series, “Better Call Saul,” and a sequel film, “El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie,” having further expanded this intricate universe, fans are still as invested as ever in the lives of the actors who brought these unforgettable characters to life. We’ve all whispered “Heisenberg” and perhaps imagined tasting those infamous blue crystals. So, it’s the perfect time to catch up with some of the incredible talent from the “Breaking Bad” cast and see what they’ve been up to since they left the deserts of New Mexico behind.
1. **Bryan Cranston as Walter White**If there’s one role that defines an era of television, it’s Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White, a character so complex and transformative that he became known as Heisenberg. While Walter White may be his most iconic, Cranston was already a beloved face from the hit sitcom “Malcolm in The Middle,” proving his incredible range long before he ever donned a pork pie hat and aviator glasses.
Since “Breaking Bad” concluded its run in 2013, Bryan Cranston has been exceptionally busy, solidifying his status as a versatile and in-demand actor across film, television, and even the stage. His filmography post-“Breaking Bad” is impressive, including significant roles in “Contagion” (2011), “Drive” (2011), and “Argo” (2013), showcasing his ability to blend into diverse cinematic landscapes. He even earned an Oscar nomination for his powerful depiction of blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo in the 2015 film “Trumbo.”
On television, Cranston continued his streak of critical acclaim, bagging a Golden Globe nomination for his compelling work in “Your Honor,” which ran from 2020 to 2023. Beyond the screen, he conquered Broadway, taking on the role of Lyndon B. Johnson in the play “All the Way” in 2013, an performance that earned him a prestigious Tony Award. His career has also seen him in blockbusters like “Godzilla” (2014), comedies such as “Why Him?” (2016), and more recent projects like “Asteroid City” (2023) and the upcoming “Argylle” (2024).
Cranston also delighted fans by reprising his legendary role as Walter White in the “Breaking Bad” spinoff “Better Call Saul” in 2022. His bond with co-star Aaron Paul remains strong, extending beyond professional collaboration to a deep friendship, with Bryan even serving as the Godfather to Aaron’s son. In a testament to their enduring partnership, the two teamed up in 2019 to launch their own mezcal brand, Dos Hombres, showing that their chemistry is as potent off-screen as it was on.
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2. **Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman**Aaron Paul’s portrayal of Jesse Pinkman, Walter White’s former student and reluctant partner-in-crime, was nothing short of a revelation. Before becoming the voice of “Yeah, science!” and a fan-favorite character, Paul had played several side roles in films like “Van Wilder” (2002) and “Mission Impossible 3” (2006). While he was a recognizable face, his true breakout moment, the one that cemented him in the annals of television history, came alongside Bryan Cranston in “Breaking Bad.”
After the series concluded, Aaron Paul dove into a variety of projects, aiming to prove his range beyond the meth lab. He took on a leading role in “Need For Speed” (2014), though the movie didn’t achieve significant commercial success. However, this didn’t deter him, as he went on to appear as a supporting character in multiple high-stakes projects, showcasing his dramatic chops in films such as “Exodus: Gods and Kings” (2014), “Triple 9” (2016), and “Dual” (2022).
Fans rejoiced when Aaron Paul returned to the character of Jesse Pinkman in 2019 with “El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie,” providing a much-needed and emotionally resonant conclusion to Jesse’s often-tragic story. He also made another anticipated appearance in 2022 for the finale of “Better Call Saul.” Beyond the “Breaking Bad” universe, Paul has lent his distinctive voice to characters like Powerplex in “Invincible Season 3,” a role highly appreciated by fans, and starred in animated shows like “BoJack Horseman,” and live-action series such as “The Path” and “Westworld.”
On the personal front, Aaron Paul has embraced significant milestones. He married Lauren in 2013, the same year “Breaking Bad” wrapped up, and their family has grown beautifully with the arrival of their daughter Story in 2018 and son Ryden in 2022. His deep bond with Bryan Cranston extends to a successful business venture; in 2019, they famously teamed up to launch their acclaimed mezcal brand, Dos Hombres, celebrating their enduring friendship and shared success.
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3. **Krysten Ritter as Jane Margolis**Krysten Ritter’s performance as Jane Margolis, Jesse Pinkman’s landlord and deeply beloved love interest, left an indelible mark on “Breaking Bad.” Her character’s tragic death was one of the most shocking and heartbreaking moments in the entire series, a scene that continues to haunt fans to this day. Before her impactful role in “Breaking Bad,” Ritter had already built a respectable career, appearing in popular shows like “Law & Order,” “Veronica Mars,” and “Gilmore Girls.”
Following her memorable, albeit short-lived, tenure on “Breaking Bad,” Krysten Ritter’s career soared, particularly in television. She went on to secure larger roles, demonstrating her versatility in the comedic series “Don’t Trust the B— in Apartment 23,” which ran from 2012 to 2013. Perhaps her most significant post-“Breaking Bad” role was stepping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the titular character in “Jessica Jones,” a critically acclaimed series that aired from 2015 to 2019, where she earned widespread praise for her strong performance.
Ritter also briefly reprised her role as Jane, much to the delight of fans, in a powerful flashback sequence featured in “El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie,” reminding everyone of her character’s profound influence on Jesse. More recently, she’s continued to diversify her acting portfolio, making an appearance in “Sonic The Hedgehog 3” as Director Rockwell, showcasing her ability to tackle various genres and roles.
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4. **Anna Gunn as Skyler White**Anna Gunn took on the challenging role of Skyler White, Walter White’s wife, in “Breaking Bad.” Her character became one of the most polarizing figures in television history, often earning the ire of a significant portion of the fanbase. Despite the intense hatred some viewers directed at Skyler, Anna Gunn has consistently expressed no ill feelings about playing the role, a testament to her professionalism and understanding of her character’s narrative importance.
In fact, her powerful and nuanced portrayal of Skyler White brought her immense critical recognition, landing her two highly deserved Emmy Awards, proving the artistic merit of her performance even in the face of audience disapproval. These accolades underscored her talent and commitment to a character that, while often difficult to like, was integral to the show’s moral and emotional fabric.
Since the conclusion of “Breaking Bad,” Anna Gunn has continued to build on her acclaimed career with a steady stream of roles. She secured regular appearances in television series such as “Gracepoint” (2014) and “Shades of Blue” (2017), further showcasing her range and depth as an actress. More recently, she bagged a major role alongside the esteemed Colin Farrell in “Sugar,” which premiered on Apple TV+ in 2024, continuing to choose projects that challenge and highlight her acting prowess. She also shared the screen with Tom Hanks in the 2016 film “Sully.”
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5. **Bob Odenkirk as Saul Goodman**If you thought Harvey Spector made being a lawyer cool, then watching Bob Odenkirk as Saul Goodman would make you want to enroll in law school immediately. Bob Odenkirk brought to life Saul Goodman, the cunning, morally flexible, and incredibly charismatic lawyer who became an unexpected fan favorite in “Breaking Bad.” His character was a master of legal loopholes and shady dealings, a conman with a law degree, and his presence was instantly captivating.
However, Bob Odenkirk was already a widely popular name long before he ever advised Walter White. He had a rich history in comedy, with an extensive list of credits from iconic shows like “Saturday Night Live,” “The Ben Stiller Show,” “The Dennis Miller Show,” and “Late Night With Conan O’Brien.” This background in comedic timing and character work perfectly set the stage for his unique portrayal of Saul Goodman.
After his pivotal role in “Breaking Bad,” Saul Goodman’s widespread popularity was undeniable, leading to his very own prequel series, “Better Call Saul.” This show, which debuted in 2015 and ran until 2022, naturally turned out to be a massive success, earning critical acclaim and further cementing Odenkirk’s legacy in the “Breaking Bad” universe. Odenkirk also had a recurring role in “How I Met Your Mother,” as well as notable appearances in “Fargo” (2023), “Undone,” “The Kominsky Method,” and “The Bear.”
His career also expanded into films, including voice work as Winston Deavor in “Incredibles 2” (2018), and live-action roles in “Nebraska” (2013), Steven Spielberg’s “The Post” (2017), and “Little Women” (2019). Most notably, he took on an action-packed leading role in “Nobody” (2021), a film that surprised audiences with his transformation into an unlikely action hero, and he is currently working on “Nobody 2.” In July 2021, while filming “Better Call Saul,” Bob experienced a heart attack but thankfully made a full recovery. Looking ahead, he is also set to star in the Broadway revival of “Glengarry Glen Ross,” scheduled to open in spring 2025.
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6. **Giancarlo Esposito as Gus Fring**Gustavo “Gus” Fring, portrayed with chilling precision by Giancarlo Esposito, appeared in “Breaking Bad” for only two seasons, yet he remains one of the most loved and terrifying villains to ever grace our screens. His quiet menace, calculated cruelty, and impeccable composure made him an unforgettable antagonist. While “Breaking Bad” undoubtedly brought Esposito to major fame, he already had a robust career in Hollywood, demonstrating his talent in a variety of roles long before he became the owner of Los Pollos Hermanos.
His pre-“Breaking Bad” filmography includes movies like “King of New York” (1990), “Night on Earth” (1991), and “The Usual Suspects” (1995), showcasing his versatility in diverse cinematic projects. He also appeared as a regular in the final season of “Homicide: Life on the Street” (1998–1999) and portrayed Muhammad Ali’s father in the 2001 film “Ali.”
After the shocking death of his character in season 4 of “Breaking Bad,” Esposito continued to thrive, often taking on formidable villainous roles that capitalize on his intense presence. He starred in “Revolution” (2012–2014) and later cemented his status as a go-to antagonist in acclaimed series such as “The Mandalorian” (2019–2023), “The Boys” (2019–present), “Once Upon a Time,” “Dear White People,” and “Westworld.” He also appeared in “Parish” (2024) in an action-packed lead role.
Esposito’s cinematic career has also flourished, with roles in “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials” (2015), “The Jungle Book” (2016), “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” (2023), and the upcoming “Megalopolis” (2024). Fans were also thrilled to see him return as Gus Fring in “Better Call Saul.” Most recently, Giancarlo Esposito has joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe, taking on the significant role of Seth Voelker, also known as Sidewinder, and is set to make his debut in “Captain America: Brave New World,” scheduled to hit theaters on February 14, 2025.
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7. **Dean Norris as Hank Schrader**Dean Norris delivered one of the most tragically compelling arcs in “Breaking Bad” with his portrayal of Hank Schrader. As a dedicated DEA agent, Hank was hell-bent on bringing down the elusive “Heisenberg,” completely unaware that the criminal mastermind he was chasing was none other than his own brother-in-law, Walter White. The agonizing moment when Hank unraveled Heisenberg’s true identity ultimately led to his devastating death, alongside his partner Steve Gomez, leaving an indelible impact on viewers.
Before his iconic role as the tough-but-lovable DEA agent, Dean Norris was no stranger to playing authority figures. His extensive career saw him frequently cast as law enforcement officers, military men, and similar roles across various films and television shows. He appeared in blockbusters like “Lethal Weapon 2” and “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” and had roles in popular series such as “The Practice,” “Six Feet Under,” and “Medium,” demonstrating his consistent presence in Hollywood.
In a much-anticipated return, Dean Norris reprised his role as Hank Schrader in “Better Call Saul” in 2020, offering fans another glimpse of his beloved character. Since then, his career has continued to flourish with roles in projects like “Curb Your Enthusiasm” (2024), “Unfrosted” (2024), and most recently, an appearance in “Carry-On” (2024). On the small screen, he has also kept busy with roles in “Under the Dome,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “Claws,” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime.” Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, in 2022, Dean and his wife Bridget Norris purchased The Swing Inn Cafe, a beloved eatery in Old Town, Temecula, California, showing that his ambitions extend beyond the screen into cherished community ventures.
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8. **Betsy Brandt as Marie Schrader**Betsy Brandt brought to life Marie Schrader, the vibrant and often-misunderstood sister-in-law to Walter White and devoted wife to DEA agent Hank Schrader. While Hank endured one of the most traumatic arcs in “Breaking Bad,” it was Marie who bore the painful emotional repercussions of his tragic death, a burden that resonated deeply with viewers. Before immersing herself in the world of Albuquerque’s criminal underworld, Betsy was already a familiar face, having graced popular shows like “ER” and “Boston Legal,” showcasing her talent early on.
After the critically acclaimed series wrapped its final season, Betsy Brandt continued to captivate audiences with a string of notable roles. She secured a major position in “The Michael J. Fox Show,” which ran from 2013 to 2014, demonstrating her versatility in a comedic setting. Her commitment to television comedy continued as she bagged a lead role in CBS’s “Life in Pieces,” a beloved series that aired for all four seasons, further cementing her status as a standout performer in ensemble casts.
Beyond these prominent roles, Brandt also made recurring appearances in highly regarded shows such as “Parenthood” between 2012 and 2014, and in the critically lauded “Masters of Sex” in 2014, proving her dramatic range. Fans were thrilled to see her step back into Marie Schrader’s shoes, much like many of her co-stars, for the highly anticipated series finale of “Better Call Saul” in 2022. Her recent work also includes roles in “Soulmates” and “Love, Victor,” showcasing her continued presence in compelling television projects.
9. **RJ Mitte as Walter White Jr.**For many, RJ Mitte’s portrayal of Walter White Jr., also known as Flynn, was his breakout role, instantly endearing him to a global audience. As the son of the infamous Walter White, his character experienced a truly heart-wrenching transformation, evolving from a loving and supportive son to one who tragically wished death upon his father. This complex emotional journey resonated powerfully with viewers, highlighting Mitte’s nuanced performance.
Following his unforgettable role in “Breaking Bad,” RJ Mitte transitioned seamlessly into the world of film, taking on diverse projects that showcased his evolving talent. He appeared in the sci-fi thriller “The Recall” in 2017, followed by the critically praised Australian film “Standing Up For Sunny” in 2019. His cinematic journey continued with roles in “The Oak Room” in 2020 and “Triumph” in 2021, where he played a determined high school student with cerebral palsy, reflecting his own personal experiences.
Beyond his acting career, Mitte has passionately leveraged his platform to advocate for disability awareness, becoming a celebrity ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy in 2015. His commitment to this cause highlights his dedication to making a real-world impact. In recent years, he delighted fans with his appearance in Netflix’s “The Guardians of Justice” in 2022, and shared a glimpse into his personal life by going public with his relationship with girlfriend Kennedy Blaire on Instagram in the same year, showing he’s truly embracing life both on and off screen.
10. **Jonathan Banks as Mike Ehrmantraut**Jonathan Banks delivered an absolutely unforgettable performance as Mike Ehrmantraut, the stoic, world-weary fixer who captivated audiences in “Breaking Bad.” His character was a gripping presence, a man of few words but immense impact, and his journey continued to resonate profoundly in the prequel series, “Better Call Saul.” Even though Mike met his untimely demise in the final season of “Breaking Bad,” his character remains one of the most adored and iconic figures to have graced television screens in a very long time.
Banks, a seasoned veteran, has enjoyed a prolific career stretching back to the 1970s and 80s, long before he became a household name as Mike. He left his mark in blockbuster films like “48 Hours” in 1982 and “Beverly Hills Cop” in 1984, showcasing his innate ability to deliver powerful supporting performances. His knack for television became evident with his role in “Wiseguy,” which aired from 1987 to 1990, establishing his enduring presence in the industry.
Since his time in “Breaking Bad,” Jonathan Banks has continued to be a highly sought-after talent, with an impressive array of guest appearances and recurring roles in some of television’s most acclaimed shows. He graced the screens of “Dexter” in 2007, brought his unique gravitas to “Parks and Recreation” in 2012, and even made a memorable appearance in “Modern Family” in 2011. Fans were also thrilled to see him reprise his beloved character in the 2019 Netflix film “El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie,” providing a poignant continuation of Jesse Pinkman’s story.
His recent work includes a starring role in Apple TV+’s sci-fi show “Constellation” in 2024, although the series was unfortunately canceled after just one season. Banks’ film career has also remained robust, with roles in “Horrible Bosses 2” in 2014 and lending his distinctive voice to “Incredibles 2” in 2018. The opportunity to revisit Mike Ehrmantraut in “Better Call Saul” allowed him to further explore the depths of this fan-favorite character, solidifying his incredible legacy.
Beyond their impressive careers, many cast members have embraced meaningful personal milestones, from starting families to philanthropic endeavors, demonstrating their impact extends far beyond the silver screen. Their collective contributions to the entertainment industry and their personal growth serve as a powerful testament to the show’s profound and enduring influence. As fans continue to revisit the meticulously crafted world of “Breaking Bad” through spin-offs like “Better Call Saul” and sequel films like “El Camino,” the cast’s continued success keeps the magic alive, inspiring both audiences and aspiring creators alike with their incredible journeys.
