Key Takeaways:
– Bryan Cranston’s outstanding role as Walter White in Breaking Bad remains monumental, creating an unforgettable television character.
– Creator Vince Gilligan was initially taken aback by Cranston’s performance in an episode of The X-Files.
– Cranston’s acting versatility, visible in shows like Malcolm in the Middle, worked in his favor to secure his role in Breaking Bad.
A Close Look at Bryan Cranston’s Memorable Role in Breaking Bad
Bryan Cranston, renowned for his diversity in acting, is loved for his role as Walter White in the ground-breaking TV series Breaking Bad. This troubled character, initially a simple high-school chemistry teacher, shifts gears to become a fearsome drug distributor upon being diagnosed with stage-three lung cancer. Despite his intimidating persona, fans surprisingly found themselves sympathizing with Walter White.
How it Started: Bryan Cranston Meets Vince Gilligan
Cranston’s remarkable portrayal of Walter White wasn’t Born in a day. It all started when Vince Gilligan met Cranston on the sets of The X-Files, where Gilligan was a writer. Cranston played the part of a ruthless yet pitiful character in the sixth season of the show called Drive, leaving a profound impression on Gilligan. Remembering his exceptional performance, Gilligan admitted on the WTF with Marc Maron podcast that he never forgot him and wanted to work with him again in the future.
The X-Files Meeting That Led to Breaking Bad
When Cranston appeared on The X-Files, Vince Gilligan was among the show’s writers. This meeting unknowingly set the stage for their collaboration on what was to become one of the finest television series. The way Cranston seamlessly brought out the humanity of his villainous character made Gilligan cast him as Walter White in Breaking Bad.
The Role of Versatility in Bagging the Part
However, it wasn’t just his role in The X-Files that convinced Vince Gilligan about Cranston’s fit for the role of Walter White. When Gilligan saw the range of Cranston’s acting skills in Malcolm in the Middle, he knew he’d found his Walter White. Even though AMC initially had reservations, given Cranston’s reputation for his comic role in Malcolm in the Middle, Gilligan remained adamant.
And that is how Breaking Bad, one of the most-loved television shows, was born, giving us the unforgettable character of Walter White – a testament to Cranston’s acting prowess and Gilligan’s genius. You can catch Breaking Bad streaming on Netflix. Remember, despite its gritty and intense storyline, it’s the way this series weaves complex characters like Walter White that makes it a must-watch.
In conclusion, Bryan Cranston’s role in Breaking Bad remains a testimony of his versatility and acting brilliance, shaping one of the most memorable characters in television history. His journey from playing a villainous character in The X-Files to the unforgettable Walter White in Breaking Bad continues to inspire and impress viewers and creators alike in the world of television.
