Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the greatest TV dramas of all time. The show, which aired from 2008 to 2013, follows the journey of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to making and selling methamphetamine after being diagnosed with cancer. The show’s complex characters, intricate plot, and gripping tension have captured the hearts of fans all over the world. But despite its popularity, there are still many secrets and little-known facts about Breaking Bad that even the most devoted fans may not know.
- The original pitch for the show was very different: Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan initially pitched the show as a comedy about a middle-aged man who becomes a drug dealer to provide for his family after being diagnosed with cancer. However, the network executives at AMC saw the potential for a darker, more dramatic series and encouraged Gilligan to take it in that direction.
- The show’s title is a southern colloquialism: “Breaking bad” is a southern expression that means to “raise hell” or engage in wild behavior. The phrase was used frequently in the south during the 1960s and 70s.
- Bryan Cranston almost didn’t get the role of Walter White: Gilligan originally wanted actor John Cusack to play the lead role, but Cusack declined. Matthew Broderick was also considered for the part before Cranston was ultimately cast.
- The show was originally set in California: The original pitch for the show had it set in California, but Gilligan ultimately decided to move the show to Albuquerque, New Mexico, because of the state’s generous tax incentives for film and TV productions.
- Aaron Paul auditioned for the role of a different character: Paul originally auditioned for the role of Jesse Pinkman’s friend, Badger. However, after seeing Paul’s audition, Gilligan created the character of Jesse specifically for him.
- The show’s use of color was intentional: Breaking Bad uses color as a way to convey meaning and symbolism. For example, the color green is often associated with money, while blue is associated with Walter’s methamphetamine.
- The show’s iconic “crystal meth” was actually made from rock candy: To create the methamphetamine that appears on the show, the props department used rock candy that was dyed blue. The candy was then broken into small pieces to resemble the appearance of meth.
- The show’s finale was the most-watched episode in the series: The final episode of Breaking Bad, “Felina,” was watched by over 10 million viewers, making it the most-watched episode in the show’s history.
- Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul have a lasting friendship: The two actors, who played Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, respectively, have remained close friends since the show’s end. They even started a mezcal brand together called Dos Hombres.
- The show’s success inspired a spin-off series: Better Call Saul, which premiered in 2015, is a prequel series that follows the story of Breaking Bad’s fan-favorite character, Saul Goodman. The show has also been successful and has received critical acclaim.
In conclusion, Breaking Bad is a show that continues to captivate audiences years after its initial release. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and intense tension, it’s no surprise that fans still can’t get enough of it. And while these secrets and little-known facts about the show may only scratch the surface of what makes it so special, they’re a testament to the dedication and creativity of the show’s creators, cast, and crew.
