Ranking ‘Breaking Bad’ Characters: Who’s the Most Likable in the Series?

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Is it possible that another series like “Breaking Bad” will emerge? We certainly hope so! This captivating show about a high school chemistry teacher who turns to producing methamphetamine to provide for his family after receiving a stage-three lung cancer diagnosis continues to be beloved by many. In 2023 alone, it was streamed for an astonishing 505 million hours on Netflix, demonstrating that the demand for such engaging content remains undiminished.

While on air, “Breaking Bad” amassed an impressive 16 Emmy awards and in 2013, it was granted the Guinness World Record for the most critically lauded TV series ever produced. A significant factor contributing to its success is its compelling characters. Each character’s journey is captivating enough to spark genuine emotion. However, certain residents of Albuquerque are hard to like due to their dubious decisions, lack of charm, or sheer wickedness. On the other hand, there are those you wouldn’t think twice about sharing a drink with.

10
Skyler White

Skyler White (played by Anna Gunn) is not particularly affectionate towards Walter White, her husband. They first crossed paths when she was a waitress at a diner. Their marriage, filled with turbulence, could put divorce attorneys in a cheerful mood. Upon discovering that her spouse is involved in the drug trade, Skyler initially tries to stand by him, even suggesting ways to launder money through A1A Car Wash. However, she eventually becomes weary of his unpredictable actions.

A Woman Scorned… or a Woman Undecided?

Skyler’s character in the show is often met with intense dislike by viewers. To address this, Anna Gunn wrote an op-ed for The New York Times to ask fans to reconsider their negative feelings towards her. However, one might wonder why Skyler is so disliked when she doesn’t appear to be the main antagonist.

The issue seems to be that Skyler is indecisive and inconsistent in her support for her husband Walt. Whenever she decides to punish him, she does so in a harsh manner. For example, she sleeps with Ted Beneke not out of love or necessity, but merely as a means of retaliation.

The most controversial action taken by Skyler is when she gives Ted $615,000 of Walt’s money to pay off his IRS debts. This act, seen as unforgivable by many, raises questions about her loyalty and integrity.

9
Walt. Jr., aka, Flynn

Initially, Walter and Skyler’s son, Walter White Jr., portrayed by R.J Mitte, enjoys a warm relationship with both his parents. However, this bond deteriorates significantly when he discovers that his father is involved in the illegal production of drugs. Additionally, Walt Jr. idolizes his uncle, Hank, perceiving him as more appealing compared to his parents.

Could Have Been a Much Better Son

Walt Jr., despite not being annoying or wicked, is often perceived as the most amiable character in the show. However, there’s a sense of blandness about him, which isn’t necessarily his fault. The writers could have given him more memorable scenes that truly reflected his personality. Sadly, the two standout moments we see from him are him calling his father a “coward” for avoiding chemotherapy and telling him to “just… just die already,” primarily because he had earned millions to secure his family’s future. Frankly, these reasons seem rather harsh coming from Walt Jr., don’t they?

8
Marie Schrader

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but notice Marie, Skyler’s sister and Hank’s wife (played by Betsy Brandt), who frequently graces our screens. Professionally, she’s a radiologic technologist, but her storylines often revolve around family matters. Throughout the series, we see her engaging in heartfelt conversations with her husband or her sister. As the plot thickens and the stakes get higher, Marie finds herself increasingly entwined in Hank’s personal affairs.

Same Old Marie

During a Q&A session, Betsy Brandt depicted her character as “a rather unfriendly woman,” and it’s hard to argue with that portrayal. Marie often gives advice but has significant shortcomings, such as a propensity for stealing any attractive items she comes across. Additionally, Marie doesn’t seem to progress or develop throughout the storyline. Instead, we only see occasional disagreements between her and others.

7
Walter White

In the past, Walter White (Bryan Cranston) jointly established Gray Matter Technologies but later sold his shares for a mere $5000. Remarkably, this company went on to be worth billions. With his career as a high school chemistry teacher providing him little financial security, he was struggling to make ends meet. Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, he decided to manufacture methamphetamine, hoping to ensure his family’s well-being after his passing. It is no surprise that he eventually grew fond of the drug trade and rose to become its leader.

Smart but Amoral

Walter White is undeniably one of TV’s most compelling characters due to his intelligence, but there’s no denying that he’s incredibly reprehensible – a fact that becomes apparent upon repeated viewings. Throughout the series, Walt commits acts that are virtually unforgivable. He callously watches as Jane dies from an overdose, an event that ultimately causes a plane crash. Moreover, he cold-bloodedly kills Mike for information he could have obtained elsewhere, and remains entrenched in the drug trade despite being fully aware of its perils. Tragically, it was his actions that led to Hank’s death.

6
Hank Schrader

Throughout the series, DEA agent Hank Schrader – Walt’s brother-in-law – is primarily engaged in searching for the enigmatic drug kingpin called Heisenberg. However, despite his intelligence, it takes him quite some time to comprehend that the person he’s been pursuing is a close relative of his own.

A Memorable TV Lawman

At first, Hank seems arrogant and overbearing, picking on people and acting like a self-proclaimed supercop while failing to capture someone who’s barely elusive. His pursuit of Heisenberg risks spoiling the enjoyment for viewers, making him dislikable due to his meddling. The way he harmed Jesse is unforgivable too. However, as the series unfolds, Hank becomes more sympathetic and ultimately takes on the role of the main character. His gunfight with the Salamanca cousins is one of TV’s greatest action scenes, and his courage in the face of danger is commendable. Despite never apprehending his target, he dies a hero.

5
Badger & Skinny Pete

As a dedicated cinephile, I can’t help but reminisce about the unbreakable bond between Badger (Matt Jones) and Skinny Pete (Charles Baker). These low-key drug peddlers are more than just acquaintances; they’re close friends of Jesse Pinkman. Whenever Jesse calls upon them, they’re ready to lend a hand without hesitation. Among these two, it’s Skinny Pete who plays a pivotal role in our story. He was instrumental in introducing Jesse and Walt to the big leagues of drug trafficking. Skinny Pete introduced them to Tuco, which eventually propelled their operations to greater heights.

Street Bros

There’s no greater loyalty than these two characters possess. If they were ever faced with a choice between a life sentence or betrayal, we’d wager they’d opt for the former. What fans adore most about these drug dealers is their playful banter. They never fail to come up with the silliest sayings and stay in touch with current pop culture trends. Badger, in particular, is a connoisseur of classic sci-fi films, often referencing “Star Wars.” We’re thankful to Gilligan and his crew for keeping these brothers alive on the show.

4
Gustavo “Gus” Fring

Gus, played by Giancarlo Esposito, is a significant Chilean-American figure who disguises his methamphetamine distribution operation in the Southwestern U.S. under the facade of his Los Pollos Hermanos restaurant network. Over time, he hires Walt and Jesse to work as cooks for him. However, their professional alliance turns sour, leaving Gus with a face that resembles the menacing villain, Two-Face, from Batman lore, who is also known as Harvey Dent.

The King of Composure

In a different wording: Gus is an exceptionally cool mastermind, and Esposito portrays him so authentically that he’s been stuck in similar roles since Breaking Bad concluded. He operates from a cutting-edge lab hidden beneath a Laundromat and smuggles drugs using chicken trucks. Gus rarely shows signs of panic and always seems to outmaneuver his adversaries (except for Walter). Polished and calm, he provides a refreshing contrast to the show’s other intimidating antagonists.

3
Saul Goodman

In “Better Call Saul,” we’re introduced to the character Saul, who is in reality known as Jimmy McGill (played by Bob Odenkirk). Before this show, his true identity remained unknown. One of the first encounters we witness is when he offers legal representation for a man named Badger. Given his sharp intellect, it doesn’t take long for him to discern that Heisenberg is actually Walter White. Instead of distancing himself from Walt, Jimmy decides to facilitate a connection between Walt and Gus, which sets off a chain of events that quickly gather momentum.

A “Criminal” Lawyer

As a die-hard fan, I’d say it this way: I can’t imagine where Walter White would be without the incredible ingenuity of Saul Goodman. He orchestrated many of Walt’s schemes, from laundering money through the “SaveWalterWhite.com” website to covering up evidence after Jane’s tragic death. He even misdirected Hank when he was on the verge of cracking the case wide open. And in those tense moments, Saul served as a much-needed dose of humor, providing some welcome comic relief.

2
Mike Ehrmantraut

On the television series, Mike Ehrmantraut, a previous police officer from Philadelphia, often performs duties as a muscle for Gustavo “Gus” Fring. This includes tasks such as observation, cleanup, and numerous other high-risk assignments. It’s not surprising that Walt’s choice to eliminate Gus creates tension between Mike and him.

Meticulous and Dependable

Mike is always reliable, even in challenging circumstances. He’s not only level-headed and farsighted, but also courageous. He never argues unnecessarily with others. Furthermore, Mike demonstrates great flexibility. Despite his disagreement with Walt, he collaborates with them to establish a new venture, helping them transition after Gus. This action showcases his compassionate side, but unfortunately, it ultimately leads to his downfall.

1
Jesse Pinkman

Initially, Aaron Paul’s character, Jesse Pinkman, was one of Walter White’s chemistry students. Later in life, they transitioned from student-teacher relationship to partners in illicit drug production and distribution. Walt recruited Jesse due to his street smarts, and together they formed a formidable duo, initially working under Gus Fring before eventually striking out on their own.

Moral Conscience

Jesse and Walt’s relationship is poisonous, with Jesse often finding himself in a position of suffering. As viewers, we can’t help but empathize with Jesse’s plight and wish for him to receive justice. Despite their mutual involvement in wrongdoings, it appears that only Jesse carries the weight of guilt and remorse. His reactions seem genuine, reflecting how an ordinary person might respond.

Speaking about his own character to The Guardian, Aaron Paul said:

It’s surprising how some people have started supporting Jesse, given his initial reputation as a drug addict and perceived lack of intelligence. However, as more episodes unfolded, it became clear that he was anything but the stereotype we once thought him to be.

Hopefully, Jesse…sorry… Mr. Driscoll is now enjoying his life in Alaska.

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2025-02-09 05:34