Breaking Bad Actor Giancarlo Esposito Accepts Islam in Saudi Arabia

Key Takeaways

• Giancarlo Esposito, 68, embraced Islam in Saudi Arabia while filming the action film 7 Dogs
• General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Al-Sheikh shared the news alongside a video of Esposito praying at a mosque
• Al-Sheikh said Esposito’s decision came after a positive experience with Muslims during his time in the Kingdom

Hollywood actor Giancarlo Esposito has embraced Islam in Saudi Arabia, according to General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Al-Sheikh. The 68-year-old, best known for playing Gustavo “Gus” Fring in Breaking Bad, recited the Shahada — the Islamic declaration of faith — during his stay in the Kingdom.

What Al-Sheikh Said

Al-Sheikh said Esposito recited the Shahada and joined members of the production team in prayer at a mosque while filming in the Kingdom. He added that Esposito’s decision came after a positive experience during his time in Saudi Arabia and his interactions with Muslims while working there.

Al-Sheikh shared the news in a post on X, accompanied by a video appearing to show Esposito praying alongside crew members inside a mosque.

Esposito is currently in Saudi Arabia for the production of Seven Dogs, one of the Kingdom’s biggest entertainment projects as it continues to expand its film and television industry.

Saudi Arabia has drawn a growing number of international productions in recent years as the country develops its entertainment sector and builds out its film industry infrastructure.

Esposito’s Career

Esposito has worked across film, television, and theatre for more than four decades. His portrayal of Gus Fring in Breaking Bad brought him international recognition, a role he later reprised in the spin-off series Better Call Saul.

He has also appeared in The Mandalorian, The Boys, and Do the Right Thing, among other productions.