13 Breaking Bad Characters Ranked by Moral Compass

From Skyler to Walt

Breaking Bad captivated audiences with its intricate character development and moral complexity. The show's diverse cast of characters navigated a treacherous world of crime, each making choices that tested their ethical boundaries.

From Walter White's descent into villainy to Jesse Pinkman's struggles with conscience, Breaking Bad presented a spectrum of moral compasses. This article examines 13 key characters from the series, ranking them based on their ethical decisions and overall moral standing throughout the show's run. By analyzing their actions and motivations, we gain insight into the nuanced portrayal of morality in this groundbreaking television drama.

1) Walter White

Walter White begins Breaking Bad as a sympathetic high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with lung cancer. His initial motivation to provide for his family after his death seems noble.

However, Walter's moral compass rapidly deteriorates as he enters the drug trade. He repeatedly lies to his family and manipulates his former student Jesse Pinkman.

As "Heisenberg," Walter becomes increasingly ruthless. He poisons a child, allows Jane to die, and orders the murders of multiple people who stand in his way.

Walter's actions are driven by pride and a desire for power more than necessity. He rejects opportunities to leave the drug business when he has earned enough money.

By the end of the series, Walter has become a dangerous criminal mastermind responsible for numerous deaths. His final acts attempt to make amends, but cannot erase the trail of destruction he left behind.

Walter White's journey from mild-mannered teacher to drug kingpin showcases one of the most dramatic moral declines in television history. His character serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power and ego.

2) Jesse Pinkman

Jesse Pinkman's moral journey in Breaking Bad is a complex and transformative one. Initially presented as a small-time drug dealer, Jesse evolves into a character with a strong ethical core.

Throughout the series, Jesse grapples with the consequences of his actions. He displays remorse for the harm caused by the meth trade and often tries to minimize collateral damage.

Jesse's compassion sets him apart from many other characters. He shows genuine care for children and attempts to protect innocents caught in the crossfire of the drug world.

As the series progresses, Jesse becomes increasingly conflicted about his role in Walter White's empire. He struggles with guilt and seeks redemption for his past misdeeds.

Jesse's moral growth is evident in his attempts to leave the drug business and his resistance to unnecessary violence. His conscience often puts him at odds with Walt's more ruthless approach.

Despite his flaws, Jesse demonstrates a capacity for self-reflection and a desire to do the right thing. This moral awakening makes him a sympathetic character in the eyes of many viewers.

3) Skyler White

Skyler White occupies a complex position on the moral spectrum of Breaking Bad characters. Initially presented as Walter's supportive wife, her ethics are tested as she becomes entangled in his criminal activities.

Skyler's moral compass shifts throughout the series. She initially reacts with shock and disapproval to Walt's illegal actions, attempting to maintain her integrity and protect her family.

As the story progresses, Skyler reluctantly becomes complicit in Walt's crimes. She assists in money laundering and helps cover up his illegal activities, compromising her own principles in the process.

Despite her involvement, Skyler often expresses guilt and concern about the dangers their actions pose to their children. This inner conflict demonstrates that she hasn't completely abandoned her moral foundations.

Skyler's actions are often motivated by a desire to protect her family, even as she grapples with the ethical implications of her choices. This adds nuance to her character's moral standing within the Breaking Bad universe.

4) Hank Schrader

Hank Schrader, Walter White's brother-in-law and DEA agent, stands as one of the most morally upright characters in Breaking Bad. His unwavering commitment to law enforcement and justice drives his actions throughout the series.

As a DEA agent, Hank dedicates himself to combating drug trafficking in Albuquerque. He pursues criminals with determination and skill, even when faced with personal danger.

Hank's moral compass remains steady despite the challenges he encounters. He refuses to compromise his principles, even when it puts him at odds with his family and colleagues.

His pursuit of the elusive Heisenberg showcases his dedication to his job and his strong sense of right and wrong. Hank's integrity shines through as he continues his investigation, unaware that the criminal mastermind is his own brother-in-law.

Throughout the series, Hank's character evolves from a boisterous, sometimes insensitive figure to a more complex and sympathetic one. His struggles with PTSD and physical challenges only strengthen his resolve to uphold the law.

Hank's moral strength is particularly evident in his final confrontation with Walter White. He chooses to uphold his duty as a law enforcement officer, even at great personal cost.

5) Saul Goodman

Saul Goodman, born James McGill, occupies a morally ambiguous position in the Breaking Bad universe. As a lawyer, he frequently bends and breaks ethical rules to assist his clients, often criminals.

Saul's actions are primarily driven by self-interest and financial gain. He willingly aids Walter White and Jesse Pinkman in their drug enterprise, providing legal cover and money laundering services.

Despite his unethical practices, Saul rarely engages in direct violence. His crimes typically involve manipulation of the legal system and clever cons rather than physical harm to others.

Saul's moral compass is flexible, adapting to situations that benefit him most. He shows occasional glimpses of conscience but generally prioritizes his own survival and success over ethical considerations.

While not as overtly villainous as some characters, Saul's willingness to facilitate serious crimes places him firmly in the morally questionable category. His actions contribute significantly to the expansion of the drug trade in Albuquerque.

6) Gustavo Fring

Gustavo Fring presents a complex moral dilemma in Breaking Bad. His outward appearance as a successful businessman and philanthropist masks a ruthless drug lord.

Fring's actions are driven by a desire for power and vengeance, stemming from his past in Chile. He maintains strict professionalism and rarely resorts to unnecessary violence, preferring calculated moves.

His moral compass is guided by a twisted sense of loyalty and respect. Fring values efficiency and competence, rewarding those who meet his high standards while swiftly eliminating threats.

Despite his criminal activities, Fring demonstrates a capacity for kindness, particularly towards children and his employees at Los Pollos Hermanos. This duality adds depth to his character.

Fring's meticulous planning and self-control set him apart from more impulsive criminals. He operates with a long-term vision, often prioritizing stability over immediate gains.

Ultimately, Gustavo Fring's moral standing is ambiguous. His actions are undeniably criminal, yet his composed demeanor and strategic thinking make him a formidable and intriguing antagonist in the series.

7) Mike Ehrmantraut

Mike Ehrmantraut is a complex character in Breaking Bad, balancing a strong moral code with his involvement in criminal activities. As a former police officer turned hitman and fixer, Mike operates by a strict set of principles.

He values loyalty and professionalism above all else, often serving as a voice of reason in the chaotic world of drug trafficking. Mike's actions are driven by a desire to provide for his granddaughter's future, showcasing a softer side to his tough exterior.

Despite his criminal associations, Mike maintains a sense of honor and fairness. He avoids unnecessary violence and often tries to resolve conflicts through negotiation rather than force.

Mike's moral compass is evident in his treatment of Jesse Pinkman, whom he mentors and protects. This paternal instinct extends to his own family, demonstrating his capacity for genuine care and affection.

However, Mike's willingness to engage in illegal activities and murder for financial gain cannot be overlooked. His pragmatic approach to crime and violence places him in a morally gray area, despite his personal code of ethics.

8) Marie Schrader

Marie Schrader, Skyler's sister and Hank's wife, presents a complex moral profile in Breaking Bad. She maintains a mostly positive ethical stance throughout the series, though not without flaws.

Marie's strongest moral quality is her loyalty to family. She consistently supports Hank during his recovery and stands by her sister Skyler in difficult times.

Her kleptomania represents her main moral weakness. Marie occasionally steals items from open houses and stores, showcasing a disregard for others' property.

Despite this flaw, Marie generally tries to do the right thing. She is horrified when she learns of Walt's criminal activities and urges Skyler to come clean to the authorities.

Marie's moral compass shines when compared to many other characters in the show. She remains one of the few who never becomes entangled in the drug trade or associated criminal activities.

Her strong sense of justice is evident in her reaction to Walt's crimes. Marie advocates for holding him accountable, even at the cost of family relationships.

9) Todd Alquist

Todd Alquist is a chilling character in Breaking Bad who embodies the concept of banality of evil. Introduced in the fifth season, he quickly becomes involved in Walter White and Jesse Pinkman's methamphetamine operation through his work at Vamonos Pest.

Todd's polite demeanor and seemingly naive appearance mask his true nature as a cold-blooded killer. He carries out heinous acts with an unsettling calmness, demonstrating a complete lack of moral compass or empathy.

One of Todd's most disturbing actions is the murder of an innocent child witness without hesitation. This act showcases his ability to commit atrocities while maintaining a facade of normalcy.

Todd's relationship with Jesse Pinkman further highlights his morally bankrupt nature. He keeps Jesse captive and forces him to cook meth, displaying a complete disregard for human dignity and freedom.

Despite his outwardly pleasant demeanor, Todd's actions throughout the series reveal him to be one of the most morally reprehensible characters in Breaking Bad. His willingness to commit horrific acts without remorse places him near the bottom of any moral ranking.

10) Lydia Rodarte-Quayle

Lydia Rodarte-Quayle stands out as one of the more morally compromised characters in Breaking Bad. As a high-ranking executive at Madrigal Electromotive, she uses her position to facilitate large-scale drug distribution.

Lydia's moral compass is severely skewed by her pursuit of profit and self-preservation. She shows little regard for the lives affected by her actions, focusing solely on maintaining her luxurious lifestyle and status.

Her willingness to order murders and manipulate others for personal gain highlights her lack of ethical boundaries. Lydia's paranoia and nervousness often lead her to make rash decisions that put others at risk.

Despite her professional demeanor, Lydia's actions reveal a deeply flawed moral character. She prioritizes her own interests above all else, even at the expense of innocent lives.

Lydia's involvement in the drug trade and her readiness to resort to violence place her firmly on the darker end of the moral spectrum among Breaking Bad characters.

11) Jane Margolis

Jane Margolis enters the Breaking Bad universe as Jesse Pinkman's landlord and love interest. Initially working to overcome her drug addiction, Jane's moral compass takes a sharp turn upon meeting Jesse.

Her relapse into heroin use marks the beginning of her ethical decline. Jane's actions become increasingly self-serving and destructive as her addiction worsens.

She manipulates Jesse and enables his drug use, prioritizing her own desires over his well-being. Jane's moral judgment further deteriorates when she attempts to blackmail Walter White.

Her willingness to exploit others for personal gain reveals a significant lapse in ethical standards. Jane's choices not only harm herself but also have devastating consequences for those around her.

While Jane's struggles with addiction evoke sympathy, her actions demonstrate a compromised moral compass. Her character serves as a cautionary tale about the corrosive effects of drug addiction on personal ethics.

12) Tuco Salamanca

Tuco Salamanca stands out as one of the most volatile and unpredictable characters in Breaking Bad. As a high-ranking member of the Juárez Cartel, he operates with a complete disregard for human life.

Tuco's moral compass is severely skewed, driven by his extreme violence and erratic behavior. He shows no hesitation in brutally assaulting or killing those who cross him, even for minor infractions.

His drug addiction further fuels his unstable nature, making him a constant threat to everyone around him. Tuco's loyalty extends only to his family, particularly his elderly uncle Hector.

Despite his position in the drug trade, Tuco lacks the calculated approach of other criminals. He acts on impulse, prioritizing immediate gratification over long-term strategy.

While Tuco possesses a twisted sense of honor, it does little to temper his ruthlessness. His brief but impactful presence in the series exemplifies the dangers of the criminal underworld Walt and Jesse enter.

13) Hector Salamanca

Hector Salamanca stands as one of the most morally corrupt characters in Breaking Bad. His influence extends far beyond his on-screen presence, shaping the criminal landscape of the show.

As a high-ranking member of the Juárez Cartel, Hector's actions have far-reaching consequences. He is responsible for numerous murders and plays a key role in the drug trade that devastates communities.

Hector's cruelty is evident in his treatment of others, including his own family members. He instills a ruthless mindset in the younger Salamancas, perpetuating a cycle of violence and criminality.

Even after becoming disabled, Hector's malevolence persists. He maintains his fierce loyalty to the cartel and his hatred for his enemies, particularly Gus Fring.

Hector's lack of remorse for his actions and his unwavering commitment to the criminal underworld solidify his position as one of the least morally redeemable characters in the series.

Moral Complexity in Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad explores the blurred lines between right and wrong through its characters' evolving motivations and ethical quandaries. The show presents a world where morality is rarely black and white.

Character Development

Walter White's transformation from mild-mannered teacher to ruthless drug kingpin exemplifies Breaking Bad's nuanced approach to morality. Initially motivated by providing for his family, Walt's actions become increasingly self-serving and destructive.

Jesse Pinkman evolves in the opposite direction. He starts as a small-time drug dealer but develops a stronger moral compass as the series progresses. His struggles with guilt and attempts at redemption highlight the show's complex moral landscape.

Skyler White's moral journey is equally compelling. She transitions from an innocent bystander to an active participant in Walt's criminal enterprise, wrestling with the consequences of her choices.

Ethical Dilemmas

Breaking Bad constantly challenges viewers with difficult ethical questions. Is it acceptable to commit crimes for the greater good? At what point do noble intentions become corrupted?

The show explores these dilemmas through scenarios like Walt manufacturing drugs to secure his family's financial future or Hank pursuing justice at the expense of his personal relationships.

Characters often face impossible choices. Jesse's decision to kill Gale to save Walt, despite his aversion to violence, epitomizes these moral predicaments. Such moments force viewers to grapple with their own ethical boundaries.

The series also examines the ripple effects of immoral actions. Seemingly small compromises lead to dire consequences, blurring the line between victim and perpetrator.

Impact of Environment on Morality

Breaking Bad's characters navigate complex moral landscapes shaped by their surroundings. The harsh realities of Albuquerque and the dangerous drug trade create an environment that tests and often corrupts their ethical standards.

Influence of Albuquerque Setting

Albuquerque's stark desert landscape mirrors the moral wasteland many characters inhabit. The city's economic struggles push Walter White to desperate measures, justifying his initial foray into meth production.

The contrast between affluent and impoverished neighborhoods highlights societal inequalities, influencing characters' choices. Jesse Pinkman's background in a middle-class family clashes with his involvement in the drug scene, creating inner turmoil.

Albuquerque's proximity to the Mexican border introduces additional pressures and temptations. The ease of cross-border criminal activities blurs ethical lines for characters like Hank Schrader, who faces corruption within law enforcement.

Pressures of the Drug Trade

The methamphetamine business exposes characters to extreme violence and moral compromise. Walter White's transformation from a mild-mannered teacher to a ruthless drug lord exemplifies the corrosive effect of this environment.

Financial incentives tempt characters to overlook ethical concerns. Skyler White, initially opposed to her husband's activities, gradually becomes complicit as she sees the monetary benefits.

The constant threat of rival gangs and law enforcement creates a pressure cooker environment. Characters like Mike Ehrmantraut justify their actions as necessary for survival, blurring the lines between right and wrong.

The drug trade's hierarchical structure forces characters to make difficult choices. Lower-level dealers like Badger and Skinny Pete face exploitation, while those higher up like Gus Fring must maintain control through increasingly unethical means.