14 Breaking Bad Supporting Characters Ranked

From Skyler to Skinny Pete

Breaking Bad captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and complex characters. While Walter White and Jesse Pinkman took center stage, the show's supporting cast played a crucial role in bringing the world of Albuquerque's drug trade to life.

From law enforcement officials to rival drug dealers, Breaking Bad's supporting characters added depth and nuance to the series. These characters ranged from morally ambiguous anti-heroes to ruthless villains, each leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Their interactions with the main protagonists shaped the narrative and contributed to the show's exploration of moral decay and the consequences of one's choices.

1) Hank Schrader

Hank Schrader is a pivotal supporting character in Breaking Bad. As Walter White's brother-in-law and a dedicated DEA agent, Hank brings a complex dynamic to the series.

Initially portrayed as a boisterous and macho figure, Hank's character evolves significantly throughout the show. His unwavering commitment to law enforcement and his pursuit of the elusive Heisenberg demonstrate his professional tenacity.

Hank's relationship with Walt forms a central tension in the series. Their contrasting personalities and secret cat-and-mouse game add depth to both characters.

As the story progresses, Hank faces personal challenges that test his resolve. His recovery from a near-fatal attack and his determination to solve the Heisenberg case showcase his resilience and dedication.

Hank's sharp investigative skills and intuition make him a formidable opponent for Walt. His gradual piecing together of the Heisenberg puzzle creates some of the show's most intense moments.

The character of Hank Schrader brings a moral counterweight to the series, representing the law in a world increasingly dominated by criminal elements.

2) Gustavo Fring

Gustavo Fring stands out as one of Breaking Bad's most formidable antagonists. His calm demeanor and business acumen mask a ruthless drug lord operating beneath the surface.

Fring's public persona as the owner of Los Pollos Hermanos restaurant chain provides the perfect cover for his illicit activities. His meticulous attention to detail and strategic thinking make him a worthy adversary for Walter White.

Giancarlo Esposito's portrayal brings depth to the character, balancing Fring's cordial public face with his cold, calculating nature. His ability to switch between these personas seamlessly adds to the character's menace.

Fring's backstory in Chile and his vendetta against the cartel add layers to his motivations. His patient approach to revenge demonstrates his long-term planning and willingness to bide his time.

The character's influence extends beyond Breaking Bad, playing a significant role in the prequel series Better Call Saul. This further exploration of Fring's past cements his status as a key figure in the Breaking Bad universe.

3) Mike Ehrmantraut

Mike Ehrmantraut is a former Philadelphia police officer turned hitman and fixer. His no-nonsense attitude and professional demeanor make him a formidable presence in the Breaking Bad universe.

Mike's skills as a problem solver and his loyalty to his employers set him apart. He serves as a right-hand man to both Gus Fring and Saul Goodman, showcasing his versatility and reliability.

Despite his criminal activities, Mike maintains a strong moral code. He values family above all else, particularly his granddaughter Kaylee, for whom he strives to provide a secure future.

Mike's relationship with Jesse Pinkman adds depth to his character. He becomes a mentor figure to Jesse, offering guidance and protection when needed.

His pragmatic approach to the drug business often puts him at odds with Walter White. Mike's experience and caution contrast sharply with Walt's impulsive and ego-driven decisions.

Mike's backstory reveals a complex past, including his involvement in corrupt police activities. This history informs his current actions and adds layers to his character.

4) Saul Goodman

Saul Goodman, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk, is a fan-favorite supporting character in Breaking Bad. As Walter White and Jesse Pinkman's criminal lawyer, Saul brings a unique blend of humor and resourcefulness to the series.

His quick wit and legal maneuvering often help the protagonists navigate difficult situations. Saul's colorful personality and memorable catchphrases make him stand out among the show's cast.

The character's popularity led to the creation of the spin-off series "Better Call Saul," which explores his backstory and transformation from Jimmy McGill to Saul Goodman. This prequel further solidified Saul's importance in the Breaking Bad universe.

Saul's connections in the criminal underworld prove invaluable to Walt and Jesse throughout the series. His knowledge of money laundering and ability to find creative solutions to complex problems make him an essential ally.

Despite his often unethical practices, Saul maintains a certain charm that endears him to viewers. His survival instincts and adaptability allow him to navigate the dangerous world of drug trafficking while maintaining his distinct style.

5) Skyler White

Skyler White, portrayed by Anna Gunn, is a complex and controversial character in Breaking Bad. As Walter White's wife, she initially appears as a typical suburban mother and bookkeeper.

Skyler's role evolves dramatically throughout the series. She becomes increasingly involved in Walt's criminal activities, showcasing her intelligence and resourcefulness.

Her character arc is marked by moral dilemmas and difficult decisions. Skyler struggles to protect her family while grappling with the consequences of her husband's actions.

Anna Gunn's performance earned her critical acclaim and two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Her portrayal effectively captured Skyler's internal conflicts and emotional depth.

Skyler's relationship with viewers was often contentious. Some fans criticized her for opposing Walt's actions, while others appreciated her as a voice of reason and morality in the show.

Despite the mixed reception, Skyler White remains a crucial element of Breaking Bad's narrative. Her character adds complexity to the story and serves as a counterpoint to Walter White's descent into criminality.

6) Marie Schrader

Marie Schrader, Skyler White's sister and Hank's wife, plays a significant supporting role in Breaking Bad. Her character brings a mix of humor and tension to the show's darker themes.

Marie works as a radiologic technologist and struggles with kleptomania throughout the series. This compulsion to shoplift creates conflict within her family and adds depth to her character.

Despite her flaws, Marie is fiercely loyal to her loved ones. She supports Hank through his recovery after a shooting and stands by Skyler during difficult times.

Marie's relationship with her brother-in-law Walt is complex. She initially admires him but grows suspicious as the series progresses. Her intuition about Walt's true nature adds an interesting dynamic to family interactions.

As events unfold, Marie becomes more assertive and involved in the main storyline. Her character development showcases the impact of Walt's actions on extended family members.

Marie's distinctive purple wardrobe and home decor serve as visual cues, reinforcing her unique personality within the Breaking Bad universe.

7) Walter White Jr.

Walter White Jr., also known as Flynn, is the son of Walter and Skyler White. He plays a significant role in Breaking Bad as a bridge between Walt's family life and criminal activities.

Born with cerebral palsy, Walt Jr. faces physical challenges but maintains a positive outlook. He idolizes his father in the early seasons, unaware of Walt's secret life as a methamphetamine manufacturer.

As the series progresses, Walt Jr.'s relationship with his father becomes strained. He struggles to understand the changes in his family dynamic and his parents' deteriorating marriage.

Walt Jr.'s character brings moments of normalcy and humanity to the show. His presence often reminds Walter White of his initial motivations for entering the drug trade - providing for his family.

In later seasons, Walt Jr. becomes more assertive and independent. He confronts his father about his lies and ultimately rejects him upon learning the truth about his criminal activities.

Walt Jr.'s journey throughout the series highlights the collateral damage of Walter White's choices on his family. His character serves as a poignant reminder of the innocence lost in the wake of his father's transformation into Heisenberg.

8) Jesse Pinkman

Jesse Pinkman is a central character in Breaking Bad, serving as Walter White's former student and partner in the methamphetamine business. Initially portrayed as a small-time drug dealer, Jesse evolves into a complex and sympathetic figure throughout the series.

Aaron Paul's portrayal of Jesse earned him critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards. His character's journey from a directionless youth to a man grappling with the consequences of his choices resonated with viewers.

Jesse's relationship with Walt is a cornerstone of the show, shifting from mentor-protégé to a more complicated dynamic. His moral struggles and attempts to break free from the drug world provide some of the most compelling storylines.

Despite his involvement in criminal activities, Jesse often displays a softer side. His interactions with children and his genuine care for others set him apart from many of the show's harder characters.

Jesse's catchphrases and mannerisms became iconic elements of Breaking Bad. His emotional depth and capacity for growth make him one of the most memorable supporting characters in television history.

9) Lydia Rodarte-Quayle

Lydia Rodarte-Quayle is a memorable supporting character in Breaking Bad. She serves as an executive at Madrigal Electromotive GmbH and becomes involved in Walt's drug empire.

Lydia's nervous and paranoid demeanor sets her apart from other characters. She constantly fears for her safety and takes extreme precautions, such as meeting in unusual locations.

Despite her anxious nature, Lydia proves to be a shrewd businesswoman. She utilizes her corporate connections to expand the methamphetamine distribution network internationally.

Lydia's fastidious personality extends to her personal habits. She insists on a specific type of tea and sweetener, which ultimately plays a role in her downfall.

As the series progresses, Lydia becomes increasingly ruthless. She orders hits on people she perceives as threats, showing a calculating side beneath her anxious exterior.

Laura Fraser portrays Lydia with a mix of nervous energy and cold determination. Her performance adds depth to the character, making Lydia a unique and significant presence in the later seasons of Breaking Bad.

10) Jane Margolis

Jane Margolis enters the Breaking Bad universe as Jesse Pinkman's landlord and love interest. Her character adds depth to Jesse's storyline and introduces new complications to the plot.

Jane is portrayed as a recovering heroin addict who relapses after meeting Jesse. Their relationship quickly intensifies, leading to a downward spiral of drug use for both characters.

Krysten Ritter's portrayal of Jane brings a captivating mix of vulnerability and determination to the role. Her artistic talents and sharp wit make her a memorable presence during her time on screen.

Jane's influence on Jesse is significant, as she encourages him to stand up for himself and demand his fair share of profits from Walter White. This dynamic shifts the power balance within the show's central relationships.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Jane's death serve as a pivotal moment in Breaking Bad. Her fate becomes a turning point for multiple characters, particularly Jesse and Walter, and continues to have repercussions throughout the series.

11) Tuco Salamanca

Tuco Salamanca stands out as one of Breaking Bad's most volatile and unpredictable characters. His explosive temper and erratic behavior make him a formidable early antagonist for Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.

As the first major drug distributor the duo encounters, Tuco sets a high bar for danger and instability. His violent outbursts and manic energy create palpable tension in every scene he appears in.

Tuco's brief but impactful presence leaves a lasting impression on both the characters and viewers. His brutal beating of his own henchman No-Doze demonstrates the depths of his volatility and cruelty.

Raymond Cruz delivers a memorable performance, imbuing Tuco with a manic intensity that borders on terrifying. His catchphrase "tight tight tight!" perfectly encapsulates his frenetic personality.

Despite his relatively short screen time, Tuco's influence on the story extends far beyond his appearances. His actions set in motion events that shape the entire series, making him a crucial figure in Breaking Bad's narrative.

12) Hector Salamanca

Hector Salamanca stands as one of Breaking Bad's most memorable supporting characters. Despite his limited mobility and speech, he commands a powerful presence throughout the series.

In his prime, Hector was a feared figure in the drug cartel. Flashbacks reveal his ruthless nature and the respect he commanded within the criminal underworld.

Hector's condition in the present timeline adds complexity to his character. Confined to a wheelchair and communicating only through a bell, he still manages to convey a range of emotions and intentions.

His rivalry with Gus Fring forms a crucial subplot in the series. This long-standing feud culminates in one of the show's most explosive moments, quite literally.

Hector's portrayal by Mark Margolis is particularly noteworthy. With minimal dialogue, Margolis effectively conveys Hector's menace, frustration, and determination through facial expressions and body language.

The character's impact extends beyond Breaking Bad into its prequel series, Better Call Saul. This further exploration of Hector's past adds depth to his role in the Breaking Bad universe.

13) Gale Boetticher

Gale Boetticher stands out as one of the more unique supporting characters in Breaking Bad. A highly educated chemist with a passion for science, Gale brings a different energy to the show's criminal underworld.

Introduced as Walter White's lab assistant, Gale's gentle demeanor and intellectual curiosity create an interesting contrast to the often violent world of meth production. His enthusiasm for chemistry and precision in his work make him an ideal partner for Walt.

Gale's quirky personality shines through in his love of Walt Whitman poetry and his talent for brewing the perfect cup of coffee. These traits help humanize him and make him more relatable to viewers.

Despite his involvement in the drug trade, Gale maintains a certain innocence and naivety. He seems unaware of the darker aspects of the business, focusing instead on the purity of the product and the chemistry involved.

Gale's presence in the show serves to highlight Walter White's moral decline. The stark difference between Gale's idealism and Walt's growing ruthlessness becomes increasingly apparent as the series progresses.

14) Todd Alquist

Todd Alquist is one of the most unsettling characters in Breaking Bad. He appears in the final season as a seemingly harmless and polite young man working for a pest control company.

Todd's true nature is revealed when he calmly shoots a child witness without hesitation. This shocking act demonstrates his cold and calculated approach to crime.

Despite his mild-mannered demeanor, Todd proves to be a ruthless enforcer for his uncle Jack's neo-Nazi gang. He assists in the capture and imprisonment of Jesse Pinkman.

Todd develops an unsettling fixation on Lydia Rodarte-Quayle. He attempts to impress her while carrying out violent acts on her behalf.

Jesse Plemons delivers a chilling performance as Todd. He portrays the character's lack of empathy and moral compass with subtle yet disturbing effectiveness.

Todd's presence adds a new layer of danger to the final season. His unpredictable nature and willingness to commit atrocities make him a memorable antagonist in the Breaking Bad universe.

Character Development

Breaking Bad's supporting characters exhibit remarkable depth and evolution throughout the series. Their unique traits and pivotal roles in advancing the plot contribute significantly to the show's narrative richness.

Unique Traits of Supporting Characters

Saul Goodman stands out for his sleazy charm and legal craftiness. His colorful personality and moral flexibility make him a fan favorite. Jesse Pinkman evolves from a small-time drug dealer to a complex, emotionally tormented character. His journey of self-discovery and redemption resonates deeply with viewers.

Gus Fring's calm demeanor masks a ruthless interior. His methodical approach to the drug trade and ability to maintain a respectable public image create a chilling contrast. Hank Schrader transforms from a boisterous DEA agent to a determined, obsessed investigator as the series progresses.

Mike Ehrmantraut's cool professionalism and dry wit set him apart. His loyalty and pragmatism make him a intriguing character in the criminal underworld.

Role in Advancing Plot

Supporting characters in Breaking Bad often serve as catalysts for major plot developments. Saul Goodman introduces Walt and Jesse to the wider criminal network, expanding the scope of their operations. His connections and legal maneuvering frequently resolve seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Jesse's relationships and struggles drive many key storylines. His bond with Jane, conflict with Gus, and eventual captivity by Jack's gang create pivotal moments in the series.

Gus Fring's rivalry with Walt forms the backbone of several seasons. Their chess-like maneuvers and escalating conflict push the story to new heights of tension.

Hank's investigation serves as a constant threat to Walt's empire. His gradual uncovering of the truth propels the plot towards its climactic conclusion.

Impact on Main Storyline

Breaking Bad's supporting characters played crucial roles in shaping the show's narrative arc and influencing the decisions of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. Their actions and interactions had far-reaching consequences on the main plot.

Interactions with Main Characters

Saul Goodman's legal expertise and criminal connections significantly impacted Walt and Jesse's operations. His advice and resources helped them navigate dangerous situations and expand their drug empire. Gus Fring's ruthless business acumen challenged Walt's authority and pushed him to new extremes. Their intense rivalry became a central conflict in the series.

Hank Schrader's relentless pursuit of Heisenberg created constant tension and near-misses for Walt. His investigation drove much of the cat-and-mouse game at the heart of the show. Skyler White's evolving role from oblivious wife to reluctant accomplice added complexity to Walt's double life and moral decline.

Influence on Key Events

Mike Ehrmantraut's experience and loyalty to Gus shaped many pivotal moments. His actions during the power struggle between Walt and Gus had lasting repercussions. Jane Margolis's relationship with Jesse and subsequent death marked a turning point in both Jesse's character development and Walt's descent into darkness.

Tuco Salamanca's violent unpredictability set early stakes for Walt and Jesse's criminal endeavors. His demise led to power shifts in the drug trade. The Salamanca family's vendetta against Gus provided critical backstory and motivation for several major plot developments.

Lydia Rodarte-Quayle's international connections expanded the scope of Walt's operation in later seasons. Her involvement introduced new challenges and opportunities for the main characters.