A Breaking Bad writer has shared the one actor they would have swapped out from the iconic series, with a major star having been the first choice for one key role.
Veteran writer Thomas Schnauz, who boasts an impressive portfolio including Better Call Saul, Man in the High Castle, and X-Files, left fans of the Bryan Cranston-fronted show stunned after disclosing the original casting preference for a minor yet pivotal character.
The revelation sent shockwaves through the fanbase, with many now branding the potential casting "nuts" while others lamented the actor initially picked for the role would have been "perfect."
In a post to the social media app, Schnauz said Werner Herzog had been considered for the role of minor antagonist Peter Schuler. He wrote: "We hoped he would play the head of Madrigal (Schuler) in Breaking Bad, but we couldn't get him."
Ultimately, the role of the Madrigal executive went to Norbert Weisser, who appeared in the episode 'Madrigal' and is known for his roles in Schindler's List, Hocus Pocus, and The Laundromat.
Despite missing out on Breaking Bad, 82-year-old Herzog was far from idle during that same period, featuring in an episode of Parks and Recreation and Star Wars spin-off, The Mandalorian. Breaking Bad enthusiasts were left buzzing over the thought of Herzog joining the iconic series, as evidenced by the reactions to Schnauz's tweet.
One fan wrote: "Wow! He would have been perfect! No offense to Norbert Weisser, who did a great job. But Werner Herzog is SO charismatic! " Another added: "This is an absolute crazy revelation, but my goodness would've Herzog been perfect..." And a third commented: "That would've been nuts."
The show has already surprised viewers with its unconventional casting choices, roping in comedians for serious parts across its six seasons. Bill Burr and DJ Qualls made appearances, while Bryan Cranston, who portrayed the lead character Walter White, was known for his comedic role on Malcolm in the Middle before Breaking Bad.
Cranston's casting was the handiwork of Vince Gilligan, who had previously collaborated with him during his time writing for The X-Files, but it very nearly went to a different comedy star.
It comes as Cranston previously revealed the potential household names who could have played the lead role instead of him. In an interview with SiriusXM, Cranston confirmed Matthew Broderick, of Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Election fame, had been in the running for the role of Walter White. John Cusack, best known for High Fidelity, was also offered the role. Cusack went on to tweet about being offered the role, denying he had turned it down in favour of another project.
English (US) ·