AceShowbiz - Breaking Bad star Bryan Cranston recently spoke out in defense of one of the series’ most controversial characters, shedding new light on the criticism she received during the show’s run. Thirteen years after the finale of Breaking Bad, Cranston revisited the role of Skyler White, a character who attracted significant viewer dislike despite her complex situation.

Before his iconic role as Walter White, Cranston starred alongside Frankie Muniz in the early 2000s sitcom Malcolm in the Middle. Cranston played the quirky father, while Muniz portrayed Malcolm, the gifted middle child and narrator of the series. The show ran for seven seasons from 2000 to 2006, totaling 151 episodes, and recently both actors reunited to promote Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair. During this promotion, they appeared on the YouTube series Hot Ones Versus, where celebrities ask each other challenging questions while eating increasingly spicy chicken wings.

In one memorable moment, Muniz drew a question card enabling him to ask Cranston anything he wished. Seizing the opportunity, Muniz asked a question that sparked lively debate: “Better wife, Lois or Skyler?” Lois is the mother figure from Malcolm in the Middle, while Skyler is Walter White’s wife in Breaking Bad. Cranston responded thoughtfully, choosing Lois strictly from a character perspective. Muniz jokingly rolled his eyes, admitting it was an easy choice because “she loves you.”

Muniz then revealed a surprising confession. Despite enjoying Breaking Bad, he admitted with some hesitation, “I wanted to kill Skyler to make [your character’s] life easier.” He explained that Walter White’s character was so villainous that removing his wife might have simplified his narrative arc. This candid admission opened the door for Cranston to discuss the backlash faced by actress Anna Gunn, who portrayed Skyler. Cranston noted that Gunn endured considerable criticism from viewers who wanted Skyler to step back and give Walter more space.

However, Cranston defended Skyler’s role by placing her actions within the show’s harsh reality. He emphasized that Skyler was pregnant, dealing with a husband manufacturing crystal meth, and coping with the fact that people close to them had died. Cranston pointed out the unfairness of the harsh judgment aimed at Skyler, saying, “She’s pregnant, he’s making crystal methamphetamine, and people have died - and she’s the b---h.” He expressed confusion about why audiences despised her so intensely, highlighting the character’s difficult circumstances.

Since the death of Walter White in the final episode of Breaking Bad, fans have largely accepted that the story will not continue. Still, there is exciting news for fans of the series. Actor Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader in Breaking Bad, will soon release an official companion book titled Do What You’re Gonna Do: The Definitive Oral History of Breaking Bad. This book promises to deliver behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive interviews with the cast and crew, and an in-depth look at one of the show’s most acclaimed episodes.

The book will explore the making of “Ozymandias,” widely regarded as the best episode of Breaking Bad. This episode features a pivotal and emotional plotline where Hank Schrader is killed. The title of the book is inspired by Hank’s last words in the episode. Co-authored by Joe Layden, the literary companion is set to be published on November 3, 2026, marking the first official Breaking Bad publication in over four years.

Meanwhile, fans of Malcolm in the Middle have something to look forward to as well. Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair is scheduled to premiere on April 10, 2026, on Hulu and Disney+. This new installment offers fans a chance to revisit the beloved characters and relive the humor and heart of the original series.

Subscribers to newsletters covering entertainment will have access to exclusive updates about both Breaking Bad and Malcolm in the Middle. This includes behind-the-scenes stories, interviews with the cast, and revelations tied to the upcoming companion book and reboot series. Fans eager for more insider content are encouraged to subscribe to stay informed about these exciting developments.

In summary, Bryan Cranston’s recent comments provide a thoughtful defense of a divisive character, encouraging viewers to reconsider their judgments of Skyler White. At the same time, ongoing projects related to both Breaking Bad and Malcolm in the Middle promise to enrich fans’ understanding and appreciation of these iconic shows well into 2026.