Spotlight on: Bryan Cranston
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**Bryan Cranston** is an actor known across generations, having starred in family sitcoms, kids TV shows, adult comedies, and acclaimed dramas. Over his long and varied career, he has won two Critics' Choice Movie Awards, a Drama Desk Award, six Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, an Olivier Award, five Screen Actors Guild Awards, and two Tony Awards, as well as nominations for an Oscar and a British Academy Film Award, and a Directors Guild of America Award. Making him one of the most successful, respected and recognisable figures in film, television, and theatre.
### **Who is Bryan Cranston?**
Born on 7 March 1956, in Hollywood, California, Bryan Cranston began his career in the late 1970s with small TV roles and commercial work. His ability to switch between comedy and drama has made him a familiar face to audiences of all ages. Whether playing lighthearted or deeply complex characters, Cranston brings humour, heart, and emotional depth to every performance.
### **Where have I seen him before?**
Many will remember Cranston as Hal, the well-meaning but chaotic father in the hit sitcom *Malcolm in the Middle*. The role showcased his impeccable comic timing and made him a household name. On stage, his last London appearance was in *Network* at the National Theatre, a gripping adaptation of the 1976 film. The production was a smash-hit, earning Cranston an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Play.
### **Wasn’t he in *Breaking Bad*****?**
Yes! Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White in *Breaking Bad* became a defining television role of the 21st century. As a mild-mannered chemistry teacher who turns to drug manufacturing, Cranston delivered a performance that was both unsettling and deeply compelling. The show became a global cultural phenomenon, earning him four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, solidifying his place in TV history.
### **What else have I seen him in?**
Beyond *Malcolm in the Middle* and *Breaking Bad*, Cranston has starred in a wide range of projects. His film credits include *Trumbo* - which earned him an Academy Award nomination - as well as *Argo*, *Drive*, and *Godzilla*. He’s also lent his voice to popular animated films such as *Kung Fu Panda 3* and *Isle of Dogs*, proving his appeal across genres and audiences.
### **What’s next for Bryan Cranston?**
Bryan Cranston is currently starring alongside **Paapa Essiedu** and **Marianne Jean-Baptiste** in **Ivo van Hove**’s adaptation of **Arthur Miller**’s [*All My Sons*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/play/all-my-sons-tickets). This critically acclaimed production plays at [Wyndham’s Theatre](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/wyndhams-theatre-london) until 7 March 2026, giving London theatregoers another chance to see one of television and theatre’s most familiar faces live.