Representation in Breaking Bad

When it comes to representation in media, “Breaking Bad” is a masterclass in using characters to reflect and critique different aspects of society. I want to look at two characters, Walter White and Gus Fring.

Walter White’s character starts as the ultimate representation of the average, unremarkable man, a high school chemistry teacher who’s struggling to make ends meet. In terms of selections/stereotypes, the choice to portray Walter as a middle-aged, white, educated man who feels powerless in his personal and professional life plays into a classic stereotype: the "everyman” figure. In the beginning, we relate to him. He’s the guy struggling under capitalism, underappreciated by his students and family, and dealing with a health crisis. But as time passes, we see him transition from Walter White to Heisenberg, becoming a villain.

Second, when looking at construction, Walter's descent into crime is often shown with exaggerated visuals. Walter, the once innocent teacher, stands in his underwear, cooking meth in the middle of the desert. The way his environment and outfits shift reflects the show’s representation of how the ordinary can become extraordinary under the right conditions. The desert setting, in particular, acts as an “exotic” backdrop, turning his transformation into a spectacle.

Gus Fring is another character that’s rich for analysis when it comes to representation. He is one of the most compelling villains in television history, and his representation is developed in 3 key ways. First, through decentering. Gus is a Black Latino man running a successful fried chicken franchise as a front for his drug empire. The show deliberately makes him a character that breaks stereotypes. Rather than portraying him as a loud, flashy drug lord, Gus is calculated, quiet, and strategic. These are qualities that contrast against the stereotypical representation of minority criminals, de-centering the traditional portrayal of crime in media.

However, while Gus is a unique character in many ways, he still fits the stereotype of the charismatic villain. The show selects specific elements, like his polished demeanor and respect for his employees, to make him an intriguing, almost admirable character. This selection process makes his downfall even more dramatic, emphasizing the message that power and success come at a cost.

Finally, Gus’s background is shrouded in mystery, particularly his past in Chile. By not fully revealing his history, the show exoticizes his character. His composed demeanor and sophisticated style are contrasted with the gritty world of drug trafficking, which adds an element of fascination around him.