Steve Zahn rejects claim he was considered to play Walter White

Collider reports that Steve Zahn has disputed long-running claims he was seriously considered to play Walter White on Breaking Bad. The story traces back to Bryan Cranston’s 2016 memoir A Life in Parts, and Cranston has repeated versions of the claim in interviews, saying network hesitation over his Malcolm in the Middle image nearly cost him the role.

When The Hollywood Reporter recently asked Zahn if there had been a shortlist or back-and-forth about him playing Walter White, Zahn replied, "No." He laughed when told Cranston had made the claim multiple times and said, "Oh, really!? Cranston is so awesome, but I find that hard to believe. I think Cranston is lying!" Zahn joked he plans to confront Cranston in person and noted both actors are currently working in London. Whether that conversation happens remains to be seen, and Zahn said he has no memory of being in serious contention for the part.

At the Anaconda junket, Steve Weintraub caught up with Zahn and co-star Thandiwe Newton, where Zahn confirmed he is working on Silo Seasons 3 and 4: "Yes. We're almost done. I'm almost done. I flew here yesterday." Zahn said Season 3 is still in post with no premiere date announced by Apple TV, and that Season 4 is currently in production and "it's the biggest show," with extensive visual effects and more action. Silo is on Apple TV now.

Key Topics

Culture, Steve Zahn, Bryan Cranston, Walter White, Breaking Bad, Silo