Bryan Cranston, widely recognized for his iconic role as Walter White in “Breaking Bad,” has often reflected on the benefits of his fame arriving later in life. Cranston believes that this timing helped him avoid “one of the traps in being a celebrity,” which is the overwhelming pressure and potential pitfalls associated with early stardom. By the time he gained widespread recognition, he had already established a strong sense of self, grounded by years of experience in the industry.
Cranston’s earlier years were marked by steady, if not headline-grabbing, work in television, such as his role as Hal in “Malcolm in the Middle.” This gradual ascent allowed him to develop both his craft and his personal identity without the intense scrutiny that young stars often face. When “Breaking Bad” catapulted him to A-list status, Cranston was able to navigate the challenges of fame with a level head, maintaining a balanced perspective on his career and personal life. In essence, Cranston credits the delayed arrival of his celebrity status with helping him stay true to himself, avoiding the common traps of ego and excess that can derail those thrust into the spotlight too soon.
