Soap Opera History

Bryan Cranston Facts: Celebrities Who Started on Soaps

Published by

Shado Saeyang

5 years ago

Bryan Cranston is best known for his work as Hal on Malcolm in the Middle and Walter White on Breaking Bad, but the actor has also made a name for himself in the film and theater world. He also appeared in soaps.

Cranston also starred in movies such as Saving Private Ryan, Little Miss Sunshine, Argo, Godzilla, and Trumbo. From where he was born and raised to how he got the role in Breaking Bad, here are five fast facts about the actor.

Who Is Bryan Cranston?

Cranston was born on March 7 in Hollywood, California and both of his parents were actors. He was raised partly by his grandparents in Yucaipa, California and graduated from Canoga Park High School. He then earned his associate’s degree in police science from Los Angeles Valley College with the hope of one day becoming a cop.

Soap Beginnings
Cranston was part of the original cast of the ABC soap opera Loving, where he played Douglas Donovan. His love interest was Merrill, played by Patricia Kalember (who went on to star on Sisters). He was on the show for two years. He also played Dean on One Life to Live.

The X-Files To The Rescue
Cranston was absolutely incredible as Walter White in Breaking Bad, but he was very close to not getting the part. Both John Cusack and Matthew Broderick were offered the role first, but they turned it down. Producers were then afraid Cranston couldn’t pull off the character because of his work on Malcolm in the Middle as a father, but they were shown an episode of The X-Files in which Cranston played a racist. The producers ultimately changed their minds and realized he could do the part.

Statues and Records

After winning four Emmy Awards for Breaking Bad, he tied the record of Dennis Franz (NYPD Blue) for the most wins in the category of Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. He has also won a Golden Globe Award and a few Screen Actors Guild Awards. Cranston was also nominated for an Oscar for his titular role in Trumbo.

Getting Personal With Bryan Cranston
Cranston was married to writer Mickey Middleton from 1977 to 1982. He then married actress Robin Dearden (ex-Kate, Generations) on July 8, 1989. They have a daughter named Taylor, who was born on February 12, 1993.