Actor Giancarlo Esposito reportedly converts to Islam in Saudi Arabia
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Hollywood actor Giancarlo Esposito has reportedly converted to Islam in Saudi Arabia.
- The news was shared by Turki Al-Sheikh, head of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, on X.
- Esposito was in Riyadh filming the Saudi-backed film "7 Dogs" and was seen praying with Muslims.
Hollywood actor Giancarlo Esposito, known for his role as Gustavo Fring in "Breaking Bad," has reportedly embraced Islam.
The announcement was made by Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, via a post on X. Al-Sheikh stated that the 68-year-old actor found peace through his interactions with Muslims during his time in Saudi Arabia.
The post included images of Esposito praying in a mosque with other worshippers, alongside members of his film company and production crew. Esposito was in the country to film "7 Dogs," a large-budget action movie supported by Saudi Arabia.
Esposito has had a prolific career spanning over 40 years in film, television, and theater. He reprised his iconic role as Gus Fring in the "Breaking Bad" spin-off "Better Call Saul" and has appeared in numerous other popular productions, including "The Mandalorian," "The Boys," and "Do the Right Thing." Born in Copenhagen to an Italian father and an African-American mother, Esposito's family later settled in Manhattan. His portrayal of the ruthless drug lord Gus Fring earned him critical acclaim, including a Critics' Choice Award and multiple Emmy nominations.
He found peace through his interactions with Muslims and the treatment he received.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.