American television star recited the Shahada and joined production team in mosque prayers
Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) By Staff Writer| June 21, 2026 - American actor Giancarlo Esposito, widely recognized for his acclaimed portrayal of the calculating drug lord Gustavo "Gus" Fring in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, has converted to Islam during a filmmaking stay in Saudi Arabia, according to reports published Sunday.
Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, confirmed the news, stating that Esposito recited the Shahada — the Islamic declaration of faith — and participated in communal prayers at a mosque alongside members of his production team. A video circulating on social media appeared to show the actor praying with crew members inside the mosque.
Al-Sheikh attributed Esposito's decision to the actor's personal experiences in the kingdom, citing meaningful interactions with Muslims during the production and his expressed admiration for the warmth and hospitality he encountered there.
Esposito, 67, has maintained a prolific career spanning decades in Hollywood, earning widespread recognition and multiple award nominations for his work. Beyond his signature role as Gus Fring, he is also known to audiences through his appearances in The Mandalorian and numerous other film and television projects.
The actor is currently in Saudi Arabia filming Seven Dogs, one of several major international productions now being developed in the kingdom as part of its broader push to grow its entertainment and film industries and attract global talent.
Saudi Arabia has in recent years significantly expanded its cultural and entertainment sector, with high-profile international collaborations becoming increasingly common as the country works to position itself as a destination for major productions.
Sources: Anadolu Agency, Saudi Gazette