Breaking Bad: A Descent into the Criminal Underworld AMC's Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan, chronicles the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with stage-three lung cancer. Faced with financial ruin and a looming death sentence, White embarks on a perilous journey into the methamphetamine trade, partnering with former student Jesse Pinkman. The series, set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, follows White's descent into the criminal underworld, navigating treacherous alliances and escalating dangers. His family—wife Skyler, son Walter Jr., and Skyler's sister Marie and husband Hank (a DEA agent)—are caught in the devastating fallout of his choices. Supporting characters include lawyer Saul Goodman, private investigator Mike Ehrmantraut, and drug kingpin Gus Fring, each contributing to the complex narrative. Later seasons introduce Todd Alquist and Lydia Rodarte-Quayle, further complicating the already volatile situation. Premiering in 2008 and concluding in 2013, Breaking Bad garnered critical acclaim across its five seasons, earning numerous awards, including multiple Emmys, Golden Globes, and Peabody Awards. Its cast delivered powerful performances, praised for their depth and realism. Initially enjoying moderate viewership, the show experienced a surge in popularity with its Netflix release and the final season. Breaking Bad's impact extended beyond its initial run, spawning the prequel series Better Call Saul and the sequel film El Camino, solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in television. In 2023, Rotten Tomatoes critics ranked it the best TV series of the last 25 years.