Actor known for iconic villain role recited Shahada and prayed at mosque with production crew
Riyadh — June 21, 2026 - American actor Giancarlo Esposito, celebrated worldwide for his portrayal of the calculating drug lord Gus Fring in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, has converted to Islam during a filmmaking stint in Saudi Arabia, according to reports published Sunday.
Saudi Gazette reported that Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, announced that Esposito recited the Shahada — the Islamic declaration of faith — and joined members of a film production team in prayer at a mosque while working in the kingdom. A video circulating on social media appears to show the actor praying alongside crew members inside the mosque.
Al-Sheikh said Esposito's decision came after meaningful personal experiences during his time in Saudi Arabia, including interactions with local Muslims on set. The actor reportedly expressed gratitude for the warmth and hospitality he encountered throughout the production.
Esposito, who built his career across decades of film and television, is currently in the country filming Seven Dogs, one of several large-scale international productions being developed as Saudi Arabia aggressively expands its entertainment sector and courts global talent and studios.
Beyond his iconic villain roles, Esposito has earned wide recognition for appearances in The Mandalorian and numerous other productions, accumulating multiple award nominations over his career.
The conversion adds to a growing cultural exchange unfolding as Saudi Arabia positions itself as an emerging hub for international film and media.
Source: Anadolu Agency / Saudi Gazette