American actor Giancarlo Esposito has reportedly embraced Islam while staying in Saudi Arabia during a filming project, according to the head of the General Entertainment Authority, Turki Al-Sheikh.
Al-Sheikh said the actor recited the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, and later joined members of a production crew in prayer at a mosque.
A video shared on social media appeared to show Esposito praying alongside the team during the shoot, which is part of ongoing international productions taking place in the Kingdom.
Esposito, known globally for his role as Gus Fring in Breaking Bad as well as appearances in Better Call Saul and The Mandalorian, has built a decades-long career in film and television and has received multiple award nominations.
According to Al-Sheikh, the actor’s experience during his stay and interactions with Muslim communities contributed to his decision.
Saudi Arabia has in recent years expanded its entertainment and film sector, attracting major international productions as part of its broader cultural and economic transformation strategy.
