How Jonathan Banks’ History of Playing Tough Guys Led to the Role of Mike Ehrmantraut in ‘Breaking Bad’

Lori Dorn
August 22, 2022

Actor Jonathan Banks had a long history of playing bad guys before he played the iconic tough-guy Mike Ehrmantraut in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.

While many of his roles were guest-star or background player, Bank’s unusual looks, combined with his distinctive voice, made him the perfect person to play characters who break bad throughout his long career.

Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.