Complex, Controversial, or Compassionate:The Most Hated Character in 'Breaking Bad' Still Sparks Debate Online
Fans have long despised Skyler White.
Over the course of five gripping seasons, Breaking Bad was often hailed as one of the greatest TV dramas ever made. Across 62 episodes, one character stood out as the voice of reason amid all the chaos: Skyler White, played by Anna Gunn, the wife of the show’s main character, portrayed by Bryan Cranston.
Unfortunately, her sensible advice and level-headed approach didn’t endear her to viewers — quite the opposite. Skyler became the most hated character in Breaking Bad.
Why Fans Hated Skyler White
Viewers wanted to see Walter White as the hero, and they began to resent Skyler for standing in his way. On top of that, some fans formed social media groups dedicated to harsh criticism of her character. They accused her of hypocrisy towards Walter and claimed she didn’t deserve the life she had. Many frequently brought up her affair with Ted Beneke as further proof against her.
"Skyler spent the whole series nagging Walter, his sister, and Hank. But she did nothing herself to help the family. She just played the martyr and treated everyone like rubbish," commenters said.
Anna Gunn believes the backlash against Skyler stems from the show's structure and the role her character plays. Yet the intensity of the public’s hatred still came as a shock to her.
"My job as an actress isn’t always to play characters who make everyone happy. But you can’t help but feel that hatred," the star said.
A True Victim of Circumstance?
However, there is another perspective. Some critics argue that the hatred aimed at Skyler was unfair and misguided. They see her as a victim of circumstance — her attempts to protect her family were often mistaken for weakness or absurdity, but in reality, her character faced a choice between bad and worse.
Anna Gunn notes that by the 2020s, fan attitudes towards Skyler had softened considerably. Many viewers revisiting the show now say Skyler has become their moral compass and the backbone of the series.
