American actor Giancarlo Esposito, known for his role as Gus Fring in Breaking Bad, has reportedly embraced Islam while filming in Saudi Arabia, according to local media reports.
Saudi Gazette reported that Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, said the actor recited the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, during a filming break and later joined members of a production crew in prayer at a mosque.
According to Al-Sheikh, the decision followed positive interactions with Muslim communities and hospitality experienced during the production of the upcoming project Seven Dogs.
The report also said a video circulating on social media showed Esposito praying alongside members of the crew inside a mosque.
Giancarlo Esposito has built a decades-long career in film and television and is widely recognized for performances in Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul and The Mandalorian.
Saudi officials said the actor is currently involved in ongoing international productions as the kingdom continues to expand its entertainment sector.
The development has drawn attention online, with social media users sharing clips and reactions to the reported conversion and participation in prayer.
Esposito, who has worked in Hollywood for more than three decades, has often spoken about his interest in diverse cultures and collaborative international projects.
Filming for Seven Dogs is part of a growing trend of international productions being hosted in Saudi Arabia under its expanding media and entertainment initiatives.
Officials involved in the project said they hope the collaboration will further strengthen the country’s position as a global filming destination.
Further details about the actor’s personal statement or official confirmation from Esposito’s representatives have not yet been independently verified at the time of reporting.
The report remains based on local media coverage and statements attributed to Saudi entertainment officials involved in the production and ongoing filming activities in Saudi Arabia