Anthony Hopkins, known for his roles in films like The Silence of the Lambs and The Father, praised the acting in the TV show Breaking Bad as "the best acting I have seen – ever." Hopkins, who has received numerous awards, including Academy Awards for his performances in The Silence of the Lambs and The Father, wrote a letter to Bryan Cranston after binge-watching the entire series.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hopkins watched all seasons of Breaking Bad in two weeks and then sent an email to Bryan Cranston expressing his admiration for the show. In his letter, Hopkins described the show as "brilliant," "spectacular," and "absolutely stunning." He lauded Cranston's portrayal of Walter White as "the best acting I have seen – ever" and likened the story to "a great Jacobean, Shakespearian or Greek Tragedy."

Hopkins' letter to Cranston read, in part: "I’ve just finished a marathon of watching 'BREAKING BAD' – from episode one of the First Season – to the last eight episodes of the Sixth Season... I have never watched anything like it. Brilliant! Your performance as Walter White was the best acting I have seen – ever... But this work of yours is spectacular – absolutely stunning."

Hopkins also commended the rest of the cast, stating that they all gave "master classes of performance." He specifically mentioned Anna Gunn, Dean Norris, Aaron Paul, Betsy Brandt, R.J. Mitte, Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, and Steven Michael Quezada. Hopkins acknowledged that the supporting cast, writers, directors, cinematographers, and other departments were integral to the show's brilliance.

Hopkins emphasized the impact of Breaking Bad, noting that it "restores confidence" that he had lost after decades in the entertainment industry. He saw the show as a work of art that reminded him of the potential of great television.

Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan, follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a chemistry teacher who becomes a drug kingpin after being diagnosed with cancer. The show's premise and execution have led to its recognition as one of the greatest television shows of all time.

Hopkins wrote his letter in 2013, before the debut of the spin-off series Better Call Saul. While Breaking Bad was already highly regarded, Better Call Saul further enriched its legacy. Gilligan directed multiple episodes of the show, while writers included Peter Gould, Gennifer Hutchison, George Mastras, and Thomas Schnauz. The show maintained the themes of family, transformation, and consequences.