Remembering the Cast of Breaking Bad Who Passed Away
The television series Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the greatest shows in history, known for its intense storytelling and unforgettable characters. However, some of the actors who brought these characters to life have passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans. From iconic villains to minor but memorable roles, these actors contributed significantly to the show’s success.
Mark Margolis (Hector Salamanca)
Mark Margolis, best known for his role as Hector Salamanca in Breaking Bad, was one of the most prominent cast members to pass away. He played the deaf and mute drug kingpin, whose dramatic death in season 4 was a pivotal moment in the series. Margolis had a long career in television and film, appearing in movies like Scarface and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. His final role was in Bryan Cranston’s Your Honor.
Born in Philadelphia, Margolis died in New York City on August 3, 2023, at the age of 83. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and son, Morgan.
Robert Forster (Ed Gailbraith)
Robert Forster, who played Ed “The Disappearer” Gailbraith in Breaking Bad, had a career spanning over five decades. His role as a fugitive identity provider was one of his most famous performances. Forster also appeared in Twin Peaks: The Return and was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Jackie Brown.
He was born in Rochester, New York, and died in Los Angeles on October 11, 2019, at the age of 78. Interestingly, he passed away on the same day that El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie was released, which he starred in.
James Ning (Duane Chow)
James Ning played Duane Chow, the owner of Golden Moth Chemical, in Breaking Bad. Though his role was small, it was significant in the show’s storyline. Ning had a modest acting career, with notable credits including The Ridiculous 6.
Born in Shanghai, China, Ning died in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the age of 86. The cause of his death remains unknown.
Mike Batayeh (Dennis Markowski)
Mike Batayeh portrayed Dennis Markowski, the manager of a laundromat used as a meth lab cover. His character was famously burned alive in prison by Walter White. Batayeh also appeared in other TV shows and films, including It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
He was born in Detroit, Michigan, and died there on June 1, 2023, at the age of 52. His family initially reported a heart attack, but the medical examiner later confirmed that he took his own life.
David House (Dr. Delacolvi)
David House played Dr. Delacolvi, Walter White’s oncologist in the first two seasons of Breaking Bad. He also had roles in other TV shows and was a radio personality in Albuquerque. House passed away from a brain tumor on November 27, 2016, at the age of 57.
Wolf Muser (Herr Herzog)
Wolf Muser played Herr Herzog, the CEO of Madrigal Electromotive GmbH, in Breaking Bad. His role was brief but impactful. Muser had a successful career in television, including a role in The Man in the High Castle. He passed away in March 2022 at the age of 71.
Michael Showers (Union Rep)
Michael Showers appeared as an unnamed union representative in Breaking Bad. He had minor roles in other TV shows, including The Vampire Diaries. Tragically, he drowned in the Mississippi River in 2011 at the age of 45.
Isaac Kappy (Rowdy Prisoner)
Isaac Kappy played a rowdy prisoner in Breaking Bad. He also appeared in Fanboys and the first Thor movie. Kappy died by suicide in 2019 at the age of 42.
Saginaw Grant (Native American Man)
Saginaw Grant had a small but meaningful role in the Breaking Bad episode “Ozymandias,” where Hank Schrader was killed. He had a long acting career, appearing in shows like My Name Is Earl and American Horror Story. He also served as a Hereditary Chief of the Sac and Fox Nation.
Grant passed away peacefully in 2021 at the age of 85.
Shari Rhodes (Bingo Lady)
Shari Rhodes, though not an actor, played a crucial role as a location casting director on Breaking Bad. She worked on iconic films like Jaws and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Her only acting credit was in Breaking Bad, where she played the Bingo Lady.
Rhodes died from breast cancer in 2009 at the age of 71. Her episode aired posthumously, and she was honored in the credits.
