Giancarlo Esposito, renowned for his roles in “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul,” and “The Mandalorian,” has revealed a deeply personal and distressing period in his life when he contemplated plotting his own murder to secure financial stability for his family. This revelation came during an interview on Sirius XM’s “Jim & Sam Show,” where Esposito discussed his financial struggles leading up to his breakthrough role in “Breaking Bad”.
In 2008, Esposito was close to bankruptcy, having gone through two bankruptcies and a foreclosure on his home. His financial situation was so dire that he considered hiring someone to kill him, hoping that his family would receive a life insurance payout. This idea was sparked by his ex-wife, Joy McManigal, who informed him about the complexities of life insurance payouts upon the death of a suicide victim. Esposito’s thought process was that if he could arrange his own death, his children would inherit the insurance money, providing them with a better life.
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Giancarlo Esposito Was So Broke Before 'Breaking Bad' That He Considered Arranging His Own Murder So His Kids Could Get His Life Insurance Money https://t.co/vpJ4tY9dTk
— Variety (@Variety) April 18, 2024
Esposito’s contemplation of such a drastic measure was driven by his desperation and the belief that his family’s financial future was at risk. He expressed, “I literally thought of self-annihilation so they could survive. That’s how low I was”. Despite the temptation, Esposito ultimately decided against pursuing this plan. He realized that the emotional trauma and lifelong pain it would cause his children would far outweigh any potential financial benefits. He feared that his death would not only leave his family in a difficult situation but also perpetuate generational trauma.
Esposito’s financial struggles were a stark contrast to his current success, which began with his role as Gus Fring in “Breaking Bad.” This role marked a turning point in his career, leading to numerous other job opportunities, including “Better Call Saul,” “Dear White People,” “Godfather of Harlem,” “The Boys,” and “The Mandalorian.” His career resurgence has allowed him to provide a better life for his family, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and the potential for recovery from financial hardship.
Esposito’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and support during difficult times. It highlights the potential for personal and professional transformation, as well as the resilience of individuals who overcome significant challenges. Esposito’s journey from financial despair to becoming one of the most celebrated actors of his generation is a testament to his strength and determination.
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