How 17 years ago, Breaking Bad aired its first ever episode and sparked a cultural phenomenon worldwide

Seventeen years ago, the world was introduced to one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

Only then, it was an unknown crime drama about a mild-mannered chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin named Walter White. That series was Breaking Bad.

Stream every episode of Breaking Bad on Stan.

On January 20, 2008, Breaking Bad's first episode aptly named 'Pilot' premiered in the US. Viewers met Walter White (Bryan Cranston), whose descent into darkness captivated audiences worldwide.

The series would go on to redefine the small screen and spark a cultural phenomenon that remains as potent today as it was nearly two decades ago.

Created by Vince Gilligan, the gripping drama scooped up a slew of awards, including 16 Emmy Awards and six Critics' Choice Television Awards, just to name a few.

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More so, The Guinness World Records named it the most critically acclaimed show of all time in 2013.

During its five-year run, the series followed the story of Walter who after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, decides to take life into his own hands.

Walter resorts to selling drugs to provide for his wife and disabled teenage son, as viewers were captivated by the harrowing circumstances of his big life decision.

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To this day Breaking Bad has inspired countless memes, fan theories and even spin-off series.

So in 2013 the series finale aired, the conclusion was considered by some to be one of the greatest series finales ever.

Cranston's performance as Walter White led to four Primetime Emmy Awards and one Golden Globe, and that only meant more success for the actor.

He went on to win not one, but two, Tony awards, and received an Oscar nomination in 2015 for his portrayal of the titular character in Trumbo.

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Breaking Bad fans were thrilled to see him reprise his role as Walter White in the 2019 spin-off film El Camino, as well as the final season of Better Call Saul. 

Needless to say, Cranston has come a long way since his Malcolm In The Middle days.

So, whether you watched it and loved it, or have never seen an episode, this anniversary is the perfect excuse to jump into Walter's Breaking Bad world.

Stream every episode of Breaking Bad on Stan.

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