This is a tricky question, as "evil" is subjective and depends on your interpretation of the characters' actions and motivations. While some characters like Walter White and Gus Fring are clearly involved in criminal activities, their motivations and the way they operate make them complex and open to debate.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most prominent characters and why they might be considered "evil":
Walter White
- His Transformation: Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with terminal cancer, initially enters the drug trade to secure his family's financial future. However, he becomes increasingly ruthless and power-hungry, eventually becoming the feared drug lord Heisenberg.
- His Actions: He is responsible for countless deaths, including those of innocent people, and displays a disregard for human life. He manipulates and betrays those close to him, including his wife, brother-in-law, and even his own son.
- His Motivations: While his initial goal was to provide for his family, his ambition and desire for control ultimately consume him. He revels in the power he wields and embraces his dark side.
Gus Fring
- His Cold Calculation: Gus Fring is a ruthless drug kingpin who operates with a calculated and methodical approach. He is known for his meticulous planning and his ability to remain calm under pressure.
- His Ruthlessness: He eliminates anyone who threatens his business, often in brutal and cold-blooded ways. His actions are driven by a relentless pursuit of profit and control.
- His Hidden Agenda: He is a complex character with a hidden past and a deep-seated desire for revenge. His motivations are not always clear, but his actions demonstrate a chilling disregard for human life.
Other Contenders
- Tuco Salamanca: This impulsive and volatile drug dealer is known for his violent outbursts and unpredictable nature. He is a threat to anyone who crosses his path.
- Hector Salamanca: Hector is a wheelchair-bound drug lord who, despite his physical limitations, is a dangerous and ruthless individual. He is known for his violent tendencies and his unwavering loyalty to his family.
- Jack Welker: Jack is the leader of a white supremacist gang that operates in the drug trade. He is a cruel and sadistic individual who is responsible for numerous atrocities.
Ultimately, the question of who is the most evil character in Breaking Bad is open to interpretation. Each of these characters has their own unique set of motivations and actions that make them compelling and disturbing in their own way.
The show itself doesn't necessarily offer a definitive answer, leaving the audience to ponder the complexities of morality and the consequences of choices.