American actor Giancarlo Esposito, known for his role as Gus Fring in the television series Breaking Bad, has embraced Islam during a stay in Saudi Arabia, media reports have said. Saudi Gazette reported that General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Al-Sheikh said Esposito recited the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, and joined members of a production team in prayer at a mosque while filming in the kingdom.

According to Al-Sheikh, the actor’s decision followed positive experiences during his time in Saudi Arabia and interactions with Muslims while working on a production in the country. He also said Esposito expressed appreciation for the community and hospitality he encountered during filming. A video shared on social media showed the actor praying alongside members of the production team inside a mosque, the report said.

Esposito has built a decades-long career in film and television and is also known for his performances in Better Call Saul, The Mandalorian, and other productions.