‘Breaking Bad’ helps raise money, gets honored

It’s been a bittersweet time for Bryan Cranston and the cast of “Breaking Bad.”

After a successful six-year run with the critically acclaimed series, it’s coming to a close at the end of March.
“We are beginning to say goodbye to the characters that we have become to love,” Cranston said during an event at Albuquerque Studios, where the series is filmed. “It’s been a great run and Albuquerque and the fans have been great to all of us.”

The event at the studio was to honor the series as well as give thanks to the community.

Cranston, along with Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn, RJ Mitte, Steven Michael Quezada and others were on hand to sign autographs for the winners of the Albuquerque Studios sponsored event benefitting Youth Development, Inc.

The fundraiser raised $28,620 for YDI, Inc.

A raffle took place and five grand prize winners were chosen on Thursday. The winners were able to tour the series set, as well as a meet and greet with the cast.

Mayor Richard Berry and other city and county dignitaries were in attendance to declare March 16 as “Breaking Bad Day.”

Paul said he is starting to feel the effects of the series coming to a close.

“I’m sure Jesse will stay with me,” he said. “The writers have done an amazing job and I can’t wait to get to the last episode.”

Gunn, a native of Santa Fe, said she’s enjoyed being able to film a series in here home state.

“The last few weeks has been difficult and there are times when I begin to cry,” she said while fanning her face to dry her eyes. “It’s been a great adventure and we all can’t wait to see it air.”