According to an announcement by Giancarlo Esposito, he reportedly embraced Islam while working in Saudi Arabia on the film project Seven Dogs. Turki Al-Sheikh stated that Esposito recited the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, and later prayed with the production team at a mosque.
The announcement also said his decision was influenced by positive experiences in Saudi Arabia, including hospitality and a strong sense of community during filming. The news quickly spread online, with fans noting his well-known roles as Gus Fring in Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, and The Mandalorian.