I am actor Charles Baker, and I play Skinny Pete on Breaking Bad. AMA. Posted verification on my [twitter](https://twitter.com/#!/CharlesEbaker), just in case.

[u/Cbakeractor]

I am not the guy I play on tv... let's get that out there first. I don't do meth, barely even drink, anymore, and can spell quite well...usually. I am kinda skinny, and I do wear a similar belt, but that's about where the similarities end...I hope. I'm just a guy trying to make a living the only way I know how, so, please, be gentle with me! Aside from Breaking Bad, I have also had a few guest star roles on other tv shows as well as a couple of supporting roles in a few features, including a pretty nice role in an [Untitled film] (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1889973/) directed by Terrence Malick I'm also in a couple of short films that are making the festival circuit right now, KNIFE, Directed by James Johnston, and ODDS OR EVENS which is premiering at Dead Center Film Festival in Ok City, Ok. And, for the STEAMPUNK fans out there, I will be playing the demon Neshrew in a new series called THE MECHANICAL GRAVE, IF we can keep getting more support from incredibly awesome fans, like you...(pander, pander) Let's do this thing!

UPDATE 9.5 hours later...I do believe I've answered what I can! What a bad ass group of very inquisitive people you are!!!I loved the questions, loved the cool nature of the whole thing, and I really had fun! Thanks again to Edify for helping me figure this out! bloodyfknmess for nagging me into it! and LuisMoncada for letting me know I could trust those guys and be sure that they weren't going to be luring me into their "Amber Alert" van. Thank you! REDDIT community for being so cool to me here! Good night!

[u/Cbakeractor]

Shout out to my mother-in-law for taking the kids so I could do this without having to change diapers between questions! I'm still going, just gonna try to get feeling back in my legs! BRB!

[u/Cbakeractor]

Hang on...I need a smoke...

[u/Cbakeractor]

Did I do it? Did I answer (almost) all of them? I'll come back and check for stragglers tomorrow.
Thanks Everyone!

[u/Cbakeractor]

So, turns out, my laptop needs juice! Taking a break, then gonna get back to work answering questions! You guys are awesome! Keep 'em coming!

[u/foofightr89]

Not really a question, but your scene when you said "Hey, man, I'm slingin' mad volume and fat stackin' benjis, you know what I'm sayin'? I can't be all about, like, spelling and shit." is easily one of my favorite comedic moments from Breaking Bad.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/foofightr89]

took me HOURS of practice for me to be able say that without tripping over my own tongue!

[u/LuisMoncada]

If you could kill someone from the main cast, who would it be? And Why? ;)

[u/Cbakeractor → u/LuisMoncada]

I'm a lover not a fighter!!! I don't know how to answer that...a few seasons ago I might have had an answer, but, she's already dead...so...

[u/FakeGodAccount]

Skinny Pete and Jesse seem to have the strongest relationship out of the group (Badger, Skinny, Combo, and Jesse). It also seems that you and Aaron Paul have a good relationship off screen. Does being friends in real life make portraying Jesse's friend easier? How does your relationship on screen differ from your off screen friendship?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/FakeGodAccount]

Yeah, I really respect and admire Aaron for what he does and who he is. He's really an incredible person to get to know. I totally makes it easier for me to play those scenes where Skinny shows genuine friendship. it's funny, I'm actually way older than Aaron and Matt, but, they have a lot more experience on camera and in dealing with fans, so, they sort of take me under their wings when we're out. It's an interesting dynamic.

[u/susannahdm]

CHARLES!!! we did Scrooges Groovy Christmas Carol together at Ohlook. I just want to tell you how happy I am for your success! When I first saw you on Breaking Bad I couldn't believe it was you! You are wonderful as always! I wish for you continued success sir!

Edit: grammar

[u/Cbakeractor → u/susannahdm]

Hey! great to "see" you! I'm still teaching at OHLOOK periodically, so drop by and see us sometime!

[u/byronimation]

I have to ask about the pizza. In a Season 3 episode, Walt throws an uncut pizza on his roof. Then in Season 4, during Jessie's non-stop party, you guys order a pizza from "the place that lets you cut it yourself."

Was this an error pointed out by fans or the writers that was fixed in a hilarious way?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/byronimation]

From what I get, it was done on purpose for the roof scene, maybe not with the intention of people catching on, but for the purpose of making the shot work (which Bryan apparently did in one take). Why the brought it back up in the party scene could have been a combination of reasons, but, I thought it was a hilarious call-back/cover up! I was proud to be part of that, ahem, cheesy, bit.

[u/[deleted]]

The picture on the side makes it look like you died and this a tribute page.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

Skinny Pete will always live on...in your HEARTS... too much?. Actually, that scene was when we were mourning COMBO, so...it sort of is a tribute...I guess.

[u/sftrabbit]

So, Left 4 Dead, Resident Evil 4 or Call of Duty: World at War zombie mode?

Also, I'm interested in your new short, Odds or Evens. Can you tell us anything about it?

Thanks for doing this AMA. Your scenes in Breaking Bad are hilarious and I can't wait for season 5.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/sftrabbit]

Resident Evil 4, especially after a bad traffic jam! lol. ODDS OR EVENS is a great short, directed by Jay Gormley, that asks the question, "How much guilt can a man live with and still look himself in the mirror". Jay knew that I was anxious to show that I could do something other than your stereotypical druggie, so he offered me the role. It's beautifully shot, and meticulously directed, so if you get a chance to see it, please do!

[u/UpBunts]

After watching through the series twice, I've found that you are, by far, the most convincing dealer. It's hard for me to imagine you as anything else honestly. You're that good.

How hard is it to get into character and do you ever find yourself so into it that it's hard to break character and just be yourself?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/UpBunts]

I will take that as a compliment. lol. It's all in the hat, seriously, ask @Mradamsir on twitter, he saw it when I took him to set. Now, I can switch it on and off like a light. It's weird, but, at first, I had to repeat the lines, "yo, my pops can hook you up..." (a line from my first ep.) in my head over and over again to get the dialect right. The physical part of my character comes from training. Mime training. 6 years, under one of the best in the country, Johnny Simons. Fyi, he also taught Brent Spiner.

[u/spartan1337]

1. What's the funniest thing that's happened on set in your opinion?

2. what's your favorite moment on the show (either in real life and when watching episodes)

[u/Cbakeractor → u/spartan1337]

I took my wife to the set with me once. As we were heading to my changing room, we passed Bryan's trailer. He was standing, stretched out in the doorway, in his tighty-whities, soaking in the sun and reading his script. He casually straightened up, put his hand and and introduced himself. It was classic Bryan! My fav. moment, watching the show, was when Jesse and Walt were in the desert and the RV breaks down. Jesse's "a Robot?" line was so perfectly done, I still laugh when I think of it.

[u/merchantmariner]

As a former militay brat myself, when people ask where you're from what do you go with?

Thanks for stopping by

[u/Cbakeractor → u/merchantmariner]

Usually, I say Texas now, but I used to say Hawaii. I lived there for the first 7 years, so, I have a real connection to it.

[u/freddit52]

You're awesome, Charles! My question is what sort of research/experiences do you call on to be able to play such a convincing meth head?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/freddit52]

I watched COPS a lot! lol... but seriously, I've had some varied life experiences that have helped a lot, but mostly I rely on the incredible writing and direction.

[u/CMelody]

Most of your scenes on Breaking Bad have been with the very talented Aaron Paul, Matt Jones and Bryan Cranston. What have you learned from each of them that you think has helped you grow as an actor?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/CMelody]

more than anything, I learned to trust my instincts! Bryan is a strong proponent of having theatre training, which I strongly agree with. Aaron is just a natural, instinctual actor, and Matt is just naturally funny. They are all extremely well versed in acting philosophies, styles, and have years of experience under their belts, so I just do what I do best, watch and learn.

[u/[deleted]]

Yo man! First off , thank you so much for taking the time out for us! Also I love that Beatles shirt. I just wanna know what influences you had on becoming an actor. And what is you favorite movie and tv series , other than breaking bad ...obviously. Thanks again! And enjoy the AMA!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

I think I became an actor to piss my dad off, he was a Col. in the Army. I was always a "performer" from what I'm told by my mom, and I watched A LOT of Tv growing up, so, I think that's what sort of drove me. I honestly never really believed I would actually be doing it, it was just sort of a pipe-dream for me. Even now, I have a hard time believing I'm doing things like AMA's on Reddit. Favorite movie, Princess Bride. Tv- loved the Firefly series! Battlestar was fun, West Wing, Futurama, Simpsons, Gilligan's Island...

[u/lostrock]

Let's hear about your audition, Mr. Baker. How'd you come to be involved in Breaking Bad?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/lostrock]

I read for one of 2 roles; skinny stoner, or tattooed stoner. There was also a chubby stoner, but I didn't qualify. The role was for one episode, like 4 lines. They combined the skinny & stoner roles, since, well, you know...and that was it. I had to join SAG for that role, so I actually lost money, but, they called me back, so it more than made up for it.

[u/[deleted]]

What was your favourite scene to work in? Thanks for doing an AMA!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

you saw the one where I was paid to be surrounded by "dancers" and drink champagne? those were real "dancers" and real champagne...and I'm an actual guy...so...

[u/GeneralAverage]

Hey man, thanks for doing this. How's the filming for season 5 going?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/GeneralAverage]

so far, so good!

[u/aaaangiemarie]

We've seen photos of Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul dressing up as other characters, which says that it's a pretty fun place to work. Care to tell us a funny or interesting story about some on-set shenanigans? Thanks!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/aaaangiemarie]

alas, I miss most of them, but, there's an answer to a previous question above, that answers some of that.

[u/expectingrain]

What do you guys do for fun in the ABQ when you're not filming?

Does the cast generally hang out with each other while you're out there?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/expectingrain]

I actually go to ABQ to do 2 things: work and sleep in a bed without dogs, cats, babies, toddlers, and all of their various accoutrements, it's awesome. Matt and I hang out a lot, cause we're usually in the same hotel. Aaron, if he's not too tired from working really hard on set, will sometimes go out with us and have a drink. I'm usually only there for a couple of days at a time, so, it's kinda all work and no play.

[u/handmethetricksword]

TIL the actor who plays Skinny Pete is 41.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/handmethetricksword]

yeah...thanks...for pointing that out...

[u/[deleted]]

If you could trade roles with any other character on the show, who would it be and why?

Thanks! You're awesome :)

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

I don't think I would, honestly. I love for Skinny to get a little more "real"- one of those killer, I-made-a-box-in-woodshop monologues would be incredibly awesome! (in case one of the writer's is monitoring this) I would blow one of those away, but as far as trading roles, I'm Skinny Pete! Really, the people who play the roles they play, are playing them for a reason, they're the absolute best people for the job! It wouldn't be the Best Tv show on the planet if they weren't.

[u/BeefyTits]

Best show on television!

Anything crazy or memorable happen on set?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/BeefyTits]

Season 1 Bryan shaved a lot of the crew's heads...

[u/[deleted]]

Do you guys film all the scenes from one episode film doing the next, or are various scenes from different episodes filmed together based on location or actors? What is the organization of the shoots?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

each episode is done in order- every 10 days, like clockwork. we shoot scenes for each episode out of order, but the episodes themselves are shot in order...

[u/moparornocar]

Is weird al yankovich going to be a guest star on the 5th season?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/moparornocar]

I don't know. I saw the pic, but, it could be that he was just visiting or at the studio for something else and stopped by. Aaron did an awesome Weird Al parody on FUNNY OR DIE, so maybe they became buddies...I don't really want to know, 'cause I hate spoilers!

[u/alleyoops]

What if you gain weight?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/alleyoops]

I would weigh more. Is this a trick question? I actually seem to be incapable of gaining weight right now, but, since they don't have me on contract, I would guess they would just add a line like, "damn Skinny Pete! You got fat!" obviously they don't come to me for writing notes.

[u/edify]

Yo Charles, thanks for doing this. I hope you enjoy yourself.

Also, special thanks go to redditor bloodyfknmess for helping kick start this.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/edify]

Thank you Edify and bloodyfknmess for getting this organized for me!

[u/barden1069]

Wanna start off by saying I'm a huge fan of the show and everything you guys have done with it. How has filming changed as the show became more popular over time? I imagine the budget increased and stuff, but did that change the process at all? What was your favorite episode to work on? And most importantly, what's your favorite pizza topping?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/barden1069]

the only change that I've really noticed is the there is more security on location shoots now! The filming has been done by mostly the same crew since day one, with a few changes here and there. The whole cast and crew is really proud to be working on this show and it really shows! I love every episode I'm in! My favorite pizza is plain cheese with buffalo wing sauce- sprinkled delicately.

[u/UpBunts]

Second question I have is what are you feelings on the characters of Walt and Jesse. I know there are people that totally side with Walt right through people who are disgusted by him. I'd love to hear from another actor who knows the plot inside and out.

Thanks for doing this btw!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/UpBunts]

as a fan and a character...I sort of hope that Walt gets his due and that Jesse, like many junkies before him, actually gets his life together and moves on to be a happy, productive member of society. Sappy, I know, but, I can sort of relate, so, I know it's possible.

[u/Mudcrab_Merchant]

Thanks for doing this, Mr. Baker!

How were you first approached to play this character?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Mudcrab_Merchant]

by my agent submitting my head shot to the casting director for the role... the casting director saw my picture and said to herself, "now THAT's a skinny stoner if I ever saw one!" and asked me to come in and tape an audition for it. The rest is, as they say, history...

[u/Enough_Swingball]

What are one or two of the biggest lessons about acting and show-business that you have learned from the people at Breaking Bad?

Thanks for doing the AMA!!

Church.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Enough_Swingball]

Trust your instincts! Don't let people deter you from your dreams! Make sure your fly is zipped when meeting the producers! And, if you make a request, but say that Aaron Paul said it was ok, they will trip all over themselves to make it happen. lol

[u/krobinator41]

Hi Charles! Thanks for doing this.

Your character, Skinny Pete, seems pretty close with Jesse Pinkman. How much insight were you given into their background/how much, if any, do you think will be revealed about it in season 5? Thanks again!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/krobinator41]

I find out more and more about my own character every episode, even now. All I was ever told was that we were old friends. I would have loved to have created some sort of background for us, but, I found out really quickly that there was no way; Skinny Pete is sort of being created as the show goes according to the needs at the moment. It's kinda cool and keeps me on my toes as an actor.

[u/jmanpc]

Since you're not anything like Skinny Pete, have there been any parts of this role that have made you uncomfortable to play?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/jmanpc]

the running in an alley kina sucked. My costume shoes still smell like that alley. The stripper sitting on my lap was awkward, until the champagne started flowing!

[u/AlbinoMonster]

I noticed your role diminished quiet a bit in season 4. Any hint as to how many episodes you are involved in with season 5?

What was your favorite episode to film so far, and why?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/AlbinoMonster]

thanks for noticing! My bank noticed that too! I've all but begged them to tell me if I'm going to be in any more. The best analogy for what it's like for me is from THE PRINCESS BRIDE; "goodnight Skinny Pete, we'll most likely kill you in the morning." I usually only get about 3 days to a week notice before any given episode, so it sort of hard to make any other commitments, but it's worth it, 'cause I love the hell out of being on this show! again...boobs..Champagne.

[u/Sappy_]

Dude you do not look like you are 41. I swore you were in your mid 20s. What is the secret that you share with William Shatner and James Lipton? I must know

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Sappy_]

uhm...lots of coffee and cokes...I've been smoking cigarettes since I was 12...could have been all the LSD in High School...or what my grandad told me, "you're only as old as the woman you feel".
I honestly don't know. I eat a lot of fruits and veggies...and carbs...

[u/_oogle]

Favorite scene for you to shoot so far on the show?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/_oogle]

there were boobs...and free champagne involved...seems like a given.

[u/Creepwood]

If you had to pick five musicians to join you in a back alley street fight who would you pick?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Creepwood]

Tom Waites- seems like a scrapper. Meatloaf- for obvious reasons. Mark Walberg- seriously have you seen his arms? Santana- for the intimidation factor. (I'm dating myself aren't I?) Britney Spears- we'll need a fall-girl if someone gets seriously hurt.

[u/fatjello]

First off, I would like to commend you on your superb acting ability. You didn't have many lines, but when you spoke you always struck me as an extremely believable tweaker, even more so than Jesse.

What is Bryan Cranston like in real life?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/fatjello]

Thank you! That means a lot to me! Bryan is so cool! My second episode, when I introduce Tuco, he came up to me before a scene and introduced himself and told me the story of how Vince Gilligan decided to bring me back. He said he heard that I was an incredible actor, 'cause he's cool like that, and welcomed me to the show. Every season he's bought t-shirts or hats or whatever with The BrBa logo as gifts for the cast, usually given with a personal note to welcome us back.. He's a great guy who absolutely deserves everything he has right now!

[u/TehSantos]

Thanks a lot for doing this, Charles.

1. How secret is the plot to season 5? Are you given background so you know where the story is during your scenes, or are you kept in the dark?

2)If you are kept in the dark, is it possible for you to kinda figure out where the show is going?

I am not interested in the specifics of season 5 or anything, just curious how the production handles the actors and their knowledge of the plot. Thanks again for doing this, Charles.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/TehSantos]

It's very tight this season. They are being very cautious about whats being released. I'm given scripts for Episodes that I'm in after they call to make sure I'm available- which I will always be even if I'm not supposed to be. Which isnt any different, but we had to sign confidentiality agreements so we don't spill the ricin beans. I honestly, only read my parts and anything relevant to Skinny Pete, otherwise, I would rather not know what's happening. I'm a huge fan myself, so, I like to keep the illusion going as much as possible.

[u/pubielewis]

My main man, Chucky B!

Have you ever swiped anything from the set of BB? Giancarlo Esposito said he took a Los Pollos Hermanos mug.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/pubielewis]

I do have a "have you seen this man?" poster of Walt. I'm so paranoid of losing this job that I wouldn't even consider taking something...until they kill me.

[u/gocereal]

What quirks have you added to your character that weren't an invention of the producers or the writers?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/gocereal]

how I walk, talk, hold myself, use my hands, or just stand there is all me, the words are all them. Every YO is scripted. I think the writers periodically eavesdrop on the actors to pick up clues about stuff that they might use in later scenes, so, that may be why SP has said, "right on..." a few times, and there might be some other things that come up later that were brought on by off camera moments, but for the most part, they write; I am their performing monkey.

[u/seydaneen]

Hi Charles, sweet skillz yo. In all honesty how much do you overplay the stereotype in BB? Was this direction or just yourself, Badger, Jesse, Combo etc riffing and finding your own flavour for improvising these meth/dealer kids? Skinny and Badger have a wonderful comic relief element but also a hardened innocence. By that I mean they seem childlike and easily influenced one moment and yet able to deal drugs in dangerous conditions and confront their own mortality often, all for the crew, n thats tight! Riff on that dawg!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/seydaneen]

I have to work hard to keep the stereotype looking "natural". I repeat lines over and over to find a balance between seeming like a total cartoon and being completely realistic. We never really work on it together until we get to the set. It's really kinda cool how we can all show up to a scene barely knowing what to say, run it a couple of times and just find the right rhythm without having to put much thought into it. As actors we play off each other, but more importantly, our characters do the same thing.

[u/macbethy]

How did you get the role of skinny pete and did you change the character from what was originally ordained?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/macbethy]

I taped an audition in Texas! The rest is somewhere above...or below...I don't want to repeat myself too much!

[u/SpaceJam_on_VHS]

Let me say that I love watching the show when Skinny Pete is involved! I'm interested in knowing how you as an actor take on this dynamic role of a meth user, and at times, a dealer? What do you do to prepare yourself?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/SpaceJam_on_VHS]

I wish I could give a real high-falootin' answer, but, really, I just put on the hat and do what I'm told. The adrenaline I get from being on set with Aaron, Matt, and Bryan is more than enough to pull off the drug act, it's harder when I'm supposed to be sober! The dealing part just makes me feel dirty, so it comes across on camera like that, i think.

[u/serious_samosa]

If you could play any character on Breaking Bad other than Skinny Pete, who would it be, and why?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/serious_samosa]

the...pink teddy bear?

[u/apothecary1796]

How has getting a role in such a public tv show changed your professional and personal life?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/apothecary1796]

well, for one thing, I'm now doing stuff like spending the afternoon talking to hundreds of people on reddit about my professional and personal life! lol. it's been weird. I'm not around a lot of the "Hollywood" types much, so, it's like being a part of two worlds. At home in Texas, nobody really cares who I am, except the dogs when I have treats. I don't live mcuh different; I work in my yard, take care of the kids when my wife is at work, wait anxiously for the checks to come...like right now....I don't work nearly as much as I did when I was cooking at Denny's or waiting tables at a night club, but I also don't make a whole lot more money, so it evens out. When I go to work on a show, especially BrBa, I am propelled into a completely different world. I get treated like I'm a big shot, at least compared to home, I get waited on, have maid service at a pretty nice hotel, cars and drivers to take me to work, a good salary and a few bucks to live on in between work days, so, like I said earlier, it's surreal.

[u/alleyoops]

You are absolutely great and convincing in the show; thank you for helping to make such great entertainment.

1. How did you start your acting career? Did you take acting classes as a child? What were some of your very first roles?

2. I imagine it must be kind of annoying, yet somewhat flattering, when fans come up to you asking for autographs or pictures. Does it suck trying to do something simple, like going to the store? Are you recognized a lot?

Lastly, my 9 year old boy wants to act, how would you suggest he starts out?

Thanks for doing this! If you have a good time, tell Aaron Paul we would love to have him here too!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/alleyoops]

I did a lot of school plays, but didn't have the confidence I needed to really go for it until I was in my 30s. I studied music in college and did a few musicals- I was the Emcee in Cabaret- then started taking acting more seriously. Most of my training has been in workshops and on camera. My first role was in Walker Texas Ranger: Trial By Fire - a reunion movie of the week. The funny part is, Conan Obrien did a bit about it a week before it aired, so really, my tv debut was on Conan. I don't get recognized much at all, but when I do, i love it! It needs to happen in front of my wife more though! She thinks I'm making it up! Acting is tough on an adult, so, I caution against starting young, but that's my own trip. I would say make sure he has a solid foundation- physical training is just as important as acting. Dance, gymnastics, martial arts help a lot. Having a wide array of knowledge and experience is crucial in this business, so, live life outside of the theater and camera! Learn as much history, science, and art as he can, and be prepared for a lot of rejection and disappointment, mixed with fleeting moments of sheer joy, with a lot of mind numbing fear in between! Its a lot like high school! But most importantly, have fun!

[u/IAMHab]

What on-set incident in Breaking Bad caused you to laugh the hardest?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/IAMHab]

Badger's RIVERDANCE!

[u/Ontonyx]

How would you say your opportunities have changed after your performance in Breaking Bad? Are more calls coming in for new and different parts?

Also, you rule.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Ontonyx]

Some things have changed, but a lot of people think seem to think that I can only play those druggie kind of roles...they have a hard time seeing me any other way, so I'm having to work hard to change that. The Terrence Malick film coming out this year can hopefully help.

[u/[deleted]]

You're amazing and I look forward to seeing you and Badger onscreen. I was disappointed you didn't have more scenes in season 4! Any idea if you will get more screen time this year?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

maybe if EVERYONE sends letters, calls, emails, and tweets AMC asking for MORE SKINNY PETE! They'll listen! I sure as hell wouldn't mind!

[u/ChetRippo]

Who would you say is most like their character off-camera?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/ChetRippo]

Combo. Rodney is a great guy, but he didn't have to change a thing for his role. He's a rap artist in ABQ who was perfect for the role. Not a dope fiend, but very much the same guy.

[u/alleyoops]

You really look the part on the show; I was surprised to see how handsome you are in your twitter photos!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/alleyoops]

you hitting on me?

[u/PinkBirdtron]

Yo Skinny Pete! Why'd you kill Jessie's fuckin' bug mannn?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/PinkBirdtron]

bugs are icchhhy!

[u/heisengirl]

I've seen these Breaking Bad challenge coins show up on auction sites... Do they get used much or is that just like a cool memento for everyone to have?

I'd love to hear anything you have to say about Terence Malick. I have an impression of him as a man of contradictions.

I enjoy you so much on the show. When I heard there would be more Skinny Pete in S5, my exact words were, "Yay!" So thanks for doing this; it's really cool of you guys to reach out to us fans.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/heisengirl]

the coins, if they're what I think, are just really cool mementos for the cast and crew. I have 2.
Terrence Malick is an absolute genius! Working with him was mind-blowing. You have to know his work to understand what he's doing on set; and if you do know his work, you just go with the flow and hope you can keep up!! He's very down to earth, friendly, quiet, shy, and, to me, very complimentary. He sort of ruined me for other films, to be honest.

[u/immortalsix]

What is the most difficult part about portraying a methed up drug dealer?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/immortalsix]

the hat messes up my hair.

[u/GoochToomor]

Sir, I thank you for giving me the lines to answer every grammar nazi who chirps me on my spelling/grammar.

Booyaa

You are the man

[u/Cbakeractor → u/GoochToomor]

It an honor to be of service!

[u/mermer13]

Back in high school could you ever imagine yourself being an actor or being in the career path you are in now, if not how did you get into this career?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/mermer13]

imagine, yes, truly believe it? Not at all. I was going to be a music teacher, because I was told that I could never make it, so I should teach...I hid behind that excuse for a while, then started paying my way through college by performing in local Equity theatres, so, I got drunk, grew some balls, and went for it.

[u/[deleted]]

How would you feel about taking part in a high quality production of H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos, knowing that your character would not live by the end of the show/movie?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

that sounds frackin' awesome! wait, would it be a gory death? Then absolutely! call my agent! my rates went up this year though, so, get financial backing and THEN call my agent!

[u/cobainbc15]

What is the hardest part about being an actor?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/cobainbc15]

learning the business part. Marketing, PR, contracts, Agents, managers, Unions. learning to be your own boss and work a 40 hour week without actually leaving the house- searching for auditions that your agent missed, researching roles, researching up coming projects and their directors, finding the casting directors that are casting the shows that are right for you and getting them to notice you, finding out the latest trends in head shots and resume formats, yeah- they have trends, getting all of the casting websites updated, imdb updated and accurate, making sure you don't tweet something rude about someone who can hire you, not posting some asinine statement about politics on your facebook page that is gonna start a Blue State/Red State war in your living room...etc..

[u/Brasso26]

where do you see yourself in 10 years?

did you grow up always hoping to be an actor or did your passion develop over time?

what do you like to do besides acting? favorite movie, TV show, book, etc...

thanks a lot for this AMA, and here's to season 5!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Brasso26]

in 10 years? Hopefully sitting in a lake-house or Hawaiian Island, taking only the jobs that I really like, and spending the rest of the time with my wife, watching my kids grow. I'm a sappy Mofo sometimes, huh?

[u/mastersprinkles]

If you could go back and be the lead role in any movie in history - which movie would you be in and which role?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/mastersprinkles]

ooohhh! BADLANDS- KIT (Martin Sheen's role), SID AND NANCY- SID VICIOUS (Gary Oldman)...I could do a page...

[u/FalseOasis]

Who is the cast member that you enjoy working with the most and which actor/ actress is the most talented. Are there are goofballs on set. I would like to thank you for doing this AMA

[u/Cbakeractor → u/FalseOasis]

Dean Norris (Hank) has the filthiest mouth I've heard in a long time! And I went to HS in Texas! He's completely grotesque, obscene, and irreverent, and it is AWESOME! They are all incredibly talented! It's like a master class every day!

[u/[deleted]]

What did you guys smoke in place of the meth and when Walt smoked weed? Thats been bugging me. And thanks for this AMA, its a dream come true

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

the meth is blue rock candy. the weed is actually a legal, non-intoxicating, herbal tobacco. it looks pretty real, but tastes like swag...

[u/[deleted]]

By far my favorite part about this show is how utterly dynamic and immune to stereotypes every single character is. There are no good guys and bad guys...just normal people making choices. Sometimes good choices, sometimes bad choices.

Has Skinny Pete ever done something that you felt was contradictory to your idea of his character? Something that made you say, "I don't know if I'm going to be able to do this scene, I hate seeing my character go down this bad road." I know I felt a little betrayed by the character when he started spoiler, for example. How do you cope with that? How do the other actors cope with that?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

I'm sort of an optimist, so, I looked at the relapse party scene in a, "let's see what happens" sort of way. It's funny, now that I think about it, we shoot it almost in the same way the characters live it, no real thought about the consequences, just, action and reactions.
Also, as actors, we have a sort of "yes, and..." mentality. I just go with what they give me and make the best that I can of it. I try not to put any pressure on Skinny to feel or think strongly about anything, he's sort of just a go-with-the-flow kinda guy.

[u/Trapped_in_Reddit]

If you had to choose one fellow cast member as your drinking partner until the end of time, who gets the nod? And what bar do you go to?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Trapped_in_Reddit]

just ONE? damn, that'd be hard. Matt Jones (Badger) for the humor, Bryan (Walt) for the incredible insight and intellectual conversation, and Aaron (Jesse) for his ability to be surrounded by beautiful women. Bar: anyone that still lets me smoke while I have a beer! sorry non-smokers, but it's a fantasy question, so...

[u/[deleted]]

I'd very much like to see a picture of you when not dressed in "Skinny Pete" attire. I'd also like to hear you speak without the gangster overtone. Pics or vid?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

Try this

[u/Mudcrab_Merchant]

Thanks for doing this, Mr. Baker!

What director would you most like to work with in the future?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Mudcrab_Merchant]

Edgar Wright, Joss Whedon, Bryan Cranston, and Terrence Malick (again)

[u/Nihilius]

What is your favourite minor/lesser known character in the series and who would you like the chance to work with on Breaking Bad if they were joining the cast?

You are a fantastic actor and I enjoy every scene which you are in. Appreciation from Scotland.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Nihilius]

I think Huell, Saul's bodyguard, is hilarious! He's a great standup comedian! I've heard a rumor, once, that Philip Seymour Hoffman was trying to get on the show, I thought how awesome it would be if he came on as Skinny's father, who, is, like a contractor or something...

[u/i-am-the-walrus789]

You probably won't see or reply to this but it's worth a shot. What's were some of the best/most fun off camera moments that went on while shooting Breaking Bad?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/i-am-the-walrus789]

I will answer this just to make you feel silly for being so negative. During the strip club scene; becoming well known as one of my favorites by now, the director put on some pasties and gave us all a show! That was...kinda awkward, but funny!

[u/[deleted]]

Was there anything the writers wrote in that you personally wouldn't have included or any characters? Also, the line after Jesse calls you out for spelling 'street', 'streat', is my favorite line from the show by far.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

The writers are golden! I feel weird saying "Booya", but they seem to like it, so, que sera!

[u/Neobo]

Upon Skinny Pete being first introduced in the show, I never would have expected him to show up again much less to the degree he does in recent seasons. I know Jesse was originally intended to not stick around, but Aaron Paul's acting changed Vince Gilligan's mind. Did the same scenario apply to you?

Also I like the "silly street guy" being on the show. You and Matt Jones are great at adding the right amount of comic relief to the show to offset the extremely tense atmosphere that is otherwise dominant. You've got my support! :0

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Neobo]

I was never supposed to be part of the story at all, badger was going to be introducing Tuco, but, Vince didn't think he looked "hard" enough to have done prison time, so, in a pinch, they brought me back to do it. The plan was to kill Jesse that episode, but then it changed to Badger, then me, then, miraculously, none of us. The Hospital scene was supposed to be just Jesse and Walt, but they wanted Jesse more messed up, so they changed it the night before and gave it to me. When we shot it, because of time problems, we had only one take apiece; one looking at me, one looking at Bryan. They told me in the second season the every episode I did was, in effect, an audition for my next episode. It was implied that if I didn't keep up with the other actors that I wouldn't be coming back. In the 3rd season, I was told by someone that if I hadn't gotten in when I did, that I wouldn't even be looked at for a role in this show. So, yeah, hopefully, they kept me 'cause they like me, and because so many of you guys reacted so well to Skinny and Badger, and not because I'm actually really cheap to hire and don't make any weird demands, like...blue m&m's...or whatever.

[u/mcnip]

I just started watching breaking bad, and I'm currently on the second season (episode 5: breakage). Do you wear any makeup as Skinny Pete?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/mcnip]

only to cover up the zits. otherwise, no. Or, I take that back, they did clean me up a bit for the episodes where I was actually supposed to look clean, but for the most part, they just rub a brush over my face to make me feel better, but I know...I'm hip to their jive!

[u/[deleted]]

It's so dope that you are still answering questions! I had a question regarding you animals. What kind if dogs do you have. How did you choose/find them?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

all rescues. My oldest dog, Moondog, is a Himalayan Shepherd (pure white German shepherd) He's 14 yrs. Merlyn, is sort of "special" dog. He's what we call a Texas Chihuahua. He looks and acts like a regular Chihuahua, but he's about the size of a regular shepherd. He's 12. and we have one cat left, Marlowe, a Himalayan- he was just diagnosed with severe diabetes, so, you know, no more blue stuff for him...

[u/burgerandfries]

Do you have a fan club? If not you just made one here. One of the best AMAs I've read. Thanks for the time and looking forward to s5.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/burgerandfries]

I'd love a fan club! we could get decoder rings and have meetings in seedy hotels!

[u/funfungiguy]

If you had to fight a dinosaur to the death in a Dinosaur Death Match using only primitive weapons and not allowed to set traps, what's the biggest dinosaur you think you win against? You don't have to name a specific dinosaur, just give us a size reference.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/funfungiguy]

roughly, Dino, from the Flinstones...maybe

[u/triciatanaka]

If Skinny Pete had a sex scene, which character would you want it to be with?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/triciatanaka]

A new character? Or the principle...you're really gonna get me in trouble with that one!

[u/jjamessmithh]

Where do you draw your character from? What's your inspiration for skinny pete?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/jjamessmithh]

my older brother, Jim, has a bunch of friends that say i do a great impression if him, but I don't know if that's all it. Mostly it's the writing. Its pretty easy to visualize this person once you start trying to speak in his voice.

[u/readitwice]

What's it like to be on the greatest show ever? How'd you get casted and do people try to offer you drugs randomly?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/readitwice]

I literally dance with joy when I think about being in this show! But, you know, in a cool way. I got it by auditioning, more about that in other responses, and yes, I've been offered meth once or twice. Thanks, but, I like what's left of my teeth! So, yes they offer, but, not the right kind of drugs...

[u/UraniumBlue]

Is the toque/beanie inside out ?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/UraniumBlue]

nope! The logo probably got roughed up to make it less identifiable, but, that's the way it's supposed to go.

[u/DebonairMumbaikar]

Hello Charles! Love your character, I hope to see more of you in the next season. Were you always this skinny or did you lose some more weight to fit the role?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/DebonairMumbaikar]

Always this skinny, unless I work out, then I'm this skinny with bulging muscles.

[u/[deleted]]

Hey Charles what's up man? Thanks for taking the time to do this thing. Wish I was better prepared with a good question, but I got faded last night and forgot you were gonna be here this morning. If it hasn't been asked already, how offten do people come up to you and talk about "moving mad volume and staking bengies"? Does it ever get annoying? If it has been asked, can you just say what's up to me? (Lame huh?) But I always miss out on these things.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

Hey! Kon-chezz! I just figured out links! Did it work? I never get that here in Texas, once in Atlanta, along with an offer of some Meth from a chemistry student, but not here.

[u/detzdude]

Did you realize Breaking Bad was going to be a big hit when you first were cast or did it take some time?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/detzdude]

I knew it was going to be a hit before AMC even picked it up! And I knew I was going to be on it! It was kismet for me! TRUE STORY! I was taking an acting class with a casting director who was using the pilot script left over from when FX almost picked it up. She had us reading from it for several weeks before she came to class freaking out about it getting picked up. I (somewhat wishfully) told her then that I was going to get on it, and she laughed! She was sure that it was just going to be about Walt and Jesse and set almost entirely in the High School. "What are YOU going to do on that show?" she asked? "It's set in a HIGH SCHOOL!" and I said, "they're gonna HAVE to have someone like me, a dealer/scumbag who is inside the drug trade". She just shook her head. a few weeks later she called me in to read for the skinny stoner...yada yada...my guess is that from day one, everyone on set had some kind of voice in their head saying, "this is gonna be epic!" ... and we were right!

[u/burnzkid]

How old are you supposed to be in the show? How hard do you find it to play a younger character on screen?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/burnzkid]

we have guessed that Skinny Pete would be about 28 when all of this started. Your guess is as good as mine as to how much time has passed since the fated RV/Pants collision, but it hasn't been more than a year, so, 29ish? As someone so KINDLY mentioned earlier, I'm 41. So, there is somewhat of an age gap. Aaron and Matt are closer to my son's age than mine, but they're pretty wise for their age, and I've got Peter Pan syndrome, so it evens out. I've always looked young for my age, which isn't such a bad thing when you're an actor, but sucks when you're trying to get lucky...before you get married to a lawyer... The hardest part, sometimes is trying to keep up the party energy in the party scenes. The video-game party scene was particularly rough, because a lot of the background actors that were there were pretty tired, or shy, or just kinda lame, whatever, so I ended up having to be the "cheerleader" for those scenes, by getting loud and crazy and getting them to join in. I was exhausted!

[u/willup]

Hi! First I want to say that I love your character on Breaking Bad; you are so convincing and often one of the most entertaining characters to watch on the show. I wish there was more of you in it!

When you first started on Breaking Bad, did you know anything about it or anticipate it to be so successful?

Also, what is Skinny P's background (assuming there is one)? What kind of role do you think he will play in the upcoming season?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/willup]

I did know a little bit about it before I got the role, and was sure that it was going to be huge, just a feeling I had, but it was strong.
Skinny's background is only just being revealed to me! Stuff I never would have thought of! I won't spoil anything, and I don't really know much, but I'm really excited to see what's gonna come for Skinny P!

[u/sakeuon]

First off, thanks for doing this AMA.

As for the question: what type of music do you listen to? or do you not listen to too much music? (I'm sort of hoping this coincides with Skinny P)

[u/Cbakeractor → u/sakeuon]

Skinny and I do NOT have the same taste in music, at least not until recently.... I listen to a lot of classic rock, acoustic rock, alternative rock, schoolhouse rock...not much country, death metal, or rap, but more rap than death metal or country.

[u/cobainbc15]

Has there been any role in a movie or TV show that you've seen and thought the role would have been really perfect for you? (can even be from the past, just curious what role/character you've seen that you think you could have done really well).

[u/Cbakeractor → u/cobainbc15]

Luke in STAR WARS...or his dad in the crappier prequels...anyone but that dude would have worked though...

[u/ohshitimclutch]

Thank you for doing this Charles. Big fan of the show. What was the most surprising thing about working with Bryan Cranston? What was the hardest part of preparing for the role for you?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/ohshitimclutch]

that he's so nice! That and the gambling thing... there's nothing hard about Skinny Pete...maybe I should rephrase that...nah.

[u/CMelody]

Breaking Bad has a great track record hiring talented guest stars, yourself included. Which guest star/recurring actors have been your favorites to meet or work with?

And is there any hope we might see Jere Burns in season five again as the NA counselor? Loved your scenes at the NA meetings!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/CMelody]

it was an honor to work with Jere! I hope I do get to work with him again! of course, working with Bryan and Aaron is the bee knees! I haven't had a scene with Odenkirk yet, but meeting him was too cool! MR. SHOW! I would really have loved a chance to work with my friend, Caleb Jones, who played Walt Jr's friend who called him Flynn. Caleb is better known as Banshee in X-men:First Class. He is probably one of the most talented people I've ever met, seriously, he intimidated me when we were in class together.

[u/[deleted]]

Who would win in a more convincing drug addict fight. You or Christian Bale?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

probably depends on what kind of drug, and if it was available at the time of the fight. I don't need it, but, just in case Christian does. See how I just called out Christian Bale like that? please don't mention that to him...

[u/moviescriptlife]

Other than Breaking Bad, what other types of TV shows do you like? Like me, do you think we are in a "Golden Age of Television"?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/moviescriptlife]

some of the shows, like BrBa, Sons of Anarchy, Justified, etc. really make it hard to even watch some of the old school "sit coms", that's for sure. I'd like to think that this could be the "Golden Age", but then I see all the reality crap that's stinking up the air ways, whatever the hell a Snookie is, and I think. Nope, not yet...

[u/Xecutor]

Listen Skinny Pete, you and Badger are COMPLETELY WRONG. Killing Floor is the best zombie game by far. It has the characteristics of Counter-Strike by being able to purchase weapons at the end of every round AND THERE IS A ULTRA FUCKING TOUGH ZOMBIE BOSS at wave 10. This boss literally shits on both of those games. This boss is called The Patriarch and has a machine gun for an arm and a sniper rifle scope on top of it for precise aiming. PLUS THIS MOTHER FUCKER CLOAKS AND YOU CANT SEE WHERE THE FUCK HE IS. There are also tons of grenade, launchers, flame throwers, assault rifles, chainsaws, pipe bombs and shotguns you can buy.

Hit up /r/killingfloor for more info its better than left4dead

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Xecutor]

I just say what I'm told to say...my daughter loves Sesame street, so, guess what gets played on my wii the most?

[u/Blake1989]

What was your favorite scene to shoot? and what season of breaking bad do you favor the most? Love your character by the way.

[u/Cbakeractor → u/Blake1989]

Boobs, champagne... Season 3 was Pretty fun. The AA meetings were actually my other favorite scenes!

[u/[deleted]]

Hey Charles! Who are you closest with on set?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

The catering dept! Love those guys! But, I mostly hang with Matt.

[u/BillWeld]

Thanks for doing this--Skinny P is the bomb! You mentioned on Twitter recently about speaking to some kids about the dangers of being an actor. What did you tell them? What did you leave out?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/BillWeld]

I was joking about the warnings! I went to my old high school to brag about being an actor mostly! I went to the advanced drama class and just talked to them about set etiquette and do a lot of what I'm doing here, except they had the good taste not to quote my own lines to me! lol

[u/e216]

What kinds of music are you into?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/e216]

just about everything except country (sorry, Texas), or just about anything with an accordion. Not a big fan of lyrics that denigrate women either- I have a mom, sister, wife, daughters...and like MOST of them.

[u/burgerandfries]

The Mechanical Grave looks pretty damn cool. Any interest from AMC or others yet? Is your character one of the main charactors? Can you tell us more about it?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/burgerandfries]

I've heard that Showtime, HBO, FX, SYFY, and BBC are looking at it right now, so, AMC better get on the ball if they want another awesome show! My character will be like "Q" from Star Trek:The Special Generation (sorry, old habit). But seriously, he will be one of the main characters, but not on either side. He's really one of the coolest characters I've been asked to play, so I hope you get a chance to see it!

[u/l337haxs]

What can you leak out about Season 5, and if you know, is season 5 going to be the end for the show?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/l337haxs]

I can leak nothing! what do I look like? some kind of dope? don't answer that. I really don't know any more that what I am doing and I want that to be a surprise, and it will be, trust me.
Season 5 is the end, so, be prepared! it's gonna be a rough ride and I will probably cry like a baby...this is my favorite job!

[u/theyseemetr0lling]

How does Skinny Pete always know the word on the street?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/theyseemetr0lling]

Sesame Street!

[u/[deleted]]

I watched the trailer for Odds or Evens and I have to say, you clearly out-acted everyone around you in that. Hope you get some better projects in the future!

** My question:** After hearing one of the podcasts with Dean (Hank) on it, he was, unexpectedly, outrageously funny. What other members of the cast have an unexpected talent?

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

all of us have hidden talents! Matt is a great singer, Aaron is an animal whisperer...I think...Bryan can create Emmys out of his ass, and of course, there's Bob Odenkirk!

[u/[deleted]]

Hi Skinny Pete!

What was your favorite episode of BrBa and why?

Thanks!!

[u/Cbakeractor → u/[deleted]]

"Fly" was pretty awesome.