Aaron Paul Sturtevant (born August 27, 1979) is an acclaimed American actor and producer, widely recognized for his iconic portrayal of Jesse Pinkman in the hit television series Breaking Bad (2008–2013). His performance earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
Beyond acting, Paul co-founded the mezcal brand Dos Hombres with Bryan Cranston and participates actively in philanthropic efforts, including supporting anti-bullying initiatives. Over the years, he has expanded his career into film, voice acting, and production, demonstrating remarkable range and dedication.
Quick Facts of Aaron Paul
| Full Name | Aaron Paul Sturtevant |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 27, 1979 |
| Place of Birth | Emmett, Idaho, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Early Life | Youngest of four children; performed in church plays |
| Education | Centennial High School, Boise, Idaho (1997) |
| Career Beginnings | Moved to Los Angeles in 1998; appeared in commercials and guest TV roles |
| Notable Works | Breaking Bad, Need for Speed, BoJack Horseman, Westworld, El Camino |
| Relationship Status | Married to Lauren Parsekian since 2013; two children |
| Net Worth | Estimated $20 million (2024) |
| Major Achievements | Three Primetime Emmy Awards; co-founder of Dos Hombres mezcal |
Early Life and Family Background
Aaron Paul was born in Emmett, Idaho, to Darla (née Haynes) and Robert Sturtevant, a Baptist minister. Remarkably, he was born a month premature in his parents’ bathroom. Growing up in a religious household, Paul participated in church plays, which sparked his interest in acting. He graduated from Centennial High School in Boise, Idaho, in 1997.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
After high school, Paul moved to Los Angeles in 1998 to pursue acting. He appeared in commercials and had guest roles on TV shows like Beverly Hills, 90210 and Melrose Place. His career took a dramatic turn in 2008 when he landed the role of Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad. His portrayal captured audiences worldwide, earning him three Primetime Emmy Awards and critical acclaim.
Notable Works and Achievements
Following Breaking Bad, Paul expanded into film and voice acting. He starred in Need for Speed (2014) and Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014). He voiced Todd Chavez in BoJack Horseman (2014–2020) and appeared in The Path (2016–2018). In 2019, he reprised Jesse Pinkman in El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie.
Paul also participated in projects like Dual (2022) and the podcast series The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory (2024). His versatility has allowed him to balance live-action and voice roles successfully.
Personal Life
Aaron Paul married Lauren Parsekian in 2013, and the couple has two children. They actively support philanthropic causes, including the Kind Campaign, which seeks to end girl-on-girl bullying. Paul maintains a relatively private family life while occasionally sharing glimpses on social media.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2024, Aaron Paul’s net worth is estimated at $20 million. Most of his wealth comes from his acting career, particularly his role in Breaking Bad, where he earned approximately $200,000 per episode during the final seasons. His entrepreneurial ventures, including Dos Hombres mezcal, also contribute significantly to his income.
Paul enjoys a passion for vintage cars, including a 1965 Shelby Cobra, and has a tattoo on the inside of his arm, reflecting his personal style and interests.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Paul actively supports charitable initiatives, especially the Kind Campaign. His portrayal of Jesse Pinkman has left a lasting cultural impact, influencing storytelling and character development in modern television. He has inspired both fans and aspiring actors with his dedication and authenticity.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Aaron Paul continues to explore diverse roles across television, film, and voice acting. His work in Breaking Bad remains influential, shaping modern television’s approach to complex characters and emotional storytelling. As he takes on new projects, Paul’s career demonstrates his commitment to growth, creativity, and meaningful contributions to the entertainment industry.
