Jonathan Banks
Biography
Jonathan Ray Banks is an American actor born on January 31, 1947, in Washington, D.C. Raised in Indiana, he studied at Indiana University before beginning his acting career in the 1970s, spending decades as a working character actor in Hollywood.
Banks is most widely recognized for his role as Mike Ehrmantraut, the stoic former police officer turned fixer, in Breaking Bad (2009-2013) and Better Call Saul (2015-2022). His understated performance became a fan favorite, earning five Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
Prior to Breaking Bad, Banks appeared in Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Wiseguy (1987-1990), and the comedy series Community. He is widely regarded as one of the finest character actors of his generation.
Known For
Other Notable Roles
- Mike Ehrmantraut in Better Call Saul (2015-2022)
- Frank McPike in Wiseguy (1987-1990)
- Zed in Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
- Buzz Hickey in Community (2014-2015)
Awards & Recognition
- 🏆 5x Primetime Emmy Nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Better Call Saul)
- 🏆 Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series (Breaking Bad)
Frequently Asked Questions
Jonathan Banks is best known for playing Mike Ehrmantraut in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.
Despite five Emmy nominations for Better Call Saul, Jonathan Banks has not yet won an Emmy.
He had a long career including roles in Beverly Hills Cop (1984) and Wiseguy (1987-1990).