​The critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad came to an end last week, leaving behind a legacy that is likely to last for decades.

The originality of Breaking Bad is one of the factors that set it apart from so many other shows. The story begins when Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a chemistry teacher, is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, and realizes that he can no longer provide for his family. His brother-in-law Hank (Dean Norris) works for the DEA, and decides one day to bring Walt on a fateful ride-along during a drug bust. Walt sees how much money can be made from selling crystal meth, and decides to team up with Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), a former student of his.

That is the first real moment when Walt is actually “breaking bad,” and the beginning to a series that would bewilder viewers with its unexpected twists and turns. His character development throughout the series is fascinating; gradually he becomes corrupted by his crystal meth business, and eventually is willing to do anything to those who stand in his way.

The cast of Breaking Bad proved to be extraordinary, despite not having much recognition before the show gained popularity. Bryan Cranston, who plays the main character on the show, was most well known for playing the dad in the comedy series Malcolm in the Middle before taking his new role as Walt. It’s hard to believe that such a transformation was possible from a goofy dad to a sociopathic crystal meth manufacturer.

Transformation, as Director Vince Gilligan may remind fans, is the key component to Breaking Bad. Walter White transformed into something that was entirely different from his former self, a man whose inner evil appealed to viewers throughout the country. Before the series ended, it was clear that he had transformed into something that was deserving of little sympathy.

​The conclusion to Breaking Bad was one that was thoroughly pleasing, and wrapped up the series in a way that left no strings left untied. The intensity of the last few scenes was enough to get your heart pounding. Although the series was concluded brilliantly, there was a hole left in the hearts of many fans as the screen went black and the credits rolled.