Anna Gunn, recognized for her compelling portrayal of Skyler White in AMC’s acclaimed series Breaking Bad, has built a multifaceted career in television and film that has significantly shaped her financial standing. As of 2025, Gunn’s estimated net worth is approximately $9 million, a figure that represents not only her acting income but also her strategic investments and residual earnings from syndication. The profound impact of her role in Breaking Bad, one of the most lauded television dramas of the 21st century, has solidified her place in the entertainment industry and brought her both critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.
Born on August 11, 1968, in Cleveland, Ohio, Anna Kathryn Gunn was raised in the culturally rich city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Growing up in a family that valued education and creativity, her parents, Shana and Clemens Earl Gunn Jr., fostered an environment conducive to artistic expression. Gunn’s early education at Santa Fe Preparatory School, noted for its strong emphasis on the arts, set the stage for her eventual pursuit of a theatrical career. After graduating in 1986, she enrolled in theater studies at Northwestern University, a decision that further honed her performing skills. While at Northwestern, Gunn had the opportunity to study classical acting at the prestigious British American Drama Academy in Oxford, gaining invaluable experience that would inform her future roles.
Gunn’s career began in the early 1990s with guest appearances on various television series, including Quantum Leap, Seinfeld, and The Practice. These roles, while modest, provided her with essential experience and visibility. Her breakthrough came with HBO’s gritty Western drama Deadwood, where she portrayed Martha Bullock from 2005 to 2006. This complex role showcased her versatility and earned her industry recognition. However, it was her role as Skyler White, cast in 2008 for Breaking Bad, that would become her most defining work. Over the show’s six-season run, which concluded in 2013, Gunn’s performance garnered her critical acclaim and two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
Following Breaking Bad, Gunn diversified her career by taking on a range of projects, including significant roles in films like Clint Eastwood’s Sully (2016) and the financial thriller Equity (2016). She further showcased her versatility by engaging in voice acting, most notably voicing Ariel in the video game series Legacy of Kain. This ability to adapt and expand her repertoire has played a crucial role in maintaining her income and relevance within the industry post-Breaking Bad.
In her personal life, Gunn was married to Scottish actor and real estate broker Alastair Duncan from 1990 until their divorce in 2009. The couple shares two daughters, Eila Rose and Emma, whom Gunn often cites as her grounding force amid the pressures of Hollywood. She has openly discussed the challenges of balancing a flourishing career with motherhood, underscoring the vital role a supportive family environment plays in her life. After her divorce, Gunn largely opted for a private life, focusing on her children and burgeoning career, although she has spoken candidly about the public scrutiny surrounding her portrayal of Skyler White and its effects on her well-being.
Beyond her acting career, Gunn has demonstrated acute financial wisdom, particularly in real estate investments that have substantially contributed to her net worth. In 2008, at the zenith of her fame, she acquired a luxury property in Tribeca, New York City, for over $10 million. This neighborhood, known for its affluent real estate market and celebrity residences, proved to be a strategic investment. Gunn also sold a Manhattan home in 2014 for $4 million, capitalizing on the city’s appreciating property values. Furthermore, her Hollywood Hills house was sold in 2015 for $2 million, further reflecting her ability to navigate real estate trends effectively. Such transactions illustrate her adeptness in diversifying her income streams, providing her with financial stability beyond her acting roles.
As of 2025, Gunn’s diverse income sources contribute to her estimated annual earnings, which fall within the range of $500,000 to $1 million. This income derives from various avenues, including acting roles, voice work, and residuals from her past projects. The rise of streaming platforms has been particularly beneficial for actors like Gunn, generating ongoing revenue through residual payments from Breaking Bad, which continues to attract new audiences.
Gunn’s tenure on Breaking Bad was particularly lucrative; she reportedly earned $75,000 per episode, culminating in about $4.65 million from the 62 episodes. This salary was noteworthy for a supporting actress on a cable drama, especially considering the massive popularity and critical acclaim the show garnered. Additionally, as Breaking Bad gained momentum, Gunn’s residual payments from syndication and streaming further augmented her earnings.
Her iconic role as Skyler White not only provided substantial financial rewards but also led to critical recognition in the industry, advancing her career opportunities thereafter. The enigma surrounding her character generated discussions and engagements that reinforced Gunn’s presence in Hollywood. Her ability to navigate public perception and address the complexities of her character’s depiction is emblematic of her professionalism and resilience in an industry rife with scrutiny.
As her star continues to shine, Gunn has maintained a close friendship with co-star Bryan Cranston, whose portrayal of Walter White complements her role in Breaking Bad. Their relationship has been characterized by mutual respect and support, underscored by numerous public appearances together, which exemplify the enduring connections formed on set. Both actors have reflected on their experiences during the show’s production and expressed fondness for the collaborative environment that fostered their performances.
In navigating the challenges of fame and public scrutiny, Gunn has candidly addressed how certain weight fluctuations during the show’s filming were due to health complications, including her battle with lupus, an autoimmune condition. This revelation not only shed light on her personal struggles but also highlighted the often-unseen battles actors face that can affect public perception and their professional lives.
Anna Gunn’s journey through the entertainment landscape reflects her talent, resilience, and business acumen. From her humble beginnings to achieving recognition for her contributions to one of the most celebrated television dramas, she exemplifies the intersection of artistry and entrepreneurship. As of 2025, her impact on the industry continues to resonate, showcasing how talent combined with a strategic approach to wealth management can lead to sustained success in the competitive environment of Hollywood.