27 Mar Breaking Barriers and Embracing Identity with Giancarlo Esposito
- Actor and social activist Giancarlo Esposito joined ASI for a special edition of Beyond the Conversation.
- Attendees of the event received insight Esposito’s journey in navigation Hollywood film and media.
- Esposito shared stories on his upbringing, identity, and challenges, inspiring both Titans and the CSUF Community.
Emmy-nominated actor and social activist Giancarlo Esposito joined Titans on March 20, 2025, for a discussion of Hollywood film and media. Best known for his role as Gus Fring in the award-winning show “Breaking Bad”, Esposito offered a glimpse into his journey as a biracial actor in American Television. In this special edition of the Beyond the Conversation series, Esposito was also invited during ASI’s Social Justice Week, to share his social justice initiatives.
From Across the Globe to Making Moves in Hollywood
Esposito reflects on his upbringing and connection to art. / Credit: ASI Marketing, Communications & Design
Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, and raised in Italy by his parents, Esposito reflected on the challenges of being an international actor, noting his mission to break systemic barriers and further his artistic passion.
“I grew up in a household where there was constant creativity, whether it be from music or visual theatre,” expressed Esposito. “Due to this exposure, I began to conjure up a feeling that imprinted upon my tastes and career… that’s what art is all about, allowing your imagination to soar.”
Esposito weaved together insights from his personal life and career, delivering a message of hope and resilience to CSUF’s diverse students, while encouraging aspiring artists to find purpose in their journeys.
From the Spotlight to Social Change: Esposito’s Journey
CSUF students line up for this special edition of Beyond the Conversation. / Credit: ASI Marketing, Communications & Design
Alondra Gonzalez, ASI’s Association of Intercultural Awareness (AICA) Vice Chair and CSUF student, moderated this Beyond the Conversation. Gonzalez guided the event by asking Esposito questions about his career, multicultural background and passion for social justice work.
Esposito shared how important it is for him to take on roles that reflect his upbringing and contribute to social change. He emphasized that he feels proud to be part of projects that make a difference.
“It makes me feel like I’m on the right side of history in being a part of history and in sharing these roles,” Esposito said. “Being a contributor and finding that space in this art.”
Esposito’s work in Hollywood not only highlights his talent but his influence and recognition in the industry, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in both film and representation.
Esposito’s Legacy in Film and Representation
Esposito in the critically acclaimed series “Godfather of Harlem.”/ Credit: AwardsFocus.com
Esposito’s iconic career dates to the 1980s, featuring roles in projects by legendary producers like Spike Lee and Bryan Cranston. Never one to shy away from bold, diverse roles, Esposito has built a legacy through his work in television series like “Law & Order” and “Breaking Bad” and films like “Malcolm X” and “Do the Right Thing”.
Throughout the discussion, he spoke about how these roles have not only shaped his career but reinforced his passion for representing his cultural background.
“The films I did with Spike Lee felt like a formative experience as if I were cutting my teeth,” emphasized Esposito. “Prior to that, I had an understanding of who I was as a Black man and an Italian, but I never had the experiential feeling outside of that—feeling what it was like to be part of movements.”
Through his performances and dedication to authentic storytelling, Esposito continues to use his platform to uplift his community and leave an impact on the film industry.
Esposito Embracing His Identity
Esposito relays his admiration for individuality. / Credit: ASI Marketing, Communications & Design
Esposito’s passion for representing his cultural background was also evident throughout the conversation. Noting obstacles in his career, Esposito shared “When I was finding my path, I really tried to be unjaded, unimprinted by all the things I was told how I should be, how things should look, how I should act. Even though it was hard, I tried to be more guided by my instinct, my inspiration and what moved me.”
In reflecting on his identity, Esposito also expressed the importance of learning from African American performers.
“Spike Lee was a huge propeller in my career,” shared Esposito. “Working with him changed my life because it allowed me to have the courage to tell stories about history.”
Though his journey has led to fame, Esposito reminded the audience that growing up wasn’t always easy for him.
“My life is really about empowerment. I came from basically nothing; I pulled myself up and recreated myself over and over again,” expressed Esposito. “This was all because I realized what I do best is bring people together and empower them, because of what I have been through and lived.”
Drawing inspiration from African American history, Esposito emphasized the importance of embracing his identity and the role it played in shaping his career. By sharing his journey, he hopes to empower others to overcome obstacles.
AICA Brings Inspiring Conversations for Change
Esposito and Alondra Gonzalez, AICA’s Vice Chair, beam during his Beyond the Conversation interview. / Credit: ASI Marketing, Communications & Design
The Beyond the Conversation event featuring Esposito was just one of many events taking place during ASI’s Social Justice Week.
“These Beyond the Conversations series are meant to constantly shine light on social change, diversity, equity, inclusion, cultural awareness and advocacy,” shared Tanya Gonzalez, AICA’S Chair. “Esposito broke barriers as a biracial actor; I hope students take his advice and use it to advocate and be educated on cultural awareness.”
Occurring from March 17-21, the celebration also offered a variety of educational resources and engaging events such as workshops, candid conversations and training on historical events.
“I decided to come to this Beyond the Conversation because of my personal connection to the show Breaking Bad,” said first year computer science student, Asia Martinez. “[Giancarlo] means a lot to me because he represents perseverance, and because in every challenge he’s faced, he’s found a way to overcome them.”
Esposito’s hour-long conversation is just one of the highly anticipated highlights of the week, presented in partnership with AICA. The event attracted an overwhelmingly sold-out crowd of students, all who were eager to get a glimpse of the actor.
Overcoming Obstacles: Esposito’s Resilience and Empowerment
Students listen to Giancarlo Esposito discuss his life experiences. / Credit: ASI Marketing, Communications, and Design
Esposito’s presence reminded students to keep pushing through any obstacles they face in their academic and career paths, showing that resilience is key for moving beyond the fear of failure.
“No one is talentless. It takes the cultivation of the ideas and talent, the silence in between the words to be inspired to have that new idea,” emphasized Esposito. “Go forth and change the world with the power inside of you.”
From the energy of the attendees to the engaging questions asked afterward, the event provided a unique opportunity for students to connect with Esposito’s experiences. His insights into the challenges faced by African American performers left a lasting impact, making the interactive speaker event an unforgettable and inspiring experience for the CSUF community.
Behind the Scenes with Esposito
Esposito then went on to provide a behind-the-scenes look at his journey as an actor, sharing his mindset during some of his most iconic performances in American media.
“When I approached Gustavo Fring, I created space within the lines for the character to grow,” said Esposito. “I created a space for a character like Stan Edgar to look at someone in a way of disdain and say all these words because he wasn’t afraid.”
From his insight, Esposito revealed the intentionality behind his most memorable characters, showing how he brings depth to every role he pursues.
A Message to Future Generations
CSUF students and Breaking Bad fans pose inside Beyond the Conversation. / Credit: ASI Marketing, Communications & Design
As Esposito wrapped up, he left Titans one final message: “When you’re told you can’t, and you’ll never achieve something, let those words fall on deaf ears,” he urged. “Remember this: I am, I will, and I can.”
His words left the audience inspired, leaving students with the motivation to overcome any challenges.
After the conversation, CSUF Cinema and Television Arts student Jack Benuya expressed his admiration for the event, sharing, “Being able to see him in person is very memorable to me; it meant seeing one of my roles models and hearing his words.”
Esposito’s message made the event an unforgettable call for students to chase their dreams and trust their beliefs.
To learn more about Beyond the Conversation and Upcoming Student Programming Events, follow ASICSUF on Instagram or visit the ASI Programming Webpage.