Born in Berwyn in 1962, Bob Odenkirk developed a multifaceted career across television and film as an actor, writer, and director. Following his formative education at institutions including Southern Illinois University Carbondale and the College of DuPage, he gained prominence through influential contributions to sketch comedy before transitioning into critically acclaimed dramatic television and high-stakes cinematic roles.
Early Career and Television Writing
Odenkirk launched his professional writing career on Saturday Night Live in 1987, where he remained until 1991. He subsequently wrote for The Ben Stiller Show, earning a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series in 1993. His television trajectory continued with writing credits for Late Night with Conan O'Brien and a recurring role as Agent Stevie Grant on The Larry Sanders Show between 1993 and 1998.
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He co-created and starred in the HBO sketch series Mr. Show with Bob and David alongside David Cross, later reuniting for the Netflix series W/ Bob & David in 2015. Odenkirk expanded his creative remit into feature film directing, beginning with Melvin Goes to Dinner in 2003, followed by Let's Go to Prison in 2006 and The Brothers Solomon in 2007. He also wrote the film Girlfriend's Day.
Dramatic Roles and Recent Work
His profile shifted significantly with his portrayal of Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and its subsequent spin-off, Better Call Saul. Beyond television, he has appeared in films including Nebraska, The Post, and Little Women. In 2021, he starred in and produced the action film Nobody, with a sequel following in 2025. His 2025 Broadway debut in Glengarry Glen Ross earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play.
Fast facts
- Born: 1962, Berwyn, United States
- Education: Naperville North High School, College of DuPage, Marquette University, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Ithaca College
- Notable TV Work: Saturday Night Live, Mr. Show with Bob and David, Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul
- Directorial Debut: Melvin Goes to Dinner (2003)
- Professional Membership: Writers Guild of America West
- Primary Occupations: Actor, screenwriter, comedian, producer, director
Questions readers ask
What major writing awards has Bob Odenkirk received?
He won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series in 1993, among other Emmy recognitions.
Which schools did he attend?
His education included Naperville North High School, College of DuPage, Marquette University, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and Ithaca College.
Achievements
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series — 1993
- Emmy Award
- Educated at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Naperville North High School and Marquette University
- Worked as film producer, film director and comedian
