Actor Giancarlo Esposito to Discuss ‘Breaking Barriers’ in Kean’s President’s Distinguished Lecture Series on Feb. 4

Emmy-nominated actor Giancarlo Esposito will share insight into the entertainment industry and his career journey as a biracial actor when Kean’s President’s Distinguished Lecture Series returns on February 4. 

A prolific actor in film, theatre and television who starred in the AMC hit Breaking Bad, Esposito will help kick off the University’s Black History Month celebrations with his message Breaking Barriers: Giancarlo Esposito on Art, Identity, and Redefining Success. The lecture begins at 4:30 p.m. in North Avenue Academic Building. 

"The President's Distinguished Lecture Series brings to our campus transformative voices who share unique perspectives on today's most relevant issues," said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. "Giancarlo Esposito's remarkable journey and achievements will resonate deeply with our students and community, inspiring them to pursue their own paths to success." 

Kean’s First Lady Darlene Repollet, a former corporate human resources executive who helps advance the University's mission of equity and excellence, will moderate a question-and-answer session with Esposito. 

Known for playing both villains and inspirational characters, Esposito received an Emmy nomination and won a Critic’s Choice Award for his portrayal of kingpin Gustavo “Gus” Fring in Breaking Bad. He recently appeared in the Netflix hit The Gentlemen. His upcoming appearances include Captain America: Brave New World, Electric State, and The Residence. 

Esposito was born in Europe, the second child of a Black American opera singer and an Italian theatrical set builder. He moved with his family to the United States and was cast in his first Broadway production at age 8.  

At Kean he will speak candidly about learning to embrace his racial identity as an integral part of his acting identity and will encourage those in the audience to find what they love to do and work toward success.  

Esposito is also expected to tell his story in a to-be-published memoir. 

The President’s Distinguished Lecture Series brings a range of prestigious speakers to campus. During the 2024-2025 school year, speakers have included former U.S. Senator Al Franken; human rights leader Ndaba Mandela, the grandson of the late Nelson Mandela; and autism advocate and animal scientist Temple Grandin, Ph.D.  

In April, Kean will welcome technology writer and podcaster Kara Swisher for a Distinguished Lecture on April 28. 

Tickets to all of the lectures are free for Kean students, faculty and staff but there is a limit of one ticket per person.  Tickets must be reserved in advance. Tickets are $20 for Kean alumni and the public. 

For further information or to reserve a ticket for the Esposito lecture, visit https://kean.vbotickets.com/event/Presidents_Distinguished_Lecture_Series_Giancarlo_Esposito/138978