Bob Odenkirk Says He ‘Turned Gray’ and ‘Was Gone’ During Heart Attack on “Better Call Saul” Set

**Bob Odenkirk Reflects on Life-Changing Heart Attack and Renewed Outlook**

Actor Bob Odenkirk, best known for his role as the scheming lawyer Saul Goodman in the acclaimed television series *Better Call Saul*, has recounted the harrowing details of a near-fatal heart attack he experienced on set in 2021. Speaking at the London screening of his latest project *Normal*, Odenkirk recalled the traumatic moment when he collapsed during filming, an experience that has profoundly altered his perspective on life.

The incident occurred while Odenkirk was shooting the sixth and final season of the popular prequel to *Breaking Bad*. At the time, Odenkirk, now 63, was unaware that he was about to face a major health scare. His co-stars, Rhea Seehorn and Patrick Fabian, were quick to respond to the crisis, frantically attempting to assist him. Odenkirk described their distress vividly, noting that they were “screaming” after he lost consciousness.

However, the pandemic restrictions in place at the time created a delay in the response from medical personnel on set. With crew members spread out due to safety measures, assistance was slow in arriving. “I was gone. I turned grey,” Odenkirk recalled, sharing the stark imagery of his collapse. When the medic eventually arrived, he was unfortunately unfamiliar with CPR, adding to the gravity of the situation.

After a week of being in a medically induced coma, Odenkirk awoke in a hospital bed, having lost crucial time during the crisis. He described his first recollection as being discharged from the hospital, realising the extent of what had transpired during his unconsciousness. The heart attack was later diagnosed as a “widowmaker,” a severe type that involves a blockage in the left anterior descending artery, the Cleveland Clinic explains.

Following this life-altering event, Odenkirk experienced a significant shift in his outlook on life. He has since referred to the health scare as a “blessing,” expressing gratitude for the new perspective he gained during a period of reflection. “That was such a gift,” he shared, emphasising the joy and engagement he felt towards life in the aftermath of the incident.

In response to the experience, Odenkirk has made several adjustments to his lifestyle. He has adopted a healthier diet, focusing on reducing sugar intake. Additionally, he complies with a daily medication regimen that includes aspirin, a statin to manage cholesterol, and the beta-blocker metoprolol, which helps to lower blood pressure.

Staying physically active has also become a key part of Odenkirk’s routine. He explained that he continues to participate in stunt training—an aspect of his career that he has embraced even more vigorously since the heart attack. Odenkirk attends the gym twice a week for stunt fighting sessions with his trainer, Daniel Bernhardt.

Despite the health scare, he has chosen not to shy away from action-heavy roles, as he believes that maintaining his fitness will make it easier to step back into those demanding characters. He candidly stated, “Once I stop, I think it might be a little intimidating to get back,” illustrating his commitment to staying engaged with his craft.

Recently, Odenkirk collaborated with longtime friend and colleague David Cross on a documentary titled *Bob and David Climb Machu Picchu*. This project, along with his ongoing pursuits in film and television, showcases Odenkirk’s resilience and determination to thrive both personally and professionally.

As he continues to navigate his career while prioritising his health, Bob Odenkirk serves as a powerful reminder of the ways in which life’s challenges can reshape our perspectives and motivate us to cultivate a more vibrant, healthy existence.