Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman unveiled a surprising transformation over the weekend, prompting comparisons on social media to Walter White, the well-known meth-producing chemistry teacher portrayed by Bryan Cranston in AMC’s “Breaking Bad.”
Sharing a selfie on X, previously referred to as Twitter, Fetterman explained, “Lost a bet with Karl.” The photo displayed his new appearance, featuring chunky eyeglasses and a thick mustache, while his distinctive gray goatee had vanished.
Despite not disclosing the details of the bet he had made with his 13-year-old son, the 53-year-old freshman Democrat’s snapshot ignited a flurry of reactions from online users.
“Breaking sad,” one critic snarked.
“ITS TIME TO COOK,” posted Eric Torres.
In a further twist, an edited portrait of Fetterman emerged, accompanied by the caption “Am I the knocks who one?” This muddled rendition of the iconic catchphrase “I am the one who knocks” was intended to satirize the senator’s verbal slip-ups following his stroke in 2022.
Twitter/@JohnFetterman
©AMC/courtesy Everett Collection
However, some individuals appeared to express their endorsement of Fetterman’s new appearance. Charles Mathewes, a University of Virginia professor, commented, “Got a bit of Walter White there, useful for negotiations.”
Following a stroke in May of the previous year, which coincided with Pennsylvania’s Democratic Senate primary, the ex-Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania experienced hearing impairment and cognitive challenges. Notably, he chose not to reveal the full extent of his condition to the electorate.
A survey conducted in June highlighted that Fetterman’s job performance faced disapproval from 50% of Pennsylvania voters, while a mere 39% expressed approval.