Bob Odenkirk isn’t slowing down anytime soon—especially when it comes to action films.
The 63-year-old actor, best known for “Better Call Saul,” recently shared that he has no plans to step away from physically demanding roles, even after a life-threatening health scare just a few years ago.
Speaking to PEOPLE at the premiere of his latest film, “Normal,” Odenkirk opened up about how staying active has actually become a key part of maintaining his well-being.
Odenkirk Reveals How His Health Is
“Oh, it’s good. It’s good,” he said of his health. “And I’m still going to the gym for stunt fighting. I go twice a week with my same trainer, Daniel Bernhardt.”
That commitment to training has helped him continue performing in high-energy roles, including his return to the action genre following “Nobody.”
Rather than viewing these projects as a risk, Odenkirk sees them as motivation to stay in shape.
His outlook is especially notable given what he went through in 2021.
While filming the final season of “Better Call Saul,” Odenkirk collapsed on set after suffering a serious heart attack.
Crew members rushed to help, using an AED multiple times to revive him before he was transported to the hospital.
Later, he learned it was a “widowmaker” heart attack—a severe blockage in a major artery that can often be fatal.
Despite that frightening experience, Odenkirk hasn’t let fear dictate his career choices.
If anything, it’s pushed him to be more intentional about how he approaches his work and his health.
“Because once I stop, I think it might be a little intimidating to get back,” he explained. “But if I keep up the basics, then it’s not so scary to just amp it up in time for a movie.”
That mindset has allowed him to continue doing what he loves while staying mindful of his limits. Instead of stepping away from action-heavy roles, he’s found a rhythm that keeps him prepared without overextending himself.
Odenkirk Has Been Open About His Heart Attack
Odenkirk has also reflected on how the experience changed his perspective on life.
In a recent interview with NPR, he described waking up from a medically induced coma and feeling a surprising sense of peace.
“I didn’t have the experience that a lot of people have where they see their life flash before their eyes,” he said. “There was very little trauma for me. What there was… was this lingering joy… I remember thinking, I have to remember this. I have to try to live this way.”
He went on to describe a renewed appreciation for the world around him, calling it “pretty magical and beautiful and astounding.”
