While much of the entertainment industry’s attention is currently focused on the influx of celebrities descending upon Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII, actor Bob Odenkirk recently made a quieter, but no less noteworthy, appearance in San Francisco. Last weekend, before the Super Bowl hype took hold, Odenkirk was in town participating in SF Sketchfest, the annual comedy festival.
Odenkirk, best known for his roles as Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and its spin-off Better Call Saul, performed at the festival’s immersive Speakeasy event alongside comedian Dana Gould. RIFF Magazine described their performance as “a refreshing slap in the face,” highlighting the unexpected delight of seeing the actor in such an intimate setting.
This appearance at SF Sketchfest is particularly interesting given Odenkirk’s recent career trajectory. While he built a strong reputation as a character actor and comedic writer for decades, he surprised audiences with his leading role in the 2021 action film Nobody. The film, which showcased a previously unseen physicality from Odenkirk, proved to be a box office success and redefined public perception of the actor.
The San Francisco Chronicle detailed how Nobody transformed Odenkirk into an action star, a shift that challenged expectations and opened up new opportunities in his career. Prior to Nobody, Odenkirk was largely recognized for his comedic timing and dramatic range within the confines of television. The film allowed him to tap into a different skillset, proving his versatility as a performer.
SF Sketchfest, now in its 2026 iteration, continues to be a significant event on the comedy calendar. The festival, which runs from to this year, features a diverse lineup of established and emerging comedic talent. The San Francisco Chronicle recently highlighted 11 must-see events at this year’s festival, demonstrating its continued relevance and appeal.
Odenkirk’s participation in SF Sketchfest underscores the festival’s ability to attract high-profile talent, even amidst major events like the Super Bowl. It also speaks to the actor’s continued engagement with the comedy community, despite his growing success in other genres. His appearance wasn’t a grand, publicized event, but rather a more intimate performance that resonated with fans and critics alike.
The choice of venue – the Speakeasy – further emphasizes the unique atmosphere of SF Sketchfest. The festival is known for its immersive experiences and unconventional settings, offering audiences a chance to connect with performers in a more personal way. The RIFF Magazine review specifically noted the immersive nature of the Speakeasy, suggesting it provided a particularly fitting backdrop for Odenkirk and Gould’s performance.
Interestingly, while Odenkirk was enjoying the San Francisco comedy scene, other celebrities were arriving for Super Bowl-related events. SFGATE reported that an actor from Breaking Bad (presumably Odenkirk) dined at House of Nanking in San Francisco’s Chinatown. This seemingly casual outing highlights the blending of entertainment worlds – the high-profile spectacle of the Super Bowl and the more grassroots energy of a comedy festival.
SF Sketchfest’s 2026 lineup, as highlighted by the San Francisco Chronicle, demonstrates the festival’s commitment to showcasing a wide range of comedic styles. From improv to stand-up to character work, the festival offers something for every comedy fan. Odenkirk’s presence, alongside established comedians like Dana Gould, reinforces the festival’s reputation as a platform for both established and emerging talent.
The festival’s continued success, even in the shadow of a major sporting event, speaks to the enduring appeal of live comedy and the importance of platforms like SF Sketchfest in fostering a vibrant comedic community. Odenkirk’s appearance served as a reminder of his comedic roots and his willingness to engage with audiences in a more intimate setting, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the larger-than-life spectacle of Super Bowl week.
