Why Did Hank Never See the Truth About Walter?

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hey everyone! Thanks for watching. It's fascinating and tragic how Hank's denial kept him from seeing the truth about Walt. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you ignored something obvious because it was too hard to accept, just like Hank? Share your experiences below and let's discuss how we can all learn to spot these moments in our own lives!

[@submersed8434]

How are you gonna pin a comment on a video with over 25k views and forget to remove that part. You’re too old to be sloppin it up on KZbin with AI sloptoppington brubruh

[@GoofballMcGee]

It's not just that. He underestimates Walt because he sees Walt as weak.

[@ConstantinosAspris-ie8mg]

Well gee, thanks Doctor.

[@Ziggerath]

that basically falls into what he was saying anyways.

[@Sam_Martyn]

He thought he was weak up until a certain point, Hank even commends Walt for trying his best for his family with his cancer, so what you said is true. But only up until a point.

[@michaelt3614]

That is exactly what he is alluding to. Literally right into the beginning of the video

[@whupwhup98]

I saw that video too lol

[@shodlookinlikeasnack8739]

Imagine your brother in law who has cancer and who you don’t think is a tough guy is a drug lord

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Exactly-it’s such an unfathomable leap! Hank saw Walt through such a fixed lens that the idea of him being a drug lord wasn’t even in the realm of possibility.

[@nathancornwell1455]

A master chemist , after getting cancer starts all this bizarre behavior and suddenly comes into all this money. There were so many signs. His association with Jesse Pinkman which he knew was involved with methamphetamine.

[@douglaswarden2584]

....that's what is known as superior writing, superior directing, AND superior acting.

[@LooseOnTheGoose]

You're right, a masterclass performance that barely gets mentioned

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Absolutely! It's a testament to how well-crafted storytelling can create layered characters and believable dynamics. What's fascinating from a psychological perspective is how all these elements work together to immerse us in the characters' blind spots, like Hank's denial, making their actions feel both inevitable and human.

[@pootisengage6672]

Tv drama with big budget. Nothing special

[@Bendanna93]

Budget alone wouldnt make a show ​@@pootisengage6672

[@bowserknight]

And Superior Breaking (Bad)

[@Probably_Deadpool]

What makes Hank feel even more betrayed by Walter is that Walter was the only man who could match him in knowledge on Minerals.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It was like, 'Not only were you a drug lord, but you were faking our whole rock-loving bromance?!' ;)

[@Probably_Deadpool]

@ Exactly

[@lakeside1168]

@@DrPatrickKingsepThat’s the real dagger twist

[@gabsmarg4048]

The funnier part is that when you grow up in a red flag park you only see red flags

[@jessewright8930]

That “ you got me” is so chilling but funny at the same time 😂

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Your so right. The way Cranston says it is almost unnerving!

[@pr0pagandhi511]

I never wondered that. Hank looked down on Walt. Hank never really had respect for Walt and saw him as weak. Hank is kind of a macho that believes in manly manlyness and Walt is (used to be) a wimp. No way Hank would admit to himself that his wimpy, weak brother in law would be able to outplay him like this until he had proof in his hands that was so overbearing that he couldn't deny it.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you for pointing that out! Hank’s perception of Walt as weak and unthreatening likely stemmed from a rigid belief in traditional masculinity or a dominance-oriented mindset. This perspective could have made it difficult for him to see Walt as capable of outsmarting him. It’s a fascinating example of how personal biases and overconfidence can distort judgment, even when the truth is staring us in the face. Thanks for sharing such a thought-provoking observation!

[@supersaiyanzero386]

Yes. And as Walt became more "alpha" or masculine in his behavior it became more believable over time.

[@jessewright8930]

This is how my brother laugh when I said I knew someone who can move weight for my cousin y til his bestfriend told him who I be around.

[@c.w.k.n.5117]

​@DrPatrickKingsep When Jessie tells Hank he can't win because Walt is the Devil, he's smarter than you and he's luckier than you... Instead of slowing down a bit or "treading lightly," he just stream rolls ahead, goes into macho manly man mode and tells Jessie to basically just shut up and do what he says. "This is not a brain storming session!" So even after finding out he was Heisenberg, and being warned about his cunning and ruthlessness, he still didn't really see Walt for the threat he was and that blind spot got him killed. Hank should have went to the DEA bosses and reported Walt immediately.

[@jackd6881]

One of the other reason Walt broke bad in the first place was because of Hank basically trying to emasculate him and take the place of the father for his son right after the cancer diagnosis. Hank was a bad friend imo.

[@LucianDevine]

You forgot about the most damning piece of evidence, the piece that actually got Hank back into looking at the case after he'd given his assessment to the APD, and that's drunk Walt all but admitting that he's Heisenberg. He accused Gale of copying the work of someone else and that the real Heisenberg is still out there. Yes, he'd been allowed to see the notebook. So he's making this assessment based on things he's allowed to know and his experience as a teacher, but there is absolutely no reason to say it except for his own ego. The book was the final piece of the puzzle for Hank, but if not for drunk Walt and his ego, even seeing that book might not have broken through Hank's denial. It was only after he looked at all the evidence again with a fresh perspective, because of drunk Walt, that he's able to put it all together.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

You're absolutely right-Walt's drunken confession was a pivotal moment. It highlights how Walt's ego consistently undermines his attempts at staying hidden. Without that slip, Hank might not have had the push to reexamine the evidence with fresh eyes. The book was definitely the final nail in the coffin, but as you pointed out, it was Walt’s own hubris that cracked open the door for Hank to revisit everything. Such a great observation-thanks for sharing!

[@brendonw456]

Well...calling it a "confession" is QUITE a reach. He says that Gale looks like his notes were copying someone else's work and that Heisenberg "may still be out there". He doesn't explicitly state Heisenberg IS still out there. He isn't confessing, but his ego doesn't like that someone else is getting credit for his work. He is fine with Heisenberg being unknown...but he is not fine with Heisenberg being credited to someone else entirely.

[@LucianDevine]

@@brendonw456 That's why I said "...all but admitting..." He didn't explicitly confess that he was Heisenberg, but his drunk words get Hank to immediately go back through ALL the evidence, including the sketch. While it doesn't lead Hank directly to Walt, it gets him close enough that when he sees the book, it confirms it for him. If Walt keeps his mouth shut, Hank seeing the book might not have given him the eureka moment.

[@brendonw456]

@@LucianDevine You are correct. The reply used the word "confession", not you, so that is my bad. However, you did still say that Walt says Heisenberg *is* still out there versus *may* still be out there. Either way, we agree that Hank did go back to investigating because of this. Just that single word does...implicate Walt *a lot* more, and Hank probably wouldn't have even needed that book to open his eyes. So yeah, this moment definitely is Walt's biggest mistake. I do think it was also pretty foolish of him to keep that damn book out in the open like he did too. Could have at least kept the thing in his nightstand. Even that would be better than sitting on top of the toilet

[@LucianDevine]

@@brendonw456 I think I wrote it that way, because it was a list of things that Walt was "...all but admitting...". That's why I wrote it more definitively where Walt said it more speculatively.

[@nayR5]

You know a show is well written when trained psychologists can examine these characters the same way they would real people.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

The depth of these characters is so compelling that each morning seems to spark a new perspective, often tied to psychological mechanisms like cognitive dissonance, denial, or attribution bias. The way these dynamics are woven into the narrative makes the show an endless source of meaningful exploration.

[@GiftSparks]

The show is an incredibly important story about love. It just seems like Hank, Marie, Skylar and Walter spent a LOT of time together, Honestly, I can’t imagine spending that much time with my in laws. They genuinely loved each other. Look at Walt’s reaction when Hank is murdered in front of him. “Love” isn’t just about romantic love. That passes soon. This is one of the most genuine depictions of love on TV.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s such a beautiful observation. The show really does capture love in all its complexities-familial, platonic, and flawed. This could make for a great idea to examine how love manifests in unconventional ways throughout the show, beyond just romantic connections. :-)

[@GiftSparks]

@ thank you. The same can be said for Better Call Saul. Kim and Jimmy’s relationship is incredibly loving. For as scummy a person as Saul was, Jimmy was a very devoted partner. If you have ever read Love Languages, you could write a treatise about how the characters show love in BB and BCS.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

@@GiftSparks ...once again another great idea. I actually speak about the 5 love languages in session with clients. Could also look at how full their 'love tanks' are. Thanks 🙂

[@brandepp1]

What’s also amazing is how Walt being a master manipulator, was able to use this weakness Hank had to his advantage, like in the scene where Walt drives up to the DEA van to distract him while Jesse told badger to swap seats. Walt new from day 1 that his brother in law was too egotistical to suspect him being Heisenberg.

[@brandepp1]

Walt and Hank were both egotistical but in different ways and you see this contrast of ego throughout the show.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Walt played Hank like a fiddle, exploiting his ego at every turn. That van scene is such a perfect example of Walt’s genius and how he stayed one step ahead by knowing exactly how Hank thought.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Great idea for a future video....'Walter and Hank Ego Differences'....thanks :-)

[@advancedbasicsAB]

@@DrPatrickKingsep Yes! That would be so fascinating!

[@Shadow-7295]

As someone who has experienced something related: this video is explains what is going very well. Facing the truth can be incredible hard and painful. Blissful ignorance is often easier, at least in the short-term.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you for sharing your perspective-it sounds like you've had some deeply personal experiences that connect with the ideas in the video. You're absolutely right: facing the truth can be incredibly painful and often feels like an uphill battle, especially when ignorance offers temporary relief. But that short-term ease can come at the cost of long-term growth and clarity. It takes courage to confront those hard truths, and I appreciate you highlighting just how difficult-but ultimately meaningful-that process can be. Wishing you strength on your journey, and thank you for watching!

[@YOPPA_kampala]

experienced something related? gtfo

[@ImJustBob]

​@@YOPPA_kampala "stuff happens in real life? no it doesnt!"

[@keithwellerlounge74]

It wasn’t ‘blissful ignorance’ though, he literally never suspected him at any point. He never even considered him until he went for a shit that day. It wasn’t like he ‘knew deep down’ and didn’t want to admit it.

[@lukewoodworth2101]

I just realized at 2:13 when hank says walter white he says it almost like he's asking or wondering what walters reaction would be to see if walter was heisenburg

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Great catch! That moment is so subtle but packed with tension. It’s like Hank is testing the waters, trying to gauge Walt’s reaction without fully committing to the idea himself. Such brilliant writing and acting!

[@peanutbutter7721]

​@DrPatrickKingsep I always took this as the first time Hank even considered it. He says it slowly because in his mind hes also concurrently running back over the evidence and whether it could be Walt

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

@@peanutbutter7721 That makes so much sense-Hank’s slow delivery feels like his brain is scrambling to piece everything together in real time. It’s such a powerful moment because you can almost see the flood of realizations hitting him all at once.

[@evildoesnotsleep-x2b]

Hank was so obsessed with himself in the way many men are that it prevented him from seeing clearly. He couldn't fathom how one would best him, especially someone he had deemed unworthy. He was a bully and bullies aren't known for their insights

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That's such an interesting take-Hank’s ego and his need to dominate really might’ve blinded him to the truth staring him in the face. Bullies definitely tend to underestimate others, and Walter used that perfectly.

[@thelastmelon9446]

Hank always underestimated Walt. That's why he never suspected him. He didn't consider his brother-in-law to be man enough to handle a gun nevermind a drug empire responsible to the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of people. Realising Walt was Heisenberg was a massive blow to his pride because he discovered that Walt had completely owned him for so long

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It's like Hank had this fixed image of Walt in his mind: the nerdy, harmless brother-in-law. He never truly saw Walt, the man who was capable of incredible darkness. And that's what allowed Walt to become Heisenberg.

[@herretik2287]

Hank had a black-white view of reality. He didn’t assume Walter was Heisenberg because he already had him in his mind as a good person. Then, the moment he connected the dots, physical violence was no longer off the table. Similarly, he had no issue brutally beating up Jesse because he knew him as a bad guy, and was honestly just looking for an excuse. It’s even seen in the scene in the bar where he sees people dealing drugs and kill-switch immediately turns on.

[@petermj1098]

Hank beat up Jesse because he thought Jesse lied about his wife being in the hospital. Hank was already going through PTSD due to the cartel and the thought of Marie being hurt made him go berzerk on Jesse. The act of beating Jesse wasn’t justifiable but it is understandable considering Hank was going through trauma. Hank’s story is about a prideful man embracing his humble side, while Walter’s story is about a humble man embracing his prideful side. Hank said to Flynn everyone knows Pablo Escobar but nobody knows the people who took down Pablo Escobar. Walter’s gained pride being the next Pablo Escobar and Hank gained humility being the person who tried to take down the next Pablo Escobar.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s such a sharp observation! Hank’s black-and-white worldview really shaped how he judged people and situations. He compartmentalised Walt as 'good,' which blinded him to the idea that Walt could be capable of something as dark as being Heisenberg. And once that perception flipped, his response was immediate and aggressive-almost primal. The same goes for his interactions with Jesse, where his 'bad guy' label gave Hank the justification he needed to act without restraint. The bar scene you mentioned is a perfect example of how Hank operates: the second someone crosses into his 'bad' category, his moral switch flips completely. It’s fascinating how his rigid thinking both helped and hindered him throughout the series.

[@AholeAtheist]

Yes, Hank is low IQ. This isn't rocket surgery.

[@spikemufc]

Great video! Vince Gilligan's decision to portray Hank and Marie as childless was also an excellent choice. Hank views Walt as an exemplary role model for his children - a quality Hank lacks since he has none of his own. This further reinforces Hank's perception of Walt as a family man incapable of wrongdoing.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s such an insightful observation! Hank’s view of Walt as a family man definitely adds to the complexity of his denial. The lack of children in Hank and Marie’s lives could have heightened Hank’s admiration-or even envy-of Walt’s role as a father, further blinding him to the darker truth. It’s incredible how these subtle character details contribute to the show’s depth. Great point!

[@danielslubski1028]

ill add,Hank liked Walter very much, yes he looked at Walter from above,but he was like the little wimp brother,who needs to be protected and teached.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Absolutely, Hank had this almost protective, older-brother dynamic with Walter. Even though he looked down on him in some ways, it came from a place of affection and a sense of duty. That dynamic made the eventual betrayal hit even harder.

[@weirdguy1495]

It's a mix of Walt being too meek for most of Hank's time of knowing him and him being much more trusting of his family than he otherwise would be.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

You’re absolutely right-it’s that combination of Walt’s meek demeanor and Hank’s natural trust in his family that creates such a strong blind spot. Hank sees Walt through the lens of years of shared experiences, which makes it nearly impossible for him to connect the man he knows with someone capable of running a criminal empire. That dynamic adds so much to the tension and tragedy of their relationship!

[@arserobinson7118]

It wasn't denial so much, Walt just had the perfect cover of being family to Hank and that he was a timid, kindly, middle-aged, average 9-5 family-orientated guy that could never be involved in any kind of serious crimes, let alone Meth. It was impossible to see through even for an experienced, expert DEA Agent like Hank, it was a cover that fooled everybody. Only person to see through Walt was Skyler, but that was because she lived with him and noticed his disappearing for hours on end, his association with Jessie, his odd, secretive behaviour and the fact she got a confession out of him.

[@MrRyan-wu4jx]

All that started to fall apart though and he knew Walt was having personal issues. In reality I think Hank would have realized the day Walt intentionally got in a car accident to prevent Hank from going to the laundry but they stretched it out more for the sake of the story.

[@LonghornsLegend]

Skyler never really saw through him, it was just he built so many lies that started to fall apart she put it together. I mean he was full time cooking meth and disappearing and she suspected nothing. It wasn't until she called his mom and Gretchen that she put it all together but he otherwise had fooled everyone

[@nickchavez720]

Its more than just denial. Hank is a great detective and his skills are often shown. But even the best detective has trouble seeing the clues when its so close to home. Hes known Walt for years, cares about him despite how he treats him, and has a very ingrained image of who Walt is in his head. He has no reason to suspect that Walt is Heisenberg because hes frankly too close to the prime suspect to see it. If Hank never met Walt he probably would've caught him right away.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hank’s closeness to Walt creates a huge blind spot. His image of 'good old Walt' makes it nearly impossible to see him as Heisenberg. If Walt were a stranger, Hank’s sharp instincts probably would’ve caught him right away. That’s what makes their dynamic so fascinating!

[@XandateOfHeaven]

I think the trick here is to view Hank's perspective as you might see a family member secretly cooking meth, and not as the audience who knows everything. If you had an unremarkable brother in law who taught high school, you probably would never think of him secretly running a meth business.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Viewing it from Hank’s perspective really highlights how our assumptions about people close to us shape what we’re willing-or able-to see. It’s a great reminder that we all filter situations through our own biases and expectations, especially with family. Thanks for bringing that up-it’s such a crucial angle in understanding his denial!

[@williambrown3427]

Nailed it. Never in the history of ever has there been a DEA agent assigned to find a new high level drug dealer, only for it to be his nerdy brother in law who had no criminal history for the first 50 years of his life. You can’t blame Hank for not seeing it I don’t think.

[@XandateOfHeaven]

@@williambrown3427 it does make me think of how many people historically have gotten away with crime because they weren't the obvious suspects.

[@jannetteberends8730]

My ex brother-in-law is a criminal. When he was arrested, I couldn’t believe it. He was such a nice guy, lived in a modest house, had a modest car. I was convinced there was a mistake made. But after he was convicted, it was on the front-page of my, national quality paper. Only then I started to believed it. He wasn’t even a little criminal, he was a big one. We are a family that mostly works in education and healthcare, just law abiding middle class people.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thanks for opening up about this. It sounds like the impact of his arrest was immense, and I can only imagine how difficult it must have been. It's completely natural that you initially struggled to believe it. Our minds tend to reject information that clashes with our understanding of the world and the people in it. We create mental pictures of those around us, and when those pictures are abruptly ripped apart, it can be incredibly unsettling.

[@AholeAtheist]

Was he really a criminal though? What did he do?

[@jannetteberends8730]

@ yes, he was. Don’t know the exact details. But it had to do with money laundering.

[@GG-bw3uz]

Basically every character in BB that Walt eliminated chronically underestimated Walt to the extent of ignoring threats they would have taken into account had it been someone other than Walt. Walt's biggest superpower is not his intellect. It's his camouflage of being weak and not a threat.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Walt’s greatest weapon is how unassuming he seems-people consistently overlook him because they see him as harmless. It’s that underestimation that gives him the upper hand time and time again, making his rise to power so compelling to watch.

[@oztheman6177]

Alot of people dont talk about the whole gambling thing as much as they should. Hank should have caught on then. Such a b.s. story for Walter to all of a sudden became an amazing gambler.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Great point! The gambling cover story really is a stretch, and it’s surprising how easily Hank bought into it. But it speaks to how much Hank trusted Walt and probably didn’t think he was capable of anything darker. That trust, combined with Walt's ability to stay just convincing enough, let such an implausible story slide under the radar.

[@LilHarvey]

the gambling thing isn't THAT crazy in my opinion. everyone around walt knew he was super smart and he 100% would have the ability to learn how to count cards and cheat and whatnot. it's still should've been obvious to hank that walt was heisenberg though.

[@oztheman6177]

@@LilHarvey naw the Gambling thing was lazy writing. That we all accepted

[@mickvd4]

@oztheman6177 No, its not. It is set up well and thoroughly explored and explained in the series. We the audience are biased because we know the truth.

[@oztheman6177]

@mickvd4 No, for them to just believe that Walt would take the family's savings and his pension and just gamble it away. Win or lose, was dumb.

[@AM1465]

Pilot: Meek school teacher turns meth cook Episode 2: His brother in law catches him _"How we gonna make 5 seasons now Vince?"_

[@joshuaruv2742]

Sometimes a man's pride can be both his biggest strength and also his downfall

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Walt’s story captures that duality perfectly, showing how his greatest asset became his undoing.

[@pedrerrique]

Wow, amazing analysis. Thank you!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

You're very welcome! I'm glad you found it helpful. It's always interesting to dive deep into the characters and their motivations. I so appreciate you sending good vibes my way :-]

[@bringoni]

it's incredible how well Dean Norris portrayed these emotions on screen. The performances in this show are just phenominal.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Absolutely! Norris really nailed the complexity of Hank's denial. It's a masterclass in portraying that gradual shift from dismissal to suspicion to the devastating realization. The whole cast is phenomenal, but he really brings those emotional layers to life.

[@aa1589]

Hank and Skylar's disrespect created Heisenburg. Everyone has an ego and an agenda. Gentle and respectable men like Water White are constantly trampled on by overbearing and unjustified egos who feel entitled to get their way at others' expense. They become victims of their own faith that everyone else thinks like them and aren't assholes who demand more than they deserve. Everyone longs for a world where that type of person can win, but that's just not how society works... so we cheer him on as he discovers his pride and becomes the type of person that can destroy even the most hardened predators of the world.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s an interesting take! Hank and Skyler’s attitudes definitely played a role in Walt’s sense of inadequacy and need for control. It’s like Heisenberg was Walt’s way of reclaiming power in a world where he felt dismissed.

[@luckysevens70905]

Its like in mafia: you sit by your best bud and talk w him throughout the game, looking at others trying to figure it out, you would never suspect it to be your friend.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

There’s manipulation, deception, and misplaced trust everywhere. Hank’s dynamic with Walt is a prime example: Hank’s blind spot for Walt stemmed from their familial bond and the trust that comes with it. It’s that same dynamic that makes the eventual revelation so devastating-it’s like realizing the person you trusted most was the one pulling the strings all along. Great analogy!

[@lilithdemonia74]

Hank wasn't in denial. He simply had no reason or evidence to link Walt to Heisenberg. "I took you on a drug raid and a couple months later this new variant shows up, yep, you're the mastermind Heisenberg!"

[@q-petebassin2557]

There was a lot more that he should have picked up on. He was in denial. It’s quite obvious. Considering how he found about Gus but never suspected Walt proves that he was what this video states, almost exactly. Here’s some examples Hank is well aware of Walt’s intelligence. He is aware that he is the co founder of a massive company, and a genius in chemistry. All the sudden, he takes an interest in having a ride along. Soon after, a never-before-seen product is on the market by some mystery man who they can tell is a rookie in street knowledge, but a master in chemistry, which they make clear in season 1 w hank and gomey’s dialogue while reviewing the footage of the break in at the plant. Walter all the sudden is missing all the time, which hank and Marie were aware of. Hank even makes a mention of how he thinks Walt is having an affair because he says, “he has a dead end life, gets diagnosed, so he steps out of line”. Right there hank should have started having a suspicion. He had already established that there was a new, pure product, cooked by presumably a chemistry genius, who has 0 street knowledge. OH and this mystery man is associated w Jessie pink man, a former student of Walter, who hank knows sold him weed. Then, in season 3, hank is surveying Jessie’s house looking for the rv, and calls Walt about it. Walt acts suspicious and within a few minutes Jesse is freaking out and leaving the house which leads him right to the rv. That right there should have been it. Nothing happens for days, but right after he calls Walt Jesse leads him to the rv. Oh and then, somehow Jesse’s gains access to his wife’s cell number. Let’s add another, Walt suddenly becomes a millionaire, oh and Skylar suddenly kicks him out and keeps the kids. Oh and they buy a car wash. But it’s “gambling” money apparently. Then gale happens. He mentions in his book his lab partner. So gale, a nerdy chemistry genius, would be working with presumably another nerdy chemistry genius. With what was already established w Walt, suddenly a millionaire, goes missing all the time, chemistry genius, associated w Jesse pink man who hank knew was associated w Heisenberg, goes missing at the same time he finds Jesse involved w tuco, I mean it was all there. He was in denial and this video is 100% accurate

[@tor112233]

this is a silly comment

[@kennydude7971]

Why Hank didnt know it was Walter? It was in the script.

[@eliasvasquez7322]

Bravo Vince! 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@JusticeSleuth]

This is so good!!!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much! It means a lot to know you’re enjoying the content. More to come soon!

[@GeorgiaEnglish88]

I thought Hank picked up on it at the appropriate pace. Incredible writing and acting that they struck that balance. To be fair to Hank, it’s completely insane that his meek emasculated brother in law is the ruthless drug king pin he’s chasing. Greatest show universe of all time (inclusive of BCS).

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

The slow burn reveal was perfect. It makes you wonder, though...was Hank choosing to be blind to Walt's activities? Maybe his ego wouldn't let him see the truth?

[@GeorgiaEnglish88]

@@DrPatrickKingsep I was actually extremely impressed with Hank’s detective abilities and intuition. I forget, did Gomez suspect something first?

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

@@GeorgiaEnglish88 After Hank was shot, Gomez seemed overly confident that "no one's getting to Hank" again. This could imply he knew Gus was behind the attack and wouldn't risk another attempt. But who knows....this is why we need another good detective ;)

[@gabriellamariabolognini2823]

I think that another reason he denies to see Walter as Heisenberg is because he feels to be better than him. He has shown many times to be arrogant and narcicistic

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Well put :) It's interesting how Hank's personality might be influencing his perception of Walt. There's a tendency for people with strong egos to have difficulty accepting that someone they view as inferior could outsmart them. It creates a sort of blind spot, where they dismiss evidence that contradicts their self-image. In Hank's case, this could be contributing to his inability to see Walt for who he really is.

[@gabriellamariabolognini2823]

@@DrPatrickKingsep yes, it is exactly what I meant :) thank you very much for your response

[@Toebex]

There are so many issues in my life I know I am being willfully blind about, I don't want to end up like hank. It is just so easy to let them go and try to find other ways around them.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It takes a lot of courage to recognize that, and it’s a powerful first step. Denial can feel like the easier path, but over time, it often keeps us stuck in the same patterns. Hank’s story is a great reminder of how much our biases and avoidance can shape our decisions. Facing those issues, even in small, manageable steps, can lead to clarity and growth. You’re already ahead of the curve by acknowledging it-keep going, and be kind to yourself in the process.

[@Envinex21]

Underrated content keep up the good work!

[@LinkinParkConnoisseur]

This was such a good video

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much. Very much appreciated. These comments help me continue digging into the next creation to brings enjoyment to others. Thanks again :-)

[@LinkinParkConnoisseur]

@@DrPatrickKingsep excited to see what topic you explore next :)

[@lovelylibra7349]

Poor hank he deserves better than the unalive he got

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Yeah, it's rough. Hank was a good guy caught in a bad situation. He definitely deserved a better ending. Great use of the term, 'unalive'. It's one of the most tragic parts of the whole story. 💔

[@AholeAtheist]

LOL. No he didn't.

[@AholeAtheist]

@@DrPatrickKingsep False. Hank is the villain.

[@studgerbil9081]

Same reason he didn't care about his wife's shoplifting. He's more of a mobster than a law-enforcement agent.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s an interesting comparison. Hank’s moral flexibility definitely shows at times, like when he looks the other way with Marie’s shoplifting. It hints at a complex side of him-one that’s willing to bend the rules when it suits his personal life.

[@battoch8574]

wtf how does this have less than 1k views u made a great video dude

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

You are too kind. Thank you so much :]

[@HappyYummmy]

im hi on crak and sayz 11k000 views

[@submersed8434]

Cuz it’s ai slop

[@Ace-rp7vr]

I think the reason Hank punches Walt when he admits to him that he’s the criminal mastermind was because he was mad at Walt and felt super betrayed and hurt

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That punch was pure emotion-Hank’s anger and sense of betrayal just boil over in that moment. It’s not just about Walt being a criminal; it’s about the deep hurt of realizing someone he trusted and loved had been deceiving him all along.

[@mary_nenufary]

Great video! I'd add one more element that I think played into Hank's denial - his compassion/pity for Walt. It felt like he'd let so many suspicious things Walt's done slide, blaming it on what he perceived as illness related crisis. I don't think he'd be THAT lenient, were the odds different - maybe he still wouldn't uncover the Heisenberging in its entirety, but he'd definitely sniff around more.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Great point. This is what I love about the KZbin community! Hank's compassion for "dying" Walt definitely blinded him. He excused suspicious behavior as desperation, giving Walt way more leeway than he normally would. If Walt hadn't been "sick", Hank's cop instincts would've kicked in much sooner. It shows how emotions can cloud even the sharpest minds.

[@venus-ji2lj]

I’ve wondered about this for a long time. Thank you so much for this good explanation and this great video!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you for watching and engaging with the video! I'm really glad the explanation resonated with you-it’s always rewarding to hear when something clicks for viewers.

[@venus-ji2lj]

@ Of course! Keep the great content up!!!

[@oztheman6177]

Great video! I will definitely be checking out your channel

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the support and hope you enjoy the other videos on the channel. Let me know your thoughts if you check out more-I’d love to hear your perspective!

[@lordnoot9865]

This character arc is amazing. Hank goes from seeing Walt as a weak man to being shot down by Walt’s men and truly seeing who he is

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hank’s journey is incredible-watching his perception of Walt completely shatter as the truth unfolds is such a powerful shift. It’s a devastating, eye-opening transformation.

[@hardy16able]

It’s the old fallacy of: „the enemy is out there and I’m safe at home.“ While in reality it’s the other way around. Most murder victims knew their killer, were their wifes, girlfriends, relatives etc. The infamous back alley thug is statistically much less likely to encounter us. The Pelicot case in France one again proved how little we know about our closest ones and how easy we can be deceived, because we don’t want to think the worst about them.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It's true that the "stranger danger" idea is often misleading. We build these narratives about threats lurking in the shadows, but reality is far more complex. The Pelicot case, like so many others, forces us to confront the darkness that can exist within seemingly ordinary people, even those we share our lives with. It's a harsh reminder that we can't afford to be naive about the potential for violence and betrayal, even in our closest relationships. It's not about living in fear, but about cultivating healthy skepticism and trusting our gut instincts. Sometimes the most dangerous monsters wear familiar faces. Unfortunately, I have seen this through the descriptions of some of my clients. Chilling but true.

[@bosmosis]

It also seems significant that Marie was a compulsive shoplifter, and this ends up severely straining her relationship with her sister. Openly suspecting Walt of dealing drugs would have come off as a bit rich coming from Hank, who seemed to decide to look the other way if Walt was dabbling in pot, as they thought early on. It was as if Hank thought that if Walter had his little naughty secrets, Hank was going to consider it none of his business.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That's a great point about Marie! It highlights how denial often operates within families. Hank might have subconsciously downplayed Walt's actions because acknowledging them would mean confronting his own wife's transgressions and the dysfunction within his own family. It's a classic case of 'sweeping things under the rug' to maintain a sense of normalcy, even if it's a fragile one.

[@Strawhatcuhlub]

This is such a well put together & thought provoking video!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you! I’m glad the video resonated with you. It’s always rewarding to know the analysis sparked some thought-comments like this mean a lot. :-)

[@Strawhatcuhlub]

@ of course! As a big fan of Breaking Bad, your effort put forth in this video is greatly appreciated!

[@Zyxyea]

wow! great video, and always good to see creators being active in the comments. i see some other comments making the same points i have such as the traditional masculinity blinding him because of walts perceived weakness. keep up the great work doc! you deserve many more subscribers!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much for your kind words and support-it really means a lot! The idea of traditional masculinity blinding Hank is such a fascinating perspective. It ties into how rigid gender norms can limit emotional insight, especially when someone like Walt presents a facade of weakness. Hank's perception of strength and dominance might have made it hard for him to reconcile the truth about Walt, even as the evidence mounted. These ingrained beliefs can act like blinders, shaping how we interpret the people around us. I’m glad you’re diving into these themes-it’s viewers like you who make exploring this content so rewarding! Please take care :-)

[@peace1177]

Great video… I’ve been through this and remain alert and open minded to the question you posed… It will take me my whole life to get to work out this whole business…

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts-it sounds like you've been through some profound experiences that really resonate with the themes in the video. The idea of staying alert and open-minded is such a powerful approach, especially when it comes to grappling with complex situations or relationships. Life often feels like a constant process of working things out, and the fact that you’re engaging with these questions shows so much self-awareness. Wishing you all the best on your journey, and I’m grateful the video could contribute to that reflection! :-)

[@-illusion2d-116]

Great video and perspective 🫡

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much-really appreciate that! Comments like this fuel my passion and keep me inspired to create more content.

[@k3pthidd3n45]

Great and interesting video! But might I give you a little tip? I would highly suggest you give away in the title / thumbail, that this is not just any person who reviews hank's psyche and situation, but a clinical psychologist and doctor. That's one major point why your video heavily sets itself apart from other videos. I just kind of noticed that I found that a reason I liked the video a lot more, but I couldn't see it beforehand.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you for the thoughtful suggestion! I hadn’t considered how highlighting my perspective as a clinical psychologist could make the video stand out more. It’s a great point, and I’m really grateful for your insight-it helps me see how I can connect better with viewers like you. I’ll definitely keep it in mind moving forward!

[@keithwellerlounge74]

Because, in reality, it would never happen. People don’t have normal lives for 50 years then become drug lords within a few months. It was completely unrealistic for him to be a suspect. Plus, the script said so.

[@kseniya_bell]

Amazing video! Thank you

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hi @kseniya_bell -- thank you so much. This adds fuel to my tank to keep publishing! :-)

[@christinebeames712]

Great summation

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thanks! Glad you found it helpful. This is what fuels my creator engine 😊

[@MrTehRave]

Nice clean content, enjoyed it, easy watching

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

I appreciate hearing that you enjoyed the video! My goal is to create content that’s both engaging and meaningful, so it’s great to know it made for an enjoyable watch. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@MrTehRave]

@DrPatrickKingsep much love ❤️

[@SebastianOliva]

Got yourself a new follower, not just for the pop psy but for the valuable insights. Keep on! :)

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much for joining the channel! It means a lot to hear that the insights are resonating with you. I’m always aiming to strike a balance between accessibility and depth, so it’s great to know the content stands out. Looking forward to exploring more thought-provoking topics with you! Take care :-)

[@dabigred1000]

Great video! I was very surprised checking and seeing that you only have a couple thousand views. Keep up the good work!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement-it means a lot! I really enjoy creating these videos and diving into the psychological dynamics of characters like Hank and Walt, so hearing that you appreciate the content is incredibly motivating. Growing the channel is definitely a journey, but comments like yours remind me why I started in the first place. Thanks again for watching and for your support! 😊

[@melaniemanning2462]

He didn't respect Walt. He did respect a criminal mastermind. Sorry, but not denial, just complete dismissal.

[@localfatty4364]

My new favorite channel

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That means so much-thank you! Hearing this is what recharges my energy and keeps me motivated to keep creating and sharing more. Glad you’re enjoying the content!

[@diguifi0fficial]

awesome analysis

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate your kind words-it means a lot to know the analysis resonated with you. :-)

[@chihuahuapocalypse]

I just need everyone to know I shouted "NOOO" and broke into tears when Hank died. I'm so upset about it. I just finished the show yesterday in one huge binge, and I watched El Camino today, so I'm still reeling from it. absolutely fantastic series. next is Better Call Saul

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hank's death was such a gut punch. His journey made him so relatable, and his final moments were devastatingly powerful. Sounds like you’ve been on quite the Breaking Bad rollercoaster! Better Call Saul is incredible too-it adds so much depth to the Breaking Bad universe. You’re in for a treat!

[@S.pilgrim]

Fascinating! I thought you conveyed your thoughts in an easy to understand manner, even for a simpleton like myself. You’ve earned yourself a sub!

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you so much for the sub and the thoughtful comment! I really appreciate your support, and trust me, engaging with these ideas is no small feat-it shows a lot of curiosity and depth. Glad to have you on board!

[@christopherjames4486]

If I had a dime for every family member of mine I missed that was a meth kingpin.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Could that stash of dimes help you start your own empire!? ;)

[@Yolduranduran]

I think it was pure pride that kept him from accepting Walts genius 😮

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It's like he can't handle the idea that Walt, this guy he always thought was beneath him, is actually a genius criminal mastermind. It just bruises his ego too much to admit that Walt was playing him all along.

[@AholeAtheist]

It was his low IQ. That's it.

[@IanStrika]

How curious, I was just rambling in my head about a painful breakup I had this year and this video helped me a lot to understand myself and how I reacted at the time: it was all denial, I couldn't see things for how they were, my perception of the situation was blinded by the love and trust I had. Thanks for the insightful reflection, it really helped me

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Sharing what you did likely resonates with alot of us! I am glad this video sparked some useful self-reflection for you. Breakups are incredibly tough, and it's common to experience denial when processing that loss. It sounds like you're gaining valuable insight into your own reactions. Please take care :-]

[@jennifurx6176]

He thinks Walter can’t even lift a gun.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

I still wonder to this day, whether Walter was just 'play acting the weak persona' when he 'seemed' not able to lift the gun!?

[@jennifurx6176]

@ he was lack of confidence at the time, during his b day party

[@Sharkeisha1]

We are all guilty of this

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Absolutely, it's such a universal experience, isn’t it? Denial can sneak up on all of us in different ways-it’s part of being human. Recognising it is the first step, and honestly, that’s something Breaking Bad shows so well through Hank's story.

[@peterhill8398]

Excellent video! Very thought provoking. It made me think about some historical examples of denial I have read about. One example was in the immediate aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbour in Dec 1941, a US Army Air Corps airman was overheard to be complaining that the US Army authorities shouldn't make their air raid drills so realistic! And no, he wasn't being ironic, he was quite serious. He simply refused to accept the reality of what was right in front of him, such was his shock and disbelief. Likewise, personnel at one of the Army air force airfields on Oahu initially refused to believe they were under attack even when the location was strafed by a lone Japanese fighter. They simply assumed it was a cocky US Navy or Marine pilot shooting up the field with blanks. I think it relates to Hank's denialism. The truth is too shocking to bear, it threatened to tear away the comforting assumptions he had about his world. Better to put his hands over his eyes and say 'this is not happening, it's not happening'. Another example is how slow the British Intelligence services were to uncover the 'Cambridge 5' Ring of Englishmen who were spies for the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The American CIA were exasperated & bewildered at the reluctance of their British counterparts in MI5 & MI6 to properly investigate the Cambridge 5, even when there was solid evidence of their espionage activities right under their noses. It was due to denial caused by the collective conceit & vanity of the senior members of British intelligence who were, at the time, almost exclusively from expensively educated upper class backgrounds, the same backgrounds that the Cambridge 5 had come from. 'How could these Englishmen be spies, they're public-school-educated types just like us!' In a way, its related to how Hank felt about Walter- 'how could Walter be a monster? After all, he's family'.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Such a thought-provoking comment-thank you for sharing! The Pearl Harbor disbelief and the Cambridge 5 examples beautifully highlight how denial serves as a shield against shattering truths. For Hank, accepting Walter as Heisenberg meant dismantling his entire sense of reality, much like those intelligence officers refusing to see betrayal in their own ranks.

[@swandaley]

Another great video idea is Walt's rationale for becoming a drug dealer despite having a DEA brother in law. Most people would be scared to do that if they were in his position.

[@marksargent2440]

I remember when hank take walter for a drive and he asks him what do you do with all the drugs and cash you find oh we just destroy it all.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Classic Heisenberg! 😈

[@seancrowley3142]

Denial is a POWERFUL thing. My girlfriend was smashing one of my colleagues at work for TWO years. Looking back on it, all the evidence was in front of my face and I never saw it. Eventually, one of my friends told me about it and as soon as he told me, it was like a light switch went off in my head. I have never wanted to kill somebody but I did that day. Denial is a real thing! I know exactly how Hank feels.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It's interesting how you connect that to Hank's situation. Maybe, in a way, Hank wanted to believe the best about Walt. Or maybe he just couldn't fathom that his own brother-in-law could be capable of such things! It just shows how TV and Movie events sometimes mirror what we all experience at some stage in our lives! I can't imagine the range of emotions you must have felt that day. It's a testament to your strength that you were able to process it all and move forward.

[@seancrowley3142]

@ thank you very much. Life is about moving forward and learning from past experiences. I figured that my experience with denial is more classic than Hank’s. I don’t think there are many of us who have relatives who are making drugs right under our noses 😄

[@fie4426]

I've had my fair share of denial. Glad that's gone now.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Do you think your own experiences with denial helped you connect with Hank's character in a deeper way? I'm curious how that might have influenced your analysis in the video.

[@shooooooooopi]

i believe hank subconsciously realized day one. he just couldn’t accept it. complete denial

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s a fascinating take! It’s possible Hank’s subconscious picked up on subtle inconsistencies early on, but his conscious mind buried them because accepting the truth about Walt would shatter his entire worldview. Denial can be incredibly powerful when the alternative feels too devastating to face. Thanks for sharing such an intriguing perspective!

[@Loch1210]

No

[@EnjoySackLunch]

lol no

[@BurninLikeMagic]

Impossible

[@lelio422]

When Hank came to Walts classroom and started taking inventory of the chemistry supplies should have been the lightbulb moment. What would it have taken to put a tail on him for a few days afterwards?

[@WarriorOfcinema]

When hank says 'Walter white' you can see for a second in his face it wasn't out of a Sarcastic or jokey tone but a genuine seriousness mixed with other complex emotions running within his mind for seconds, Honestly great acting from dean Norris

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Dean Norris conveys so much with just a brief expression-shock, betrayal, and the weight of realization all at once. It’s a testament to his skill as an actor and how well he captured Hank’s internal conflict in that pivotal scene. Truly unforgettable! For some reason, I kept replaying that scene!

[@hypnov]

i feel like hank saw the world in black and white, good and bad. walt was already in that “good” category so he didnt even consider him

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

An insightful take. Hank’s rigid worldview made it hard for him to reevaluate people once he’d categorized them. Walt fit neatly into the 'good' box, so Hank never questioned it-until the evidence forced him to confront a reality that shattered his black-and-white perspective.

[@BlLLY]

I love this breakdown

[@EnjoySackLunch]

Breakdown is an underrated thriller. JT Walsh’s tour de force

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the breakdown of Hank. His journey is such a complex mix of denial, ego, and personal biases-it’s fascinating to explore what made him tick. Appreciate you watching!

[@Gamfluent]

Hanks masculinity and hubris, but also obviously he could never suspect someone close to him doing it

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hank’s pride and need to assert his dominance likely clouded his judgment, but it’s the emotional weight of trusting family that really sealed the deal. It’s hard to see betrayal when it comes from someone you’ve let into your inner circle.

[@BLUEDELUCA]

Early on it was clear Hank felt threatened by Walt’s intelligence and he dealt with that insecurity by creating this distorted image of Walt. That distortion blinded him to any possibility that Walt could ever be a physical threat capable of violence.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Good point. Hank's distorted image of Walt likely helped him manage his own insecurities about Walt's intelligence, but it also created a blind spot. Seeing Walt as weak and non-threatening made it psychologically easier for Hank to dismiss any suspicions, even when the evidence started adding up.

[@AmanSingh-xk1me]

I mean realistically there's a lot of people that could be Heisenberg. We are just feeling so cuz we are following the story from both end. Especially if you know someone as long as Hank and Walter.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

You're absolutely right-our dual perspective as viewers gives us an advantage Hank never had. When you’ve known someone like Hank knew Walt, it’s easy to dismiss things that don’t fit the image you’ve built of them. It’s a fascinating look at how familiarity and assumptions can blind us to what's right in front of us. Thanks for sharing this insight!

[@tomthexton7813]

Can someone explain why they got into that argument by the pool about the bottle of liquor? Was Walter just drunk and angry because of his diagnoses. Or was he also angry that Hank was acting like he was Walt Jr's Dad??

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That poolside argument is about more than just liquor. It's a power struggle fueled by Walt's fear of mortality, Hank's alpha male persona, and Walt's resentment of Hank's influence on Walt Jr. The tequila just brings those simmering tensions to the surface. Walt wants to assert his authority and masculinity, while Hank wants to maintain control and protect Walt Jr. It's a clash of egos and a pivotal moment that foreshadows the deeper conflict to come. I'm interested to know what others are thinking?

[@Gordon.Pinkerton]

"Why did Hank Never See The Truth About Walter?" He actually did, I watched the show, so I can confirm this fact for you.

[@ericmackrodt9441]

Hank is such an amazing character. The whole show, all characters are amazing. The casting is perfect.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Hank's a unique character! He's complex, well-developed and at times there is a degree of 'this wouldn't happen'. But, that is the power of an amazing cast, crew and script.

[@michaelgarza2569]

Please do a video on Lalo. I would love to see your analysis of him

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

This is an idea I am in the process of writing about and researching. I just started last week fleshing it out. Lalo's a smooth operator, but underneath that charm, he's ice-cold. He loves the game, enjoys toying with people, and violence is just another tool to get what he wants. His first meeting with Gus, says it all. Yet it was just the beginning! Please stay tuned!

[@michaelgarza2569]

@ awesome, thanks for the quick insights too

[@D-Fens_1632]

Everyone conveniently forgets that in the pilot, Hank is looking for a notorious local who goes by "Captain Cook," which happened to be Jesse's license plate that was parked outside the raid on Walt's ridealong, and that Krazy 8 was apparently cooperating. Or was it Emilio? Same difference.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

That’s a great observation-it’s easy to overlook those early details that planted seeds for the whole story. Jesse was right there under Hank’s nose from the beginning, and with Krazy 8 the pieces were closer to falling into place than anyone realized. It’s fascinating how the show layers these connections so subtly yet meaningfully.

[@Yano5151]

Denial is also a river in Egypt

[@TrentAdam]

It actually makes sense to me he wouldn't suspect him. The way Hank knows him, it's a genuinely absurd concept.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Absolutely-it does make sense! From Hank’s perspective, the idea of Walt running a meth empire would seem completely out of character. It’s a testament to how deeply our perceptions of people are shaped by our relationship with them, often blinding us to possibilities that seem obvious to an outsider. That’s what makes Hank’s realization later on so impactful!

[@AholeAtheist]

It makes sense because Hank is [redacted].

[@theM4R4T]

Wouldn't call that denial. Denial implies deep down he knew the truth. Hank didn't think of Walter as a man and thus not capable of those crimes.

[@johnnyoldenjr.]

Nope, hank thought walt was weak end of story and by the end walt wanted to show hank that he wasn't weak.

[@chrislewis5069]

Well Gus fring and the cartel were the masterminds, Heisenberg was mostly an employee

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Totally-poor Walt, always underestimated. Hank couldn’t see past the image of the mild-mannered, struggling family man. It’s ironic how that worked in Walt’s favor for so long.

[@switchunboxing]

He had no reason to. Nothing really led to him and there wasn’t any evidence pointing to him.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Exactly-there was nothing concrete tying Walt to Heisenberg early on. Walt’s unassuming nature and lack of any prior criminal behavior made him an unlikely suspect!

[@carldexter5330]

to also add here; if you rewatched the series, Hank is the only person that Walt has never lied to. example: when they were carrying bags of money Hank asked him if why it is so heavy? then Walt said there's a half a million cash in that bag, but Hank just shrugs it off

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Even though Walt is deceiving everyone around him, he maintains a strange honesty with Hank. Perhaps it's because, on some level, Walt craves Hank's approval. Or maybe it's a subconscious attempt to maintain a connection to his "old life" and the person he used to be. It also highlights Hank's unwavering trust in Walt. He takes that "half a million in cash" comment as a joke because he can't fathom that Walt would actually be involved in anything illegal. It's a testament to how deeply ingrained Hank's perception of Walt is. These discussions help us see Breaking Bad in a new light. :-]

[@middlenameawesome]

I don’t think Hank is blind to Walt being Heisenberg as a result of any “defensive mechanisms”. There’s never any hint of Hank being even a little suspicious of Walt. Whenever Walt does suspicious things he doesn’t even recognize it as suspicious. Hank thinks he knows what criminals look like, and Walt doesn’t fit the bill. I believe this is what creates hanks blind spot. I would even go as far as to say Hank wouldn’t have suspected Walt even if they had zero family ties.

[@jplosts]

It's also pretty real. These types of lies come crashing down in weird and monotunous ways...

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Big lies often unravel not with dramatic flair but through quiet, everyday moments where things just don’t add up. It’s what makes the show so grounded and relatable despite its extreme storylines.

[@arnold2491]

I think perspective also matters,of course we got the full image,but in all the family scenes the only image Hank gets is that Walt is deteriorating from his disease,all the intrusive questions choked up to him trying to be close with his family in his final time,all this on top of the fact that Hank's psyche wouldn't just simply accept that Walt was the murderous,almost mythical Heisenberg

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

It’s easy to dismiss Walt’s behavior as desperation from someone facing mortality. Hank’s mind couldn’t reconcile that image with the ruthless Heisenberg, which makes his eventual discovery all the more crushing.

[@joseayala8506]

That scene in the Mexican restaurant made me feel as uneasy as the bar scene in Inglorious Bastards. Granted it didn’t end up in a bloody massacre but still you felt the same kind of tension.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Absolutely, that scene was dripping with tension-the kind where every word feels like it could ignite chaos. Imagine if Quentin Tarantino and Vince Gilligan came together!?

[@Robert-cd2ox]

People simply cannot see their family objectively. That's why no judge is allowed to pass judgment on their own family.

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

Emotional ties seriously get in the way of judgment, making it nearly impossible to view family objectively. In BB, Hank’s blind spot for Walt perfectly illustrates this-his trust and familial bond kept him from seeing the truth until it was undeniable.

[@resterAnonyme]

Denial is not just a river in Egypt

[@DrPatrickKingsep]

...and this is where the Nile and denial come into play ;)