Second season will see 'Breaking Bad' go from seven to 13 episodes

AMC is feeling pretty good about "Breaking Bad."

The network has ordered up a 13-episode second season for the quirky original, which stars Bryan Cranston as a New Mexico chemistry teacher who goes from meek and mild family man to drug kingpin.

"From critical praise to strong ratings and a devoted audience, 'Breaking Bad' further reinforced AMC as a top producer of high-quality, distinctive television," blurbs Charlie Collier, EVP and general manager of AMC. "'Breaking Bad' is a powerful, intelligent and thought-provoking series that clearly resonated with viewers and critics alike. We're excited for a second season of 'Breaking Bad' with new and provocative storylines that will delve deeper into the next chapter in the life of Walter White."

The seven-episode first season of "Breaking Bad," which premiered in January, boosted AMC's primetime averages in most key measures, particularly among young male viewers.

Created by Vince Gilligan ("X-Files"), the series also stars Anna Gunn, RJ Mitte, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris and Betsy Brandt.

"'Breaking Bad' has been such a labor of love; the pickup is validation in our belief that the viewers would embrace this show," says Jamie Erlicht, co-president, programming and production, Sony Pictures Television.