HBO goes 'Eastbound & Down' starting Feb. 15

AMC has set a return date for its series "Breaking Bad," while HBO has put the new comedy series "Eastbound & Down" on its schedule.

"Breaking Bad," for which Bryan Cranston won an Emmy last year, will begin its second season on Sunday, March 8. Cranston also directed the season premiere.

The show will pick up more or less where it ended things last year, with Cranston's Walt White struggling with the consequences of becoming a meth manufacturer in order to secure his family's financial future. The new episodes find Walt and his partner, Jesse (Aaron Paul), face growing suspicion about their activities, and Walt feels even more urgency to provide for his family.

"On the heels of Bryan Cranston's Emmy win, this second season delivers bolder and more surprising storylines that truly push the envelope," AMC president and general manager Charlie Collier says. "The powerful performances from this talented cast will keep viewers on the edge of their seats and captivated by the many worlds of Walt White."

HBO's "Eastbound & Down" stars Danny McBride ("Pineapple Express") as a washed-out ex-ballplayer who moves back to his hometown to teach gym at a middle school. It's set to debut Sunday, Feb. 15, where it will be paired with "Flight of the Conchords." Katy Mixon ("Four Christmases"), John Hawkes ("Deadwood") and Andrew Daly ("Semi-Pro") also star.

Will Ferrell and Adam McKay are among the show's executive producers. Ferrell will also guest-star, and McKay ("Anchorman") and "Pineapple Express" helmer David Gordon Green will direct episodes.