The fourth season of the American television drama series Breaking Bad premiered on July 17, 2011 and concluded on October 9, 2011.

[16] At the 2011 Television Critics Association press tour, it was announced production on the season would begin January 13, 2011.

The site's critics consensus reads: "Breaking Bad's fourth season continues to evolve and subvert expectations, and it's never been more riveting to watch.

[25] The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette labelled the series "smart and thought provoking that elevates the artistic achievements of the medium".

"[30] Best-selling author Noah Charney called it "the best show on television" and compared it to great works of literature for its three-dimensional characters and combination of action, drama, and dark comedy.

[32] Bryan Cranston received his second consecutive Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series.

[34] Vince Gilligan received his first nomination for a Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directing – Drama Series for "Face Off".

[45][46] Kelley Dixon and Skip Macdonald were each nominated for an Eddie Award for Best Edited One-Hour Series for Commercial Television.