Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 11, 2024 5:29 am GMT
As fans of the acclaimed television series “Breaking Bad” reflect on the show’s impact, a surprising revelation has emerged regarding the fate of one of its most beloved characters, Saul Goodman. Series creator Vince Gilligan and his team contemplated eliminating the character during the show’s finale, a decision that could have drastically altered the landscape of the “Breaking Bad” universe.
Saul Goodman: A Pivotal Character
Saul Goodman, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk, quickly became a fan favorite due to his cunning personality and sharp wit. His character not only provided comic relief but also played a crucial role in the development of the story surrounding methamphetamine manufacturing and the consequences that unfolded. The decision to keep Saul alive in “Breaking Bad” ultimately paved the way for his own prequel series, “Better Call Saul,” which has been praised for its depth and character exploration.
Writing Process: Decisions and Dilemmas
In a 2014 interview with Entertainment Weekly, Gilligan described the writing team’s internal struggles in deciding the fates of major characters as they crafted the series’ conclusion. Alongside discussions of killing characters like Jesse Pinkman and Skyler White, the talk of Saul’s potential demise underscored the uncertainty that hung over the writers during the final season. They even entertained the idea of a massive, action-packed finale that would leave little room for any characters to survive.
However, Gilligan and his team ultimately scrapped these plans after realizing the drastic impact they would have on the narrative. Acknowledging his character’s resilience, Gilligan noted, “Saul Goodman is kind of like a cockroach, in the sense that he’s probably going to survive all nuclear wars.” This metaphor highlighted the character’s inherent ability to navigate even the most challenging of circumstances, making his survival integral to the show’s essence.
Impact of Character Survival on Narrative
The decision to allow Saul Goodman to survive the events of “Breaking Bad” was not solely about the character himself; it also held significant implications for “Better Call Saul.” Gilligan recognized that killing Saul could create a lasting shadow over the prequel series, undermining its narrative and character development. The writers were keenly aware that the foundation they built in “Breaking Bad” could reverberate through their subsequent creations, thus influencing their decisions on character arcs.
Concluding the Series: The Importance of Walter White’s Demise
The narrative focus in “Breaking Bad” ultimately hinged on its protagonist, Walter White, played by Bryan Cranston. Gilligan emphasized that a satisfying conclusion necessitated Walter’s death. From his initial diagnosis of terminal cancer in the pilot episode, viewers witnessed his transformation from a humble chemistry teacher to a ruthless methamphetamine kingpin. The necessity for Walter’s demise became evident as the series progressed, signifying closure for not only his journey but also for the overarching themes of morality and consequence woven throughout the show.
Killing Saul, on the other hand, would have been difficult for the writing team to justify and develop in a meaningful way. Gilligan noted that they struggled to find the appropriate context for Saul’s character death, stating, “there just wasn’t that magical moment” to signal an acceptable conclusion for the character. This understanding led to their decision to retain Saul as a survivor, allowing him to seamlessly transition into the narrative fabric of “Better Call Saul.
The Broader Universe: Interconnections of Characters
The interplay of characters across “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul,” and the sequel film “El Camino” showcases the interconnectedness of their storylines. While several characters met their end during “Breaking Bad,” others, like Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks), continued to leave a mark despite their absence from the series. This web of relationships not only enriches the viewing experience but also emphasizes the complexities of morality and the consequences of choices made by the characters.
Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact
The decision to keep Saul Goodman alive has been met with appreciation from fans and critics alike. By preserving the character, Gilligan allowed for a more nuanced exploration in “Better Call Saul.” The prequel series has received accolades for its storytelling and character development, demonstrating that the creators made the right choice in letting Saul endure the violent world painted in both series.
As the legacy of “Breaking Bad” continues to thrive, it is evident that the decisions made behind the scenes significantly shaped the narratives and characters that resonated with millions. The careful consideration of character arcs, alongside the narrative focus on moral consequences, defines the enduring allure of this franchise.
Looking back, thinking about what happens to Saul Goodman reminds us how careful writers need to be when they create interesting stories. Both “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” have made a big impression on TV, and the choices made in these shows will stick with viewers for a long time.
