“Breaking Bad” Producer Worried Bob Odenkirk’s ‘Silly’ Saul Goodman Would Ruin the Series

Breaking Bad Producer Expresses Concerns Over Bob Odenkirk’s Saul Goodman Potentially Ruining the Series

In a new book titled ‘Saul Goodman v. Jimmy McGill,’ Peter Gould, co-creator of ‘Better Call Saul,’ reveals his apprehension over the character Saul Goodman, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk, potentially derailing the popular series. Gould shares insights on how the character almost didn’t make it to the screen and the challenges faced in integrating him into the storyline.

As one of Breaking Bad’s most iconic characters, Saul Goodman went on to headline his own Emmy-nominated prequel series, Better Call Saul. However, Gould confesses that Goodman’s creation was primarily driven by serving Walter White’s narrative in Breaking Bad, rather than being a standalone figure with a future of his own.

Gould, who also wrote the episode ‘Better Call Saul’ where Odenkirk’s character was introduced, admits to having doubts about Saul’s fit within the show. He feared that Saul’s flamboyant and quirky persona might overshadow the grounded nature of Breaking Bad, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of the series.

Despite initial reservations, Gould persisted with the character, facing pushback from AMC executives who expressed concerns over Saul Goodman’s portrayal. He recounts a tense conference call where the network questioned the direction of the character, but ultimately deferred to Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan’s vision for the show.

The decision to retain Saul Goodman proved pivotal, as the character evolved into a central figure in Breaking Bad, earning Odenkirk a promotion to series regular and setting the stage for the spin-off, Better Call Saul. The prequel delves into Saul’s backstory and transformation, garnering critical acclaim and accolades for Odenkirk’s portrayal.

Better Call Saul offered a deeper exploration of Saul’s origins as Jimmy McGill, shedding light on his journey from a struggling lawyer to the morally ambiguous persona of Saul Goodman. The series not only complemented Breaking Bad’s narrative but also stood on its own, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling and compelling character arcs.

Odenkirk’s performance in Better Call Saul earned him multiple award nominations, cementing his place as one of television’s standout actors. The success of the series not only validated Gould and Gilligan’s vision but also solidified Saul Goodman’s legacy as a complex and engaging character in the Breaking Bad universe.

As Better Call Saul concluded its final season in 2022, fans were left with a sense of closure and admiration for the intricate storytelling woven throughout the series. Odenkirk’s portrayal of Saul Goodman/Jimmy McGill remains a testament to the enduring impact of compelling characters and meticulous storytelling in the realm of television.

In retrospect, Gould’s initial concerns over Saul Goodman’s integration into Breaking Bad serve as a reminder of the creative risks and rewards inherent in shaping complex characters within a narrative. The evolution of Saul Goodman from a supporting player to a central figure underscores the importance of storytelling integrity and character development in crafting memorable television experiences.

In conclusion, Bob Odenkirk’s Saul Goodman may have initially raised eyebrows, but ultimately, he became an integral part of the Breaking Bad universe, enriching the show’s legacy and paving the way for a successful spin-off series that captivated audiences worldwide.