In the world of television, few characters have captured the essence of a morally ambiguous lawyer as well as Saul Goodman, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk in the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad and its equally successful prequel, Better Call Saul. Odenkirk’s portrayal of Goodman has not only been a defining role in his career but also a testament to the insightful casting decisions of Vince Gilligan, the mastermind behind both shows.
A Casting Decision Wrapped in Mystery
Bob Odenkirk’s journey as Saul Goodman began in the second season of Breaking Bad, where he first appeared in an episode aptly titled “Better Call Saul.” Despite the significant impact of this role on his career, Odenkirk recently admitted in WIRED’s Autocomplete Interview that he never asked Gilligan the pivotal question: why was he chosen for this role?
“I didn’t want to get kicked out of Breaking Bad,” Odenkirk revealed. “I didn’t want them to rethink their choice.”
This confession underscores the blend of anxiety and reverence that Odenkirk felt towards Gilligan and co-creator Peter Gould, who were both fans of his earlier work on the HBO sketch series Mr. Show with Bob and David. It seems their admiration for his performance in that series paved the way for his casting as the quick-witted attorney.
The Genius Behind the Camera
Gilligan’s brilliance was not lost on Odenkirk, who described him as “the smartest guy in the room” during the production of the series. Yet, Gilligan maintained a humble demeanor, never overtly displaying his keen intelligence or the intense effort he invested in the project.
“He’s got this performance that he does—you could call it the ‘aw shucks’ guy,” Odenkirk shared.
This understated approach allowed Gilligan to execute his vision effectively, making pivotal decisions that shaped the show’s direction and success.
The Legacy of Saul Goodman
The character of Saul Goodman was compelling enough that Gilligan and Gould decided to expand his story beyond Breaking Bad into Better Call Saul. Originally intended as a spin-off, the show began development during the production of Breaking Bad‘s final season in 2013 and has since delved deeper into the backstory of the colorful lawyer.
Odenkirk’s portrayal of Goodman earned him six Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor, a testament to his skillful performance and the character’s resonance with audiences. This recognition is complemented by his previous Emmy win for writing, adding to his well-rounded achievements in the industry.
Conclusion
Bob Odenkirk’s reticence to inquire about his casting might have left him with an unanswered question, but it also led him to a role that would define a significant portion of his career. His portrayal of Saul Goodman remains a high point of television programming, showcasing his dynamic range as an actor and writer. It also highlights the astute choices made by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, who recognized Odenkirk’s unique ability to bring the charismatic and cunning attorney to life.
