Saul Goodman, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk, is one of the most colorful and memorable characters in Breaking Bad. Known for his flashy wardrobe, over-the-top persona, and morally questionable ethics, Saul became a fan-favorite almost immediately after his introduction. He provided comic relief in an otherwise intense show while also serving as a key player in the criminal underworld.
But as the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston) unfolded, Saul’s role evolved from that of a comic character to a vital part of the series’ dark narrative. By the end of Breaking Bad, Saul Goodman’s fate was left somewhat ambiguous. So, what really happened to Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad? In this article, we will delve into the trajectory of Saul’s character in Breaking Bad and explore what we know about his eventual fate, including his appearance in the spin-off prequel, Better Call Saul.
The Rise of Saul Goodman
Before we dive into Saul Goodman’s final fate, it’s crucial to understand how the character came to be and why he became so integral to the Breaking Bad universe.
A Lawyer for the Criminal Underworld
Saul Goodman, whose real name is James Morgan “Jimmy” McGill, first appeared in Breaking Bad during the second season. He was introduced as a flashy, morally flexible criminal lawyer who had a knack for getting his clients out of sticky situations. Saul’s legal services were primarily directed toward those who needed help in the criminal world. With his unorthodox approach, Saul found success in a world of criminals, drug dealers, and underworld figures.
As Breaking Bad progressed, Saul became more than just a legal advisor to Walter White and Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul). He was a vital cog in Walter’s growing empire, handling everything from money laundering to legal cover-ups. His colorful personality, which was a mix of humor, sarcasm, and quick thinking, provided a perfect foil to the intense drama of the show.
Moral Ambiguity and Comedic Relief
Saul’s character brought much-needed comedic relief to Breaking Bad. While Walter White’s descent into criminality was marked by darkness and tragedy, Saul’s involvement in the story allowed viewers a glimpse into the absurdity of a world run by criminals and schemers. However, beneath the comedic moments, Saul was a deeply flawed character. His legal expertise and charisma often disguised his willingness to compromise on ethics and use any means necessary to get what he wanted. This moral flexibility became a major point of interest in his character arc.
Saul’s Role in the Final Season of Breaking Bad
By the time we reach the final season of Breaking Bad, Saul’s role has evolved. While still maintaining his comedic persona, Saul became more involved in the increasingly dangerous world of Walter White. His legal advice grew more desperate, and he increasingly relied on underhanded tactics. However, as the stakes became higher, it became clear that Saul’s position was growing untenable.
The End of the Line for Saul Goodman
Saul’s final appearance in Breaking Bad occurs in the episode titled “Granite State,” the 15th episode of the fifth and final season. At this point, Walter White’s empire has crumbled, and he is on the run from the law. Saul’s future is uncertain, and he realizes that the walls are closing in on him. His fear of arrest and retribution is palpable.
In the penultimate episode, Saul decides to flee Albuquerque and go into hiding. He arranges for a new identity and a new life in Nebraska, where he will live under the alias “Gene Takavic.” This marks a significant turning point in Saul’s character. He is no longer the charming, confident lawyer who could talk his way out of any situation. Instead, he is reduced to a man running from the consequences of his actions, realizing that there is no escaping the wreckage he helped cause.
What Happens to Saul Goodman After Breaking Bad?
The Gene Takavic Era
While Saul Goodman’s fate remained a mystery at the end of Breaking Bad, we later learned more about his life after the events of the series through the spin-off prequel Better Call Saul. Better Call Saul explores Jimmy McGill’s transformation into the morally compromised lawyer we know as Saul Goodman. However, it also gives us glimpses of Saul’s life after the collapse of Walter White’s empire.
In Better Call Saul’s flash-forward scenes, we see Saul Goodman living as Gene Takavic, the manager of a Cinnabon store in Omaha, Nebraska. This transformation is stark and unsettling. Gone is the flashy suit and bravado of Saul Goodman, replaced by the quiet, paranoid existence of Gene. His days are spent in a monotonous routine, trying to avoid any attention and remain under the radar.
At this point, Saul is no longer the man who once ran a criminal empire. He is a shadow of his former self, terrified of being recognized or caught. The bright, self-assured lawyer is now just another man hiding from his past. His paranoia is evident in the scenes featuring Gene, and he goes to great lengths to keep his past a secret, often taking extreme precautions to avoid detection.
Why Did Saul Choose This Life?
Saul’s decision to assume the identity of Gene Takavic and live a life of quiet anonymity raises many questions. Was it out of genuine fear for his life, or was it a way for him to atone for the actions of his past? Saul’s transformation from a cocky criminal lawyer to a humble, frightened man indicates the toll that his life of crime and deceit had on him. His choice to live as Gene suggests that Saul, or rather Jimmy McGill, finally acknowledged the consequences of his actions and the people he had hurt.
In Breaking Bad, Saul was often portrayed as a man who was always one step ahead of everyone else. He was quick-witted, resourceful, and fearless in the face of danger. However, by the end of the series, it becomes clear that Saul’s machinations have caught up with him. His decision to flee and assume a new identity is symbolic of the fact that, in the end, there is no escape from the past.
Conclusion
So, what happened to Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad? The character’s fate is both tragic and poignant. He was once a man of power and influence, able to manipulate the system to his advantage. But by the end of the series, he is left a shadow of his former self, running from the consequences of his actions. His decision to go into hiding as Gene Takavic reveals the deep remorse and fear he felt as a result of his involvement in Walter White’s downfall.
Saul Goodman’s fate is a reminder that, no matter how clever or resourceful one may be, there is no escaping the consequences of a life lived on the wrong side of the law. His journey from a morally questionable lawyer to a man hiding from his past is a powerful exploration of guilt, fear, and redemption.
