Bob Odenkirk's breakthrough role in the acclaimed series "Breaking Bad" had one fascinating origin: a beloved HBO series that showcased how comedic actors can shine in dramatic roles.
It’s remarkable to consider how Bryan Cranston, initially known for his quirky portrayal of Hal in the lighthearted sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle," transformed into the intense character of Walter White, a cancer-stricken chemistry teacher who descends into the drug trade. Supporting this dramatic evolution was Bob Odenkirk, who embodied the conniving attorney Jimmy "Saul Goodman" McGill. Originally, Odenkirk was invited to join for just a handful of episodes, but his performance was so compelling that it turned into a significant role that extended even further into the spin-off series "Better Call Saul."
Before landing this crucial part, Odenkirk had built his career in the realm of comedy. He first made a name for himself in the late 1980s and early 1990s by writing sketch comedy for well-known shows like "Saturday Night Live" and "The Ben Stiller Show." His real rise to fame came when he co-created the critically acclaimed sketch program "Mr. Show with Bob and David," which aired on HBO from 1995 to 1998 for four seasons, producing 30 memorable episodes.
Unlike traditional network shows, "Mr. Show" excelled in pushing boundaries with its edgy humor, tackling topics that mainstream television might shy away from—like a sketch that controversially imagined descendants of Holocaust survivors receiving clones of Hitler as servants for reparation! The show’s irreverent approach is a testament to Odenkirk's comedic genius and willingness to explore difficult themes.
In a recent video interview with People Magazine, Odenkirk reflected on the pivotal moments of his career, including his time on "Mr. Show" and his iconic role as Saul. He expressed that "Mr. Show" was "the greatest gift" he could have received, fulfilling a lifelong ambition to create sketch comedy, inspired by his adoration for "Monty Python" from a young age.
Interestingly, Odenkirk did not audition for the role of Saul Goodman out of a desire to shift his career into drama. Rather, it was his comedic background that caught the attention of the "Breaking Bad" writers, who were, as it turns out, huge fans of "Mr. Show." When brainstorming for the character of Saul, they immediately thought of Odenkirk, knowing he would bring the proper flair to the role.
At the time he was approached for the part, Odenkirk wasn't even aware of "Breaking Bad's" growing popularity. When he consulted a friend, who was also a writing partner, he learned that the show was heralded as "the best on television"—which later proved accurate, particularly after Netflix helped catapult its viewership into the stratosphere by the fifth season.
Odenkirk described his time on the show as akin to a "paid acting school." He marveled at the opportunity he was given to explore a character so distinct from his previous comedic roles, particularly in scenes opposite Bryan Cranston, from whom he absorbed many lessons on the craft of acting. This newfound experience translated seamlessly into his lead role in "Better Call Saul," demonstrating that he could anchor a dramatic show on his own.
Interestingly, 2015 didn’t only bring the premiere of "Better Call Saul," but it also marked Odenkirk's collaboration with David Cross on a new sketch comedy show for Netflix called "W/ Bob & David." He likened this series to a hidden fifth season of "Mr. Show." As for any future appearances as Saul, Odenkirk remains skeptical given that "Better Call Saul" concluded with Jimmy McGill behind bars.
Reflecting on the ending of the show, he remarked, "The writers allowed Jimmy McGill the opportunity for a brutally honest self-assessment, which was truly a gift," referencing the show's poignant conclusion that echoed themes from Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment," where Jimmy ultimately faces the consequences of his actions.
What’s fascinating about Odenkirk’s trajectory is how he evolved from performing short comedic sketches to portraying a fleshed-out character over 13 years, showcasing the entirety of a man's journey, albeit often out of chronological order, leading to an impactful conclusion.
For those interested in revisiting Odenkirk's earlier work, "Mr. Show With Bob and David" is available for streaming on HBO Max.
What are your thoughts on this remarkable transition from comedy to drama? Do you think comedic actors are often underestimated in their ability to handle serious roles? Share your opinions in the comments!
