Epic Twist Unveiled: Jesse Pinkman's Astonishing Destiny, Jaw-Dropping Story Revelations & Much More

Summary

Writer Thomas Schnauz and George Mastras reveal that Breaking Bad season 5 almost had a very different character arc for Jesse in which he takes over Walt's drug empire.

The pivotal moment of Todd killing Drew Sharp in "Dead Freight" completely altered the course of events and ultimately led to Jesse, who had become more compassionate, rebelling against the increasingly ruthless Walt.

Delving into Jesse's deeper humanity in season 5 brought about a cathartic and emotional conclusion for Breaking Bad, which may not have had the same impact had Jesse chosen to follow Walt's path.

Breaking Bad writers Thomas Schnauz and George Mastras discuss the decision to abandon the idea of Jesse inheriting Walt's drug empire. Vince Gilligan created the critically acclaimed crime drama in 2008, which follows the transformation of Bryan Cranston's character, Walter White, from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher to the largest drug kingpin in New Mexico. Aaron Paul stars alongside Cranston as Jesse, Walt's former student and eventual business partner. The two characters experience a significant falling out in the final season of Breaking Bad. In a recent interview with SlashFilm, Schnauz and Mastras explain that there was originally a different plan for Jesse's character development in season 5. However, this changed due to the decision to include Jesse Plemons' character, Todd, killing Drew Sharp in the "Dead Freight" episode, which focused on a train heist. The full comments from Schnauz and Mastras regarding this change can be found below.

Schnauz: Our initial plans were for Walt to retire and for Jesse to become the main meth dealer in Albuquerque. However, everything changed when the kid was shot.

"When we brainstorm and write, we often create flowcharts. We consider different scenarios and ask ourselves: what if this happens or what if that happens? One of the possible outcomes was Jesse fully embracing the meth business, being proud of his skills and the money they were making. It seemed logical that Jesse would continue while Walt either becomes too ill to carry on or steps back, allowing Jesse to take control of the operation."

Unlike Jesse, Walt possesses the ability to compartmentalize. Throughout their exploits, they have committed countless abhorrent deeds that Walt has chosen to repress. Despite acknowledging the enormity of these acts, he urges Jesse to toughen up and move forward, persuading him to join their prosperous journey as Mike is departing and Walt does not wish to be alone.

Regarding Drew Sharp's unfortunate demise, it ultimately became the catalyst for the imminent end, causing Jesse to turn against Walt. Unbeknownst to us at the time, this provided us with a crucial tool, resulting in the central conflict between the two characters that ultimately determined the overall outcome.

How Breaking Bad Nails Jesse's Character Arc

Jesse, alongside Walt, is a key character in Breaking Bad, playing a vital role in Walt's journey from power to downfall. Despite their frequent disagreements, the two characters rely on each other, as Walt notably stated in season 1, "You know the business, and I know the chemistry." While the show predominantly revolves around Walt's evolution, Jesse's narrative is equally essential.

In contrast to Walt's ambition, drive, and unapologetic ruthlessness, Jesse represents the antithesis. At certain points in the series, Jesse is perceived as a loser, yet he embodies the essence of the show. Viewers connect with Jesse due to his empathy, his capacity for love and care towards others, and the torment he experiences as a result of witnessing and participating in abhorrent acts.

Choosing to focus on this aspect of Jesse's character in season 5 of Breaking Bad proved to be the right decision, as it highlights his humanity. Jesse is deeply affected by what happened to Drew, but it is not just his death alone that pushes him to his breaking point. It is a culmination of devastating losses, betrayals, and struggles. While the final season of Breaking Bad could have still been successful if Jesse had chosen to follow in Walt's footsteps and become a drug kingpin himself, delving into the more compassionate and vulnerable side of Jesse ultimately leads to a profoundly impactful and emotionally charged conclusion.