The Surprising Hidden Connection: How Two Lesser-Known Characters from Better Call Saul Shaped Breaking Bad's Epic Saga

Summary

Small actions can have big consequences in Breaking Bad, and two minor characters from Better Call Saul play a crucial role in Walter White's transformation into Heisenberg.

The skateboarders featured in Better Call Saul play a pivotal role in shaping the journeys of both Jimmy and Walter. Without their involvement, Walter's operation would have crumbled, preventing his transformation into Heisenberg. However, it is important to note that while the skateboarders serve as catalysts for the series' events, Jimmy bears sole responsibility for his own destiny. His choices and criminal escapades only serve to deepen his ties with the cartel and ultimately result in his tragic demise.

Breaking Bad highlights the significance of small actions with significant consequences, and the profound journey of Walter White relies on the presence of two minor characters from Better Call Saul. Initially a chemistry teacher diagnosed with Stage III lung cancer, Walter gradually transforms into the notorious drug lord Heisenberg throughout the original series. From season 1 to season 5, his character evolves, indulging in morally questionable acts.

In Better Call Saul, Walter makes only two brief appearances; however, this prequel intricately connects to his own narrative. While Saul Goodman takes center stage, the series establishes the foundation for the events that follow. Better Call Saul delves into the backstories of various Breaking Bad characters, serving as a catalyst for the emergence of Heisenberg. The contribution of two minor characters from the first two episodes of Better Call Saul is indispensable in this process.

Better Call Saul & Breaking Bad Can't Happen Without The Skateboarders

The introduction of skateboarders in episodes 1 and 2 of Better Call Saul is vital to the development of both Breaking Bad and its prequel. In an attempt to outsmart Jimmy, Lars and Cal Lindholm purposefully collide with his car in the Better Call Saul pilot. Although their plan fails, it sets off a sequence of events that greatly influences Jimmy's and Walter's narratives. Jimmy later approaches the skateboarders with a plan to deceive Betsy Kettleman, but tragically ends up targeting the wrong person: Tuco Salamanca's grandmother.

This failed con leads to a confrontation with Tuco, during which he threatens to kill Jimmy and the skateboarders. Without Lars and Cal, Jimmy would never have encountered Tuco or Nacho Varga. Consequently, he would not have crossed paths with Lalo either. It is evident that the skateboarders play a crucial role in Jimmy's transformation and ultimately lead him to work for the cartel. Their impact extends far beyond Jimmy's journey, leaving a lasting impact on both the prequel and the original series.

What Changes If The Skateboarders Get The Right Car In Better Call Saul Episode 1

The impact of the skateboarders from Better Call Saul on Jimmy's journey is evident, but the influence of these minor characters on Walter's arc is less clear. However, they ultimately shape Walter's destiny through his connection with Jimmy. Without encountering the cartel and becoming a "criminal lawyer," Jimmy's transformation into Heisenberg would not have been possible. Prior to meeting Saul Goodman, Walter's operation was chaotic. In the worst-case scenario, he and Jesse Pinkman would have faced earlier detection. In the best-case situation, they would not have created their expansive drug empire. Saul himself acknowledges that his role was indispensable to Walter's success, and his words hold true.

Indeed, Jimmy's transformation into the notorious Saul Goodman is pivotal to the events of Breaking Bad. Saul is a significant figure in the original series, facilitating the main characters' ability to evade detection. His guidance ensures the smooth operation of Walter's and Gus' enterprises. Saul's quick thinking and connections also play a crucial role in saving Jesse's and Walt's lives. Therefore, Saul serves as the backbone of both series, and his influence is responsible for all that unfolds.

Why Jimmy Is Ultimately Responsible For His Own BCS & Breaking Bad Story

Although the skateboarders play a prominent role in the events of Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad, it is Jimmy who bears the greatest responsibility in both series. Without his criminal behavior, neither Saul Goodman nor Heisenberg would have made their impactful contributions to the world. Although the skateboarders introduce Jimmy to the cartel, he could have avoided further involvement if he had chosen to abide by the rules. Throughout Better Call Saul, both Jimmy and Kim make choices that deepen their association with the criminals they end up working for.

Similarly, Jimmy has the opportunity to thwart Heisenberg's actions. If he had refused to work with Walter, the outcome of Breaking Bad would have been drastically different. Jimmy could have potentially saved numerous lives by staying away from Walter. Additionally, he might have avoided his tragic fate in Better Call Saul, where he ultimately dies in prison. Regrettably, Jimmy chooses a morally ambiguous path, leading to disastrous consequences for himself and those around him. This aspect is a key message in Better Call Saul, shedding a new light on the preceding series.