At the heart of the Breaking Bad prequel, Better Call Saul, lies the complex relationship between Kim Wexler and Jimmy McGill. However, it's uncertain whether Kim's affection is for Jimmy or his alter ego, the con-man lawyer Saul Goodman. Initially, Saul is portrayed as morally questionable, devoid of any conscience. Yet, Better Call Saul unfolds the truth that Saul's true nature wasn't always this way. Despite Jimmy's turbulent upbringing and his brushes with trouble, he initially strives to build a legitimate career. However, circumstances eventually steer him towards a life of crime, and his relationship with Kim plays a significant role in his transformation into Saul Goodman.
Though beloved in the Breaking Bad universe, Jimmy and Kim's relationship is not without its own toxicity. While they start off as friends in Better Call Saul, they quickly become partners in all aspects, including Saul's elaborate schemes. Their time together at Hamlin & McGill breeds resentment and equips them with the ability to navigate their way out of any situation. Though their bond often puts them on the verge of trouble, it only strengthens as they transition from friends to accomplices.
Jimmy Was More Interested In Kim During Better Call Saul's Early Seasons
Jimmy's attraction towards Kim in the beginning of Better Call Saul is ambiguous as it is unclear if Kim reciprocates his feelings. Despite this, they make a formidable team and there is undeniable chemistry between them. Jimmy consistently pursues Kim, whether it is in a romantic context or in their shared goal of establishing a law firm. Initially, Kim maintains a distance from Jimmy, rejecting his romantic advances and his suggestions of partnership in their practice. It is evident that she cares for Jimmy, but her feelings do not match his intensity from the start.
However, it is when Jimmy's deceitful behavior resurfaces that Kim becomes fully invested in their relationship. This may seem unexpected, considering that she initially encourages Jimmy to make ethical choices. Jimmy's criminal tendencies awaken a side of Kim that she had long suppressed. Gradually, she takes charge in their joint scams, finding enjoyment in participating and planning alongside Jimmy. This ultimately leads to a romantic involvement between the two longtime friends.
Kim Grew More Attracted To Jimmy After "Saul Goodman" Emerged
Kim's attraction towards Jimmy intensifies as his "Saul Goodman" persona emerges. They embark on a romantic relationship fueled by their shared deceit, starting with a successful scheme to manipulate a wealthy businessman into purchasing expensive tequila. Despite Kim expressing her hesitations about their illicit activities becoming routine, their involvement in cons deepens as Better Call Saul progresses. Their connection evolves into both love and partnership, blurring the lines between their roles as they become inseparable accomplices. Notably, Kim's affinity for Jimmy's dubious actions plays a significant role in strengthening their bond and drawing her nearer to him.
There are two plausible explanations for Kim's fascination with Jimmy's criminal inclinations. Firstly, she grew up with a mother who was adept at running cons. Having been involved in her mother's schemes, Kim finds solace and familiarity in Jimmy's behavior. Additionally, Kim becomes increasingly dissatisfied with her legal career throughout Better Call Saul. This dissatisfaction leads her to constantly switch firms and take on pro bono cases. Indulging in thrilling escapades with Jimmy provides her with a sense of excitement that is lacking in her mundane everyday life. Consequently, she associates this adrenaline rush with Jimmy, deepening her attraction towards his criminal persona.
Better Call Saul's Ending Proved Kim Did Love Jimmy (Not Just Saul)
Kim's initial attraction to Saul Goodman evolves in the finale of Better Call Saul, revealing her love for Jimmy as well. In a bold move, Jimmy confesses to his crimes from Breaking Bad, resulting in a life sentence instead of accepting a seven-year deal secured through deceit. This choice signifies his transformation back into Jimmy McGill and his commitment to doing what's right. Influenced by Kim's own decision to tell the truth about Howard Hamlin, Jimmy clings to his feelings for her even years after their separation.
The Better Call Saul finale cements Kim's lingering affection for Jimmy. Despite a prolonged period of silence, Kim attends Jimmy's hearing and admires his candidness. Later, she visits him in prison, demonstrating her continued care for him. Kim's unwavering loyalty to Jimmy, even after he sheds his Saul persona, unequivocally reveals her deep love for him. While their connection originates from a different place, it remains a powerful driving force for her character. Unfortunately, with Jimmy now serving a permanent prison sentence, the likelihood of their relationship progressing becomes bleak.
Kim Loved Both Saul Goodman & Jimmy McGill (But For Different Reasons)
The finale of Better Call Saul demonstrates Kim's love for both Saul Goodman and Jimmy McGill. Kim fully embraces the contrasting aspects of her on-screen partner, appreciating each persona for distinct reasons. With a long history together, Kim and Jimmy consistently support one another. Kim holds deep respect for the part of Jimmy that upholds moral values and can achieve success without resorting to scams and lies. This side of Jimmy resonates with the Kim we first meet at the beginning of Better Call Saul – someone who values hard work and strives to be an ethical lawyer.
However, there is also a side of Kim that thrives on deception and trickery, which becomes more apparent in the later seasons of the show. Kim finds delight in the antics of Saul Goodman, as he brings excitement and purpose to her life when she needs it most. While she eventually acknowledges that Saul brings out her worst qualities, Kim genuinely enjoys the time she spends with him. She is drawn to Saul precisely because he exudes thrill and excitement in her presence.
Kim appreciates the way Saul influences her emotions, yet she admires Jimmy for his true self. This distinction plays a crucial role in the complex dynamics between the main characters of Better Call Saul. This contrast also adds a sense of clarity to their relationship. Kim genuinely loves all aspects of Jimmy, regardless of his flaws. She embraces his darker side as a lifelong companion, yet recognizes his potential for growth. Similarly, Kim possesses similar qualities, and it is likely this shared likeness that initially drew them together.