In “Better Call Saul,” we witness the complexities of characters like Kim Wexler, who, like Skyler White in “Breaking Bad,” navigates the moral gray areas of a world dominated by deceit and crime. Kim’s gradual descent into Saul Goodman’s world draws parallels to Skyler’s struggles with Walter White’s transformation into Heisenberg. However, Kim’s agency in choosing this life, contrasting with Skyler’s reluctant involvement, brings new light to Skyler’s character.
Skyler, often criticized for being unsupportive of Walt, is now better understood as a woman trying to protect her family amidst overwhelming circumstances. Unlike Kim, Skyler didn’t seek out a life of crime; she was thrust into it by Walt’s decisions. “Better Call Saul” deepens our empathy for characters like Skyler, who are forced to make impossible choices. Skyler’s moral compass, despite being flawed, highlights the true cost of living with a criminal mastermind.
Anna Gunn’s portrayal of Skyler becomes even more poignant when viewed through the lens of “Better Call Saul.” We see Skyler as a more sympathetic character—one who, much like Kim, is trapped by love and loyalty but remains a victim of circumstance rather than an accomplice by choice.