Who Is Better: Kim Wexler or Skyler White?

Humorously, many viewers might find that the comparison between Kim Wexler from Better Call Saul and Skyler White from Breaking Bad is more about their preferences and the dynamics of their respective storylines. While both characters are deeply significant to their narrative arcs, they stand in stark contrast to each other, making the comparison quite subjective. Let's delve into why fans love Kim Wexler and why they might have hated Skyler White.

Fans' Connection with Kim Wexler in Better Call Saul

Complex Character Development: Kim Wexler, the protagonist of Better Call Saul, is a character whose complexity captivates fans. Her journey from a capable and dedicated legal assistant to a hardened and morally ambiguous associate of Saul Goodman is a thrilling narrative arc. Kim's development is marked by her struggle with her identity, her eventual turn to crime, and her complex motivations. Her character evolution reflects the harsh realities of the legal system and the interpersonal dynamics that drive her choices.

Empowerment and Personal Growth: One of the most appreciated aspects of Kim Wexler is her journey of empowerment. Kim is portrayed as a strong, intelligent, and capable woman, defying the conventional roles often assigned to women in legal and corporate environments. Her success and control over her own narrative in the face of life's challenges resonate with many viewers. This is evident in her eventual partnership with her brother, Jimmy McGill (Breaking Bad's Saul Goodman), which is fraught with tension but ultimately enriches her character.

Fans' Resentment Towards Skyler White in Breaking Bad

Manipulative and Guilty: Skyler White, the wife of Walter White, is often seen as one of the more detested characters in the series. Her well-meaning actions are often misguided, leading her to become a passive participant in Walter's criminal activities. Skyler's guilt and fear drive her decisions, which, while understandable, are difficult to condone. Her actions often fuel the tension in the series, especially in her inability to navigate the complexities of her family's situation.

Manipulation by Walter: Skyler's role as a victim of Walter's manipulation is a double-edged sword. While her innocent loyalty to her family is admirable, her susceptibility to Walter's manipulation is a damning critique of her character. Her struggle to reconcile her moral values with her husband's criminal empire creates a sense of frustration among viewers. This constant interrogation of her choices and loyalties often leaves fans feeling frustrated and critical of her actions.

Comparison and Reflection

The Villainization of Skyler White: The way Skyler is portrayed in Breaking Bad often makes her the source of much of the moral conflict in the series. Skyler's descent into guilt and feeling trapped by the situation she is in often overshadows any potential positive aspects of her character. This villainization, while serving the narrative, is what fans often find difficult to stomach.

Empowerment vs. Trapped: While Kim Wexler's character is an empowering example of personal growth and empowerment, Skyler White often feels like a victim of circumstance and manipulation. Her trapped and desperate state contrasts sharply with the complex and proactive nature of Kim Wexler's character arc.

Final Thoughts

Whether Kim Wexler or Skyler White is 'better' is a question of personal preference and perspective. Characters like these, with their depth and complexity, make the series rich and relatable. Kim Wexler's journey is one of empowerment and redemption, while Skyler's is a tragic and often unsettling introspection of the human condition. Both characters are central to their respective arcs and provide a lens through which we can explore themes of morality, family, and the consequences of our actions.

In conclusion, the comparison between Kim Wexler and Skyler White is more of a reflection of the series' strengths and weaknesses. While Kim Wexler's character arc is a window into personal growth and empowerment, Skyler White is a cautionary and deeply human tale of moral ambiguity and victimization.