Why Was Kim Wexler Not in “Breaking Bad” and Is Lalo Salamanca in “Breaking Bad”?

“Breaking Bad” remains one of the most watched and critically acclaimed shows of the 2010s. Its intricate storyline, complex characters, and the evolution of protagonist Walter White have fascinated viewers globally. Alongside Walter, a galaxy of other characters played pivotal roles. However, some viewers often wonder: why was Kim Wexler not in “Breaking Bad”?

Kim Wexler: Her Character in Better Call Saul

Kim Wexler, portrayed by actress Rhea Seehorn, is a central character in the prequel series “Better Call Saul.” The series delves into the backstory of Saul Goodman (Jimmy McGill), several years before the events depicted in “Breaking Bad.” Given this timeline, it’s logical to deduce that Kim Wexler’s character was not present during the era of “Breaking Bad.”

Character Development

Kim Wexler is introduced in “Better Call Saul” as the woman Jimmy McGill, in his earlier incarnation, helps in turning over a new leaf. The character’s arc is one of moral growth and transformation, making her a significant counterpart to the evolving Saul Goodman. However, her absence in “Breaking Bad” is a testament to the show’s focused narrative and tight confines of the time frame.

Avoidance of Contradictions

One of the primary reasons Kim Wexler was not included in “Breaking Bad” is to prevent any potential contradictions or inconsistencies in the larger narrative. The creators and writers of “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” ensured that each show remained as standalone as possible, yet intricately connected. To include Kim Wexler in “Breaking Bad” could have complicated the storyline and detracted from the focus on Walter White and his criminal enterprise.

Lalo Salamanca: A Mentioned but Unseen Character

Unlike Kim Wexler, Lalo Salamanca is mentioned in “Breaking Bad” but has no on-screen presence. He is referred to in episodes, especially when discussing the Salamanca cartel. Lalo is killed by the series' commencement, making him a character from the past that only exists in context with other characters.

Character Fates

Lalo Salamanca's character is often a point of interest for fans, eager to know more about his background and end. Even though he is not seen, he serves as a significant enigma and a crucial part of the series' complex web of interactions and alliances. The mention of Lalo in “Breaking Bad” lends a richer, more nuanced understanding of the world in which the series is set.

Character Backstory and Intrigue

While Lalo is not seen, his fate is tied to several key plot points in “Breaking Bad.” His death is a significant event that affects other characters, particularly his sister, who is one of the most prominent members of the Salamanca family. The lack of on-screen presence builds intrigue and adds layers to the show's narrative, making Lalo a behind-the-scenes influencer in the series.

How Kim Wexler and Lalo Salamanca Fit into the Larger Canon

Although Kim Wexler and Lalo Salamanca are not central figures in “Breaking Bad,” their roles in other shows within the Breaking Bad universe are critical. Kim’s journey in “Better Call Saul” directly links to the foundational moral choices and transformations that characters like Saul Goodman undergo. Similarly, Lalo’s absence and death underscore the transient nature of power and influence in the world of organized crime that the series explores.

Out-of-Universe and In-Universe Perspectives

From an out-of-universe perspective, Kim Wexler and Lalo Salamanca's absences in “Breaking Bad” can be attributed to the show’s creators’ intentional decision to develop these characters in a different setting. The in-universe reasoning, however, is more nuanced. In “Better Call Saul,” Kim Wexler could have been part of Jimmy McGill's past, leading to moral dilemmas and plot points. In “Breaking Bad,” the characters’ absence could mean that they moved away or passed away before the onion of the series is peeled.

Conclusion

The absences of Kim Wexler and Lalo Salamanca in “Breaking Bad” are part of the show’s intricate web of storytelling. The decisions made by the creators ensure a cohesive and compelling narrative that doesn’t clutter the focus of characters central to the main storyline.