Ever since Better Call Saul wrapped up its acclaimed run, fans of the Breaking Bad universe have been eager for more stories set in the world of Walter White, Saul Goodman, and the cartel underworld. AMC executives have made it clear they’re open to expanding the franchise, recognizing the enduring popularity and critical success of both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. But while AMC is ready to keep the universe alive, the decision ultimately rests with the creators, Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould—who, for now, seem uninterested in revisiting their legendary saga.
AMC’s Interest in More Spin-Offs
It’s no surprise that AMC wants to keep the Breaking Bad universe going. Both Breaking Bad (2008–2013) and Better Call Saul (2015–2022) are among the most celebrated television series of all time, winning multiple Emmy Awards and consistently drawing high viewership. The franchise’s ability to deliver compelling storytelling, complex characters, and intense drama has kept audiences invested for over a decade.
AMC has a history of capitalizing on successful IPs. They’ve extended The Walking Dead with multiple spin-offs (Fear the Walking Dead, The Walking Dead: Dead City, The Ones Who Live), and Breaking Bad remains one of their most valuable properties. The network has hinted at its willingness to explore more spin-offs, whether focused on familiar characters or new stories set in the same criminal underworld.
Why Gilligan and Gould Are Hesitant
Despite AMC’s enthusiasm, the creative team behind Breaking Bad has been more cautious. Vince Gilligan has repeatedly expressed that he doesn’t want to overstay his welcome in the Breaking Bad world, fearing that stretching the franchise too far could dilute its impact. In multiple interviews, he’s mentioned wanting to leave the universe on a high note, rather than risk diminishing its legacy.
Instead, Gilligan has moved on to a new sci-fi project for Apple TV+, starring Better Call Saul’s Rhea Seehorn (Kim Wexler). Details on the show remain scarce, but it’s described as a “blended, grounded sci-fi drama” with ambitious storytelling. This suggests that Gilligan is ready to explore new creative territory rather than return to the Breaking Bad universe.
Peter Gould has echoed similar sentiments. While he has admitted that he “would love” to revisit the Breaking Bad world one day, he also feels that the story wrapped up in a satisfying way. “There are no plans right now,” he stated in a 2022 interview, emphasizing his desire to pursue fresh ideas before considering another trip back to Albuquerque.
What Would a New Breaking Bad Spin-Off Look Like?
If AMC were to get its wish, what could a new Breaking Bad spin-off explore?
Some fan-favorite characters remain rich with untold stories. For instance:
- Gus Fring’s Origins – While Better Call Saul shed some light on Gustavo Fring’s rise, a deeper exploration of his early years—how he built his empire, his mysterious past in Chile, and his relationship with the cartel—could be compelling.
- Jesse Pinkman’s Future – El Camino (2019) gave Jesse a proper send-off, but there’s always room to explore what happens after his escape to Alaska. Does he ever truly find peace, or is he inevitably drawn back into the world he fled?
- Kim Wexler’s Redemption (or Downfall) – With Better Call Saul leaving Kim in a complex, morally ambiguous place, a spin-off could follow her journey post-Breaking Bad, either as an attempt at redemption or a descent into further legal intrigue.
Despite these possibilities, the final call remains with Gilligan and Gould. Given their track record of crafting meticulous, character-driven narratives, they won’t return unless they have a story truly worth telling.
The Future of the Breaking Bad Universe
For now, Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul stand as complete, masterfully told stories, untouched by unnecessary sequels or reboots. While AMC may be eager to produce another installment, fans may have to wait years—if ever—for Gilligan and Gould to feel inspired enough to return. Until then, their focus remains on new projects, pushing their storytelling talents into uncharted territory.
Key Takeaways
- AMC is interested in developing more Breaking Bad spin-offs but needs creator involvement to move forward.
- Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould have no immediate plans to return to the Breaking Bad universe.
- The creative team maintains a “never say never” approach while pursuing new projects outside the franchise.
Potential for ‘Breaking Bad’ Spin-Offs
The acclaimed Breaking Bad universe may expand again, though several key factors will determine if viewers see new stories from this world. The network appears eager while creators remain hesitant about returning to the well-established franchise.
AMC’s Openness to Future Projects
AMC Studios has made their position clear regarding potential new Breaking Bad spin-offs. Dan McDermott, head of AMC Studios, stated that the “door is always open” for more stories set in this universe. This enthusiasm makes sense given the critical and commercial success of both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.
The network recognizes the value of the franchise and its dedicated fanbase. AMC executives understand that these shows have defined the network’s brand for quality television. Their willingness to develop additional content indicates they see untapped potential in the Breaking Bad world.
Despite the conclusion of Better Call Saul, AMC believes audiences would embrace new characters or storylines within this established universe.
Requirements for Spin-Off Development
While AMC remains receptive, any new spin-off would require involvement from key creative forces. Vince Gilligan, who created Breaking Bad, has expressed that he feels he should know when to “leave the party” – suggesting he may be ready to pursue different projects.
Peter Gould, co-creator of Better Call Saul, seems more open to possibilities, saying he’d “love to leave the door open” for future stories. However, both creators have stated they have no immediate plans for additional Breaking Bad spin-offs.
The creative team has established a “never say never” approach. Their involvement would be crucial for maintaining the quality and consistency fans expect. Any new project would need a compelling story that expands the universe in meaningful ways rather than simply capitalizing on past success.
Creators’ Stance on Revisiting the Universe
The minds behind the Breaking Bad universe have mixed feelings about returning to the world they created. While AMC is eager for more content, the creative direction ultimately depends on Gilligan and Gould’s willingness to revisit this narrative space.
Vince Gilligan’s Perspective
Vince Gilligan, the original creator of Breaking Bad, appears hesitant about developing additional spin-offs. After concluding both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, he has indicated that returning to this universe is unlikely. Gilligan seems ready to explore new creative territories beyond the New Mexico crime world he carefully built over many years.
His focus has shifted to fresh projects, suggesting he feels the Breaking Bad story has been fully told. This stance aligns with many creators who prefer to end stories on their own terms rather than extending them beyond their natural conclusion.
Despite AMC’s interest in continuing the franchise, Gilligan’s involvement would be crucial for maintaining the storytelling quality that fans expect.
Peter Gould’s Involvement
Peter Gould, who co-created Better Call Saul with Gilligan, has expressed more openness to potential future projects. In discussions with Newsweek, Gould mentioned he “would love to make more” content in the Breaking Bad universe, though no concrete plans exist.
As the co-architect of Jimmy McGill’s journey into becoming Saul Goodman, Gould’s perspective carries significant weight. His enthusiasm suggests that while the door isn’t wide open, it’s not completely closed either.
Gould’s willingness to consider returning to this world provides a small hope for fans. However, any new projects would likely require both creators’ involvement to maintain the high quality and narrative consistency that made the original shows so successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
The future of the Breaking Bad universe remains uncertain despite ongoing interest from fans and network executives. The creators and AMC have made various statements about potential expansions of the beloved franchise.
What conditions have been stated for Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould to consider new Breaking Bad spin-offs?
Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould have indicated they would only return to the Breaking Bad universe if they had a compelling story worth telling. They value the integrity of the original works and have expressed reluctance to dilute the franchise with unnecessary content.
The creators want any potential spin-off to maintain the high quality standards set by Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. They prefer to explore fresh creative opportunities rather than extending the universe without purpose.
Has AMC expressed explicit intentions to expand the Breaking Bad universe further?
AMC’s leadership has repeatedly stated that “the door is always open” for more Breaking Bad content. The network executives have shown enthusiasm about continuing the franchise in some form.
According to search results, an AMC boss confirmed the network hopes for another Breaking Bad spin-off. This statement came as Better Call Saul was wrapping up its final season.
What are the latest statements from the creators regarding the Breaking Bad franchise’s future?
Vince Gilligan has explicitly stated he has “no plans to make a new show in the breaking bad world.” This suggests he wants to move on to different creative projects.
However, both Gilligan and Gould have also used the phrase “never say never” when discussing potential returns to the Breaking Bad universe. This leaves a small possibility for future content if the right idea emerges.
Are there potential concepts for Breaking Bad spin-offs under discussion?
No specific concepts for new Breaking Bad spin-offs have been publicly confirmed as being in active development. The search results don’t mention any particular ideas being discussed.
Any future concepts would likely need to explore untapped characters or storylines within the universe. Popular fan suggestions have included shows focused on Gus Fring’s rise to power or the adventures of Skinny Pete and Badger.
How have fan reactions influenced the possibility of more Breaking Bad content?
The strong positive reception to Better Call Saul demonstrated that audiences remain highly interested in the Breaking Bad universe. This fan loyalty makes the franchise commercially viable for AMC.
Fan discussions and theories across social media platforms keep interest in the universe alive. The creators have acknowledged fan enthusiasm but remain committed to quality over fan service.
What role would Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould play in potential new spin-offs from the Breaking Bad series?
AMC would likely want Gilligan and Gould involved in some capacity to maintain the creative vision and quality of any new spin-offs. Their involvement would lend credibility to new projects.
The creators could potentially serve as executive producers or consultants rather than showrunners. This would allow them to pursue other projects while still influencing the direction of new Breaking Bad content.
