BrBa is definitely my favorite show... so thank you for creating it! Is there a set number of seasons that you invision for the show?

Is Bryan Cranson married? hahahaha

Hey Vince. Terrific show! My question for you is, what was the significance of the scene with the dead grocery store clerk in the episode, Peekaboo? I always thought that scene would have some underlying impact on our protagonists. Is there a story there? I find it hard to believe that those two junkies were able to kill that guy and boost that ATM machine all by themselves.

First off.......BrBAD is the best show on television ever, YO!!!

Thanks for creating it!

q:What inspires/influences crazy scenes like ATM's crushing skulls...turtle/decapitated head bombs....junkie girlfriends passed out on H choking to death on vomit........ONE DING!....and ofcourse the corpse and a tub full of acid falling through the ceiling hahaha....
Are there any life experiences/ examples you can think of that directly inspired scenes like that?

First off.......BrBAD is the best show on television ever, YO!!!

Thanks for creating it!

q:What inspires/influences crazy scenes like ATM's crushing skulls...turtle/decapitated head bombs....junkie girlfriends passed out on H choking to death on vomit........ONE DING!....and ofcourse the corpse and a tub full of acid falling through the ceiling hahaha....
Are there any life experiences/ examples you can think of that directly inspired scenes like that?

First off.......BrBAD is the best show on television ever, YO!!!

Thanks for creating it!

q:What inspires/influences crazy scenes like ATM's crushing skulls...turtle/decapitated head bombs....junkie girlfriends passed out on H choking to death on vomit........ONE DING!....and ofcourse the corpse and a tub full of acid falling through the ceiling hahaha....
Are there any life experiences/ examples you can think of that directly inspired scenes like that?

Shoot.....i'm sorry! oops....

How long do we have to wait till season 3?......I cant stand the wait!!

Q: Will Saul be in season 3, and if so, will he play a bigger roll than he has this season?

Q: I'm a big fan of the writers on this show, especially Sam Catlin and Peter Gould. Are you planning on having most of the same writers (especially the two listed above) next season?

Q: Are Badger and Skinny Pete going to play bigger rolls next season?

Q: Will Saul be in season 3, and if so, will he play a bigger roll than he has this season?

Q: I'm a big fan of the writers on this show, especially Sam Catlin and Peter Gould. Are you planning on having most of the same writers (especially the two listed above) next season?

Q: Are Badger and Skinny Pete going to play bigger rolls next season?

Opps =/

Dear Sir,
I am 63 years old and have read many great books, plays and have seen many great films. Nothing surpasses Breaking Bad. Not Shakespeare, not Melville, not Hitchcock, not Tennessee Williams, not the Coen brothers to name a few. I cannot tell you how gratifying it is to view a contemporary drama that I believe is in such exalted company. Congratulations to you and the actors and film crew and congratulations to amc.

Thank you,
Bill Bagwell

First of all...THANK YOU for Breaking Bad!!! It's 100% PURE GENIUS!!!

My question, for now, is:

After the filming, of a particularly violent or highly emotional scene...
Do you find yourself, so caught up in the action, that it takes a while to decompress?

I just want to say thank you for bringing a show that is totally original and keeps me on the edge of my seat! My question is: What is the relationship of Skylar and Ted going to grow into..?(besides what happened in the past) What was he doing at the hospital before Walt, why is she really in such a rush to go back to work?! Something is fishy... Will she leave Walt for Ted when she starts putting the pieces of the puzzle together?

My question is: What is the relationship of Skylar and Ted going to grow into..?(besides what happened in the past)

great show Mr Gillian!! as an addict in recovery some times is quite hard for me to watch the show , but what can I say I'm hooked, Anyways

1.) What inspire this show has something like this happen in real life?
2.) The woman who played a junkie who crushed the other fiend, has got to be the real thing is she?
3.) Too bad about Combo, but will Skinny and Badgger be back , those two knuckle heads are great..........
Any ways thanks for a wonderful show Skyler is one hot lady....

Vince, Great show, have been watching since the beginning last year. This one of the few shows on Television worth watching these days. This show seems to just go deeper and deeper, how do your writers keep this odyssey going? Seems to me that Hank and the rest of his DEA colleagues have to eventually close in on Walt/ Heisenberg and Jesse and shut them down. How far do you anticipate the Series running?

With as many writers/directors as you have working on the show, I'm amazed at how cohesive the overall show is aesthetically and story-wise. Do you wield a master veto power? and if so do you have people helping to make sure there aren't serious contradictions from episode to episode. Also what is your favorite episode of season 2? I would have to go with "better call saul"... perfection.

Here's another question:

[b]Q: Will Season 3 have its own "Teddy Bear", that we will see scenes from but not actually understand until the finale?[/b]

VINCE IM THE GUY YOU WROTE THIS WHOLE THING ON GOOD JOB..IM THE REASON ITS SO SUCCESSFULL...TY KATIE BROOKS MTV ,AND ALL YOUR VERY CONSTANT WACTHING...YOURS TRUELY JOHNNY GUFFEY ..ATL MIAMI FT LAUDERDAL ..DAVID,MIGUEL.....ALL OF YOU IM THE REASON.............

i think Walt and Jesse should show up at Jane's funeral service and Jane's dad should freak out on them both?

what does Jane's dad do for work? do we know?

will Skylar ever get busy with her boss?

Hi Vince. I know I don't have a picture uploaded so please don't be judgmental. My silhouette has ears like these, too. Anyway:

[Q]: Who were the two people in body-bags just outside of Walter's destroyed car?

Skyler has been annoying me this entire season. If you were to kill her off I wouldn't be phased by the slightest. OK thanks.

Vince, ah-ha, I knew Walter cared for Jesse. I am so glad you showed that. I know you don't like to over state anything, but it would be great if Walt was responsible for getting Jesse straightened out, somehow. I already know that Walt's end is going to be sad. And please tell me that those two things in the driveway are not body bags, but evidence bags. One of them looked smaller than the other...and if that was the baby, that would be the worst thing I can think of. My fingers are crossed that nobodies in them. Thank you Vince, for an emensely talented group of actors, an incredible story that shows that good and bad side of the characters in a way that makes you love them in spite of their faults, without the obvious over emotional crap that we are all sick of.

Vince, ah-ha, I knew Walter cared for Jesse. I am so glad you showed that. I know you don't like to over state anything, but it would be great if Walt was responsible for getting Jesse straightened out, somehow. I already know that Walt's end is going to be sad. And please tell me that those two things in the driveway are not body bags, but evidence bags. One of them looked smaller than the other...and if that was the baby, that would be the worst thing I can think of. My fingers are crossed that nobodies in them. Thank you Vince, for an emensely talented group of actors, an incredible story that shows that good and bad side of the characters in a way that makes you love them in spite of their faults, without the obvious over emotional crap that we are all sick of.

when are we gonna see The Cartel?

will they be in season 3?

when are we gonna see The Cartel?

will they be in season 3?

one more question lol...

Will Ted die?

Hi Vince,
My wife and I love the show and your obviously sick and brilliant humor! I've noticed a lot of the hand-held footage, and the interesting B-roll...as a director, why did you choose to go for the hand held versus a Steadicam? I guess the subject itself is pretty raw, and that technique
marries well? Just curious.
Anyhow, you can sleep well knowing that you've created two "junkies" with your show dammit! We love it.
Kind regards,
Lorie & Jason

PS: We miss Tuco.

Vince,

Great show!! I can tell you and the writers are getting into Nuevo Mexico . So do you prefer the red or the green.. or is it christmas? :)

I'm up here in the Capital City , hanging out with Gov. Richardson....lol We are just neighbors really. I liked Johnson a bit more. He did some really good things for the state.

So when does the filming of season 3 start? Are you going to get more cities involved? Hint hint Santa Fe :) maybe a trip down memory lane with Walt and Skyler to Los Alamos.

If you do get up to SF, be sure and go to Tomasitas by the rail station, it's where the locals dine. Great food. The Pink Adobe is good if you want a break from Mexican food.

I really have been enjoying many aspects of the show and give the crew a pat on the back

Hi Mr.Gilligan,
Thank you for giving us the best show on TV. How is the ratings on BB? Do you think they would be higher on a main network? Also, was BB pitched to other networks before AMC? If BB was on a main network would they let you do some of the seedier scenes?
One last thing, i could not believe the writers let Walt sit there and let Jesses girlfriend die. Is Walt going to like the power of doing that?

Dear Mr. Vince Gilligan,

Could you please see to it that there is a whole bunch more minisodes made? (I mean, come on man, we're going to have to do something while we're waiting for next season. Why not watch minisodes?)
My favorite so far is: "The Break-In" F'n hilarious man!

evilC of evilCozPoetry the guy this whole thing is not about.

Jane's Margolis' death Isn't it also possible that with vomit in her mouth, even on her side, Jane could have asphyxiated? Or did Walt cause her nausea and vomiting by moving her when he shook Jesse?

Hank's Promotion Is Hank still splitting his time between Albuquerque and El Paso or was his promotion rescinded?

Breaking Bad Soundtrack Any chance of a CD of the music for Seasons 1 and 2?

Emmys Was the cast nominated in the ensemble category for a drama series in 2008? Will they be for the 2009 season? They surely deserve it! All of them, absolutely at the TOP OF THEIR GAME!

Full Episodes Online on AMC Site Will AMC or Sony ever reverse their policy on this, and put the full episodes on-line? Pretty please?

The theme of illicit drug trafficking is used very often in film and television, including everything from rise-and-fall drug kingpin movies like Scarface, to cop drama shows like Miami Vice.

In almost every case, however, the drug dealers are already hardened criminals. Breaking Bad is unique in that the protagonist is probably the last person in the world that one would expect to be producing methamphetamine - within the first three episodes, Walt goes from meekly washing cars to dissolving his murder victims in a plastic tub full of hydrofluoric acid, and throughout both seasons he's constantly balancing his family life with his criminal activities.

How did you come up with the idea for the show, and why do you think Breaking Bad has been so successful to date?

Also: what are the chances that at the end of season 3, Walt regains consciousness in the car wash, decides it all must have been a bad dream, and begs Elliot to cover his healthcare expenses?

Mr Gillian? Thanks a lot for your show!!!
Even in far away Russia (thanks to Internet) we can enjoy this ass kickin' show) Great thanks to you from all of your Russian fans!! Keep it real!!
and the question is:

For the past three years TV Shows in USA are becoming much more interesting and experimental (the screenplay's, the style of shooting) then Hollywood films. Why do you think this is happening? And is there an "Era of Independent TV Shows" comming to USA TV Broadcasting?

And one more: Have you heard about any criminals that have seen your movies and their reaction on it?

Dear Vince, You rock!!!!!!!!! Once this show is over what am I going to do? That's my question! You have ruined me for other shows! Nip/Tuck isn't going for a new season for a few months. AAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! I guess I'll have to go out to a concert,play or some other boring thing like that. Good thing its summer. Anyway, thanks for the wonderful writing and the wonderful actors.
Tweeds

I think my question would be, do you get tired of all the acolades and compliments paid to you for this incredible, excellent show? I am a 56 yr old man and have conversed about the show with people in their 70''s and 20's. Total age crossover show, and my wife and I plan our Sunday evening around bb. Thank goodness for the encore running that let me watch NBA last night!!!

Keep it up, Vince, old son!

I never miss a show & am completely enthralled with the intimate twists and turns. Most of all, I was so curious to know the genius behind the story plots. Walt seems to be increasingly hardened by his dealings, and more protective of his family.
When you watch it a second time it becomes clear that the connections between Walt & Jesse are more than just partners. I wasn't clear on whether Jesse made it or not?
I love the bumbling cops episodes, and hope that they almost get caught. I would love to see Saul living it up in Mexico and then getting into big trouble.
Jane's death shocked the hell out of me. I think she is still going to be around in Jesse's nightmares? Congratulations on such a groundbreaking show!

I guess I do have a legit question. On the Ep 12 photos, you have the guy with Walt in the car listed as Giancarlo Esposito and Gus. Anyway I know its not Giancarlo, though I've seen that guy in lots of pictures. Who is he. So is he the real Gus and not Giancarlo's character?

Hello Sir! My question is how did you come up with the idea of the ricin-laced meth? Is there a possibility Walt will use it on somebody in a future episode? My candidates for that would be Ted Beneke or Jane's dad Donald. Both are going to cause trouble for Walt/Heisenberg and need to be dealt with.

In "Cider House Rules" the love between the boy and the Doctor was so beautiful and that is what Walt and Jesse's relationship reminds me of. Please do not kill either one of them. The comment rhat Jamm54 made about Walt pushing Jesse,then Jane rolling over on her back is something I hadn't thought of. Good one.
Ted is a dirtbag and a lying thief but Skylar is being sucked in by him.
I wish Walt would give her a clue. Why the hell did Walt hide the money in so obvious a place. Does he want her to find it?
Why didn't he put it in the crawl space under the house?And what if something happens to him and they sell the house? Shouldn't he let Skylar know about the money?
I know that the website will launder the money,but is it wise to put Walt's picture on the internet?
Love the casting. Tuco scared the hell out of me!

I'm normally a big fan of AMC, but I and my wife are disgusted that a show that makes a hero out of a guy who runs a meth lab and especially the fact that he is a teacher. The seeming popularity of this show saddens me as it is an indictment of societies morales. I don't care how well scripted, acted or produced it may be, it is based on a corrupt premise and sells the wrong message to people, especially our youth. Our teachers have enough of a struggle gaining and keeping respect from our kids, do we really need this kind of garbage to help undermine it further?

I love the fact you do the show in Albuquerque. Would love to watch you guys work, get a walk on, How does one do that?

Mr. Gilligan and staff,

If the writer's strike hadn't forced your team to cut a few episodes out of season 1, would that season have ended the same? Was there another plan for the last episode?

Thanks for putting on the best show on television. It's apparent you have a magnificent cast and crew.

JP

At some point everything is going to come to a head. How many seasons do you see this going? Will Walt redeem himself, or pay the price for his crimes including murder? I am addicted to the show like Jesse is to meth. Thanks for bringing it to the small screen and to Albuquerque!

Mr. Gilligan,
You have captured real people dealing with life, a gritty show with a unique style. I do hope you and your team consider other shows for cable.

Have you heard of a Santa Fe author, S. M. Stirling? His novel, Dies The Fire is a great story that in these current times needs to be brought to the screen. You and your team with the style you demonstrait could create another Breaking Bad. I strongly encourage you to look at Mr. Striling's work.

You two are a great team waiting to happen!

Hi Vince,
please let me first congratulate you and your team! what an amazing show! the best thing on tv since the sopranos! incidently i feel that there is a clear filiation between your show and the sopranos. Am I right? was the sopranos an inspiration to you?
zul

One of the great thing I love about “breaking bad” is that it gives an accurate description of science (I am a scientist myself). This is very rare on tv…don’t get me started on NCSI!!!
Where did you get this inspiration and who are the persons helping you in your description of the frustration of science for instance?
Are you going to explore in more details the earlier life of walt while at los Alamos in the third season? What happened exactly? How was he pushed away from research and wound up a teacher in a highschool?

Hello Vince, this has been one of the most original and well acted shows to hit the television in a long time. My question is, do you think ultimately this is a show about all the negative things in life, or does it show how the human spirit triumphs over life?

Congrats on the new characters of season 2: they found their place very well and very fast! Saul was a great idea man! I hope he will survive the finale’!
Is he going to take a more important role in the next season?

My last question concerns the amazing pace of breaking bad!
Did the writer’s strike of last year have had an effect on the rhythm of the show? It seems to me that in a very unpredictable way, the fact that you had to tell the first season story in 7 episodes rather than 9 (or 12 or 13, I am not sure about that…) forced you to go to the essential and gave your series the high-octane punch that we all love! And thus that the strike was actually a blessing for breaking bad…

Actually I would also like to know if the 3rd season is going to be the last one. How many episodes do you have in mind? I would not believe that you have not thought on how to wrap it up. I hate to say that because I love this show, but lingering on for too long would be very bad for the show as a piece of art.

Vince, One other question. Will you be bringing back Skinny Pete next season? That guy is seriously funny, his dialog is Perfect. Jesse needs someone from his old crew to touch bases with and keep that connection to his life before Jane's demise. I'm hereby requesting that you Officially bring back Skinny Pete next season. - I'm talkin bout slinging mad volume and fat stackin Benjies. I dont have time for spellin n' shit.

HELL YEAAH!! Walt needs to some how reddeem himself by saving Jesse and skinny pete, he needs to find redemption before loosing the ultimte battle against his cancer, althoug most of the killings were in a way a matter of survival, he still put himself in the position of having to comitt them, it would be inmoral and un-realistic for him to walk away unscathed, in fact he is a good man being torn apart by desperate choices, perhaps help Hank with information from his death bed, I know you guys will find a way for his family to survive if not him....

I have another question xD

will this show last 5-6 seasons?

Have you given it any thought on making a movie of Breaking Bad using the original cast?

Q. Bob Odenkirk's character Saul Goodman the Irishman in disguise ( love the irony) makes reference to the Fredo in the Godfather and when Bob O plays God on Bill Maher's show he pokes fun at himself giving the roll of Sonny in the Godfather. Is this a coincident?
And how much did Kimberly-Clark pay for product placement in the scene where Hank is interrogating a drug suspect and makes reference to "jerking off" into a Kleenex which is TM opposed to it's proper name tissue ?

Best show I've ever seen 'cause it's real. Writing/Directing and acting is excellent!

Fred G (Toronto On Canada)

Giving the roll of Sonny to James Caan.

Does the name "Heisenberg" have any kind of special significance or meaning to Walt? Or was it just a random name he made up and decided to use?

Thanks again for answering some questions.

I didn't understand how Walt exchanged the "product" for the cash. Did he leave the bag of meth somewhere at the De Anza motel, out on east Central, then the "distributors" came, took it, and left the cash ? That seems risky on several levels ....???

Q: Which episode was your favorite to see on the small screen?

Q: Will Jesse's family be in Season 3?

Spacko, Heisenberg was a scientist who had an uncertainty principle. I'm not that smart, I googled up the name awhile ago. Here's a link to it.
http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Heisenburg+Uncertainty+Principle

Vince, it's great to see you answering our questions!

Though I have many, I will keep it short and simple...How and where did you get your big "break?" No pun intended!

Thanks again for creating Breaking Bad and for the video contest!

Daniel J

I know in one of the senses where Skyler showed her stomach it was actually Betsy Brandt's stomach shown and it made me curious. Is the baby that played Walter and Skyler's newborn Betsy Brandt's actual newborn?

Hello Mr. Gilligan, thank you for bringing this great story and it's characters to life. My question is

I was very touched and moved by Walter Jr's "Save Walter White.com" website he created, I am even more moved by the real thing, which will hopefully bring in donations for real life Walter's and Walter jrs. My question is, who's idea was it to set up the site as a place for real life charity? Was it just a natural "progression" of the concept, or did a specific person suggest it? Are there any thoughts for setting up donations to other charities involving cancer, or perhaps drug abuse? Regardless, thank you for doing it, I hope someone out there is helped in someway.

Vince -

What an outstanding job you and all the others associated with BB have done!!!

Questions:

Any more Elliot / Gretchen / Grey Matter in the future? There is apparently SUCH a great backstory there that is the driving motivator for Walt that I would love to see...

Showing the descent of a good and compassionate man into irredemable evil is a very fine tightrope to walk as a storyteller. Walt obviously has the best interests of his family at heart but as time goes on he is increasingly pursuing self-gratification of his ego as his primary goal. His actions are already beyond redemption by any reasonable standard. How can you keep Walt sympathetic (as opposed to interesting or fascinating) to the audience as he gets into darker and darker levels of his journey?

Kudos for creating a multi-dimensional Tony Soprano for the 21st Century.

I have ANOTHER question, too! Ummm...better make that...QUESTIONS! =)

When your ideas, for the characters in Breaking Bad, are still just "bouncing around" in your head...
Which ones could you most imagine yourself as? Or, do you strongly identify, with all of them?

AND...which would you rather be?
A Hero...or, a Villain?!? BWA ha ha ha!!! >=)

Named the baby Holly..

what a good guy you are ;)

so sweet to your gf

also....

Hancock ... great movie :)

When will the season 2 dvd be available??? i really need to know i got my girl friend addicted to breaking bad when i sent her season one!! i need season 2 badly or there are dire consequences in my future

HELPPP!!
great show best on tv

Skinny Pete Will he to be a semi-regular cast member and friend of Jesse's? Will Badger ever come back? Will Jesse make some new friends?

First I'd like to thank you for creating the all around Best show I have ever witnessed!
How did Bob Odenkirk get involved with Breaking Bad? and in regards to kid rock being on the show do you have alot of big name blowin your phone up so they can get incognito cameos?
one more quick question, How excactly did you manage to cast such diverse and amazing actors?? whether it's a series regular, extra, or celeb cameo the part seems like it was specifically written for that one actor!! Your show is so AMAZING that even your craft services workers are the best ever!!!

Me, again! =\ I absolutely LOVE the type of humour, that's in your show! The actors/actresses pull it off, to perfection!

How often do you & the writers, come up with humour SO dark...that you have to decide, "No...we'd better NOT put that one in!"
And, if Breaking Bad, were to be made into a movie...would you be able to put those scenes into it?

Who's the biggest Prankster, of the Cast & Crew?
What's the Best/Worst prank pulled, so far?

Speaking of MOVIE...
Will there ever be, a "Breaking Bad Movie"??
=)

My question is simple: What is the "positive" message you hope to ultimately accomplish with your show? At this point, I can see none. Ironically, I lead a ladies chemical dependency group on Sunday evenings at our church. When I get home, your show is just coming on. I know if any of my ladies turn on the TV at that time & they see blatant, graphic drug depictions & use, their recovery from their own addiction is endangered. It is the same for any man, woman, boy or girl struggling to overcome addiction. I am appalled at the subject matter of Breaking Bad & the "gray area" of drug use it portrays. Mr. Gilligan, there is no "gray area" & your show will never accomplish anything positive in it's current state. Perhaps your intent is nothing more than earning $$. That is sick in itself. My hope & prayer is that you will change the direction of the show & expose drug use & addiction for the horrible destroyer of lives that it is. May God have mercy on you.

Will the kidnaping experience with Tuco come back to haunt Walt ? he did empty his pockets on the table and Tuco took possesion of Walt's family picture, I don't remember he ever putting it back in his pocket, Hank was bound to search everything from Tucos dead body to the entire shack while wating for the back up to arrive, he has to suspect something , but perhaps is holding back given the Whites current situation with the cancer and the baby......

Dear Mrs J monday, there's is no positive message in this show, it is in fact showing what life is like when involved with drugs, nothing goes right, it is all stress and downhill, sure it may affect addicts in early recovery, I surely would'nt recomend it to none of them, some scenes may be way too graphic for some of them to handle, but all you can do is warn them, you can't make any body not watch it, I belive it's unfair of you to condem Mr Gillian, he's not the first to work this type of material and he certainly won't be the last, I feel I must warn you to brace your self , because just like drugs have flooded this country for years on end, there will be more tv shows than ever exploiting the subject of drug abuse, it seems there are so many addicts in this country that tv shows concentrating on the drug subject are all ready guaranteed a major audience, I know and agree it is a sad statement on this country but it was bound to happen just as drug use continues to run rampant despite all efforts by the authorities,may God bless you and help your as you continue to help others aginst this terrible decease ........

Hi! Thanks for making the best show on TV right now! I was wondering, assuming this show doesn't get canceled (and it better not), how long do you plan on keeping this show on the air? As in, how many seasons do you think this show will probably end up having?

Quote by J Monday: ...expose drug use & addiction for the horrible destroyer of lives that it is.

NOT being smart-alecky, but SINCERE, in defense of this show...
I feel, he ALREADY, is showing the destruction it causes!!! NO action, WITHOUT consequence, is shown, in Breaking Bad.
Too many times, it has "put me, in their shoes" and, made me shudder!
NOTHING is worth, what CAN & often DOES happen, either in this show...or, real life!
In my most humble opinion...it makes for an extremely good deterrent!

While I feel your motive, for your post, is with good intentions...
"A sin, is a sin...is a sin..."
Self-righteousness & judgement, on another person counts as that.

Vince, thank you for making such a great show.

I'm also a fan of the X-Files, and I think the episodes written by Darin Morgan (Jose Chung's From Outer Space, War of the Coprophages, Humbug, etc.) are a special treat for anyone who has watched them.

Given your past connection, is there a chance Darin Morgan might become involved with Breaking Bad in season 3?

Vince,

Not a question, just a comment.

I was blown away by the last episode. What a pivotal moment Walt faced --having to decide to try and save Jesse's gf while she was suffocating on her own heroin induced vomit or allow her to slip away with the perhaps unrealistic hope that Jesse would get it together without her as a negative influence in his life. Stunning and so true to the split second choices people have to make in life sometimes.

Breaking Bad is genius.

Best,

Keira (NYC)

my favorite show hands down. horrible as it was I'm glad the gf choked on her own vomit, but i'm curious... why take a character that was so sympathetic and looked like she might be Jesse's saving grace, and then take them down the junkie path only to end that journey before it really got going? i hated the whole heroin idea cause it never played true. jesse's just a lost guy who hits the meth now and then but never showed any real addictive tendencies. she was really working one day at a time and they have one bad emotional patch and she turns him? that just played too thin for me. everything else is SO tight, so "where ya goin' with that, vince?"

ps- thanks for what must have been a tough fight with the suits to get bryan cranston. that guy's BRILLIANT.

I have 2 questions. The first question relates to the episode where Jane and Jesse first start their relationship... a biker drives by and sees Jesse and calls him Pinkman even though its obvious Jesse has never seen the guy before. How could the biker guy driving by know who Jesse is and what Jesse looks like if he never met him?

The other question relates to the first time Hank says "the name Heisenburg keeps coming up" To my knowledge at that point in the show he had only used the name Heisenberg with Tuco and I'm sure Tuco wouldn't be putting his business out on the street like that. How would Hank have gotten that information when he never actually caught or talked to Tuco, NoDoze, or Gonzo the only people that Heisenberg dealt with?

Vince --

This is the best show on television right now. You guys have gone from very good in Season 1 to simply incredible in Season 2.

My question(s): Could you have made Breaking Bad for network TV? Would you have wanted to?

Hi Vince,

Congratulations on one of the best shows ever made.

I'm wondering why--in the penultimate episode of season two--you had Walt witness Jane's death as opposed to accidentally setting it in motion (by stirring Jesse) and then leaving the room?

Thanks,
Chris

Love your show!
Q----> In episode 12, Jane and her father attend a support group. Who was the actor who spoke briefly, the one who looked like Kid Rock??
Thanks!

I am curious about the teddy bear as well. Where do you get your info about the drug cartel, druggies, DEA,etc? Have you talked to people on the streets? Cops? Your street value for drugs is almost as accurate as the REAL street value for ice. I love your show. Please don't give any hints for season 3. I'm 63 so please don't think that you only a younger audience.I sent a comment in prior to this and it disappeared so maybe you will get another one from me similar to this one. I'm not on dope...just my computer.

Bravo on Breaking Bad - I find it enthralling and very entertaining.

I live in Albuquerque, and I would very much enjoy an opportunity to be considered as an extra or to watch some filming. Is there someone I can contact to ask about this?

Thanks,
Jason

Vince,
On almost every podcast you mention the lack of funds to bring your vision to life. Why doesn't someone sell BB merchandise to assist the revenue stream? Just reading the comments every week makes me believe that the customers are waiting.

VINCE- don't even think about a Sopranos fade/cut to black ending. We will hunt you down.

Was there any particular reason the major drug deal between Gus and Walt wasn't shown? Also will the spare tire Walt threw from his vehicle come back to implement him (like the gas mask from season one)?

I love your show, it's the best drama on Television, no question!
I was wondering, is there a discussion at prep or on set of drug related aesthetics? For example, the process of shooting heroin and the effects that follow, or what kind of lighter is used when smoking crystal meth? Very important choice because depending on the one you select, you might destroy all your drugs.
All of the drug use I've ever seen in film or television i feel are just a tad off. If Breaking Bad could go the extra mile by authenticating the Junkies and their methods, it would generate this extra layer of grime and sleaze, the one thing constant in a drug addicts life. Again I love your show and hope it continues for many seasons.
Mike Sandy Pants

Dear Vince:

You and your writers are twisted. Keep it up, I love it!

That said, my main complaint about the show is the lack of questions Skyler has had for Walt. Every wife I know (including mine) would not let her husband get off scott-free if he repeatedly disappeared for a few hours and always had a lame excuse, especially if he had terminal cancer and his "family time" were coming to a sudden abrupt end.

So...why has Skyler chosen to remain (mostly) silent?

Dear Vince:

Jesse's back story seems a little...untold. What series of events caused him to break bad? He's not a bad kid, just misguided.

Dear Vince:

BrBa seems to have attracted a fair share of former and current drug users among its viewer base. How will this affect advertisements on the show? Will there be a rash of snack food ads during the commercial breaks for season 3?

Also...was the Funyuns appearance in S2 Ep9 (4 Days Out) a paid product placement?

Vince,

An easy YES/NO for you.. HARRISON FORD in the mini-market early on season two? I'm heavy on the YES. Oh, and can't thank you and your team for trying to get QUALITY TV off the endangered list. Can't wait for more.

Vince,
In episode 10 there was a scene where Jesse is cooking in his kitchen using a glass frying pan. Can you give us details on where we can find one of those? I have searched and searched and not found anything like it anywhere.
Thanks for the great interactive website and for creating the most realistic show on tv today!

Vince,
In episode 10 there was a scene where Jesse is cooking in his kitchen using a glass frying pan. Can you give us details on where we can find one of those? I have searched and searched and not found anything like it anywhere.
Thanks for the great interactive website and for creating the most realistic show on tv today!

Vince,
In episode 10 there was a scene where Jesse is cooking in his kitchen using a glass frying pan. Can you give us details on where we can find one of those? I have searched and searched and not found anything like it anywhere.
Thanks for the great interactive website and for creating the most realistic show on tv today!

Hello there Vince! Thank you for this great opportunity to talk to you. I have a question about the name Walt uses as his alter ego…”Heisenberg”. Was this a nod to the physicist of the early 20th century by the name of Werner Heisenberg? He developed what’s known as “The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle”. Basically, it’s a theory that states that that light has two forms....it can be viewed as a solid ray of light... or as a grouping of individual particles. It (light) must only decide which form to take on once it's being observed. Kind of like our character Walt/Heisenberg. Depending whom he’s with he adapts a different form. When around his family, he takes on the form of mild-manned Walt. When he is observed by the criminal people in his life he takes on the Heisenberg persona. Depending on who's viewing him, he must decide what form to take on.... just like light does according to Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle of quantum mechanics. Am I correct in that Heisenberg's name was no accident…..or I am just thinking waaaay too hard ; ) ?

Wow, Vince. This show is so solid. It seems to plod along, slowly and meticulously placing one foot in front of the other. Yet the fires of hell are burning on our right and left, in front and behind. There is no obvious path through this inferno. New exploding flames erupt weekly. What fun!

Its a fascinating slo-mo saunter through chaos. Like life itself.

How about some sales of hats, shirts with BB logos. I would love that and I'm sure tons of fans out there would think its about time too. Love ya.

Jesse's Love LIfe Is Jesse going to get a few more shots at love? It'd be interesting to see what other kind of woman you could have Jesse involved with, and how he'd function with the type of work he's in - especially if it mirrored Walt's troubles, but a younger version.

Last May I saw an advertisement for Breaking Bad season 2 to begin on Sunday night, and all of Season 1 was going to be shown back to back on Friday night. After 30 minutes of BB I was hooked. You have such incredible writers, great storylines, in-depth characters, great actors...TV for the THINKING person! What a concept. After I watched season one all in one night, I debated if I could handle watching season 2 and having to wait a week between each episode. Thought of just waiting till season 3 starts so I could see all of season 2 back to back, but I couldn't hold out.

Absolutely LOVE Breaking Bad. What do we have to do to get the previous seasons ep's online? I love that I can go back to any year of Lost and rewatch whatever ep I need. (That is the only other show on that gets me thinking for days and days) I especially like to watch all of the past year right before the new year starts...these 6 - 8 month dry spells without our shows - not good. Now I haven't done any really Breaking Bad drugs in about 25 years, but watching your show can get me gritting my teeth and squirming around, so you really gotta give us access to the past seasons episodes to hold us over those long dry months waiting next year. Pleeeze...put in a word to AMC!

First of all, just wanted to say I LOVE the show. It's absolutely amazing.
I don't want to know a whole lot, part of the fun of watching is being kept in suspense of what's going to happen next. I just want to know if a date has been set for the Season 3 premiere?! It has to be soon!!!

I got into the show from the premiere, and have been blown away by it's depth, and it's ever deepening moral dilemma for the main characters. I've gotten to really look forward to the new episodes.

That said, I just finished watching "Phoenix" and I have to say, I don't know where the show can go after this one. Walter is now a murderer. Jane was knocked over onto her back because of Walter breaking in to their apartment, and when she began vomiting, Walter did nothing. That makes him, finally, a murderer. His morality has been pretty much over the edge for awhile, but even the people that he and Jesse have had to kill were at least at some level, self-defense, but Jane's death was cold blooded murder on Walter's part.

All he had to do was push her onto her side, and she'd have been alive...and the show, obviously, would have taken an entirely different direction than it is now forced to go. Is this headed into Soprano's territory? If so, I may have to get off the train, as I did with the Sopranos. It got to be too much darkness and too little balance. Dramatic balance, in the end calls for Walter's death, and the only way I see that is if Jesse kills him, either after Walter confesses to him, or Jesse finds some evidence that Walt was there...and if he does kill him, he may just kill himself afterward...end of series, end of story. Since it appears there will be a 3rd season, it would appear that this is not the case.

However, there is that cryptic bit around the pool with the hazmat team and the evidence bags, that indicates something bad is definitely coming. The last time that motif ran, it ended with two unidentified bodies in body bags on Walt and Skyler's driveway. So...can you give me a reason to continue watching, or is this show now headed for the end of the diving board that leads to hell?

I want to keep watching (and probably will anyway), but perhaps a little encouragement? Clearly this baby's headed into darker territory now that Walt's moral compass has been shattered, and he's literally got nothing to lose anymore. I do think there may be some remorse on his part for Jane's death...damn, she was one of the only redeeming things to come into Jesse's life, regardless of the drug use. She was a sympathetic character who didn't deserve to die! Man...gimme a reason...please!

Vince, I hope you take the time to read all the comments and questions. By far, you have crafted the best writing and cinematography on TV, which keeps viewers waiting, thinking and on the edge at every episode.
This is the best show on TV, without a doubt! I have basic cable, that includes AMC and not much of a TV person, never have been, but am totally hooked on BB, and the 12$/month is worth seeing this show alone even if there was static on every other channel, screw all the other crap. I remember first seeing previews for the show, before the pilot, and was slightly disturbed on the concept, but you have proven me wrong.
It really is genius!!!!!
My parents, both in there 60's, are hooked, and you have created one master show.
Only problem is, I can't wait to long till third season.
On a side note, like most other viewers am dying to know about the two body bags and stuffed animal in the pool. Fear there is connection to Holly? Hope I'm wrong?

PEOPLE!!!!

This is a Q&A thread, not a "kiss Vince's butt" thread. Put your education to use and read the title. Having some patience would be a good thing as well -- you only need to press the submit button once.

Here is an example of a legitimate question:

Vince:

How many more episodes has AMC ordered?

Mr. Gilligan~ Thank you for your most riveting show! As a former Albuquerquean but as an actor in Los Angeles for over 10 years, my husband and I love seeing Albuquerque as an additional character and appreciate the local references. You may have already addressed this as I am late in finding this site but how did you decide on ABQ as your location? (besides the tax insentives)

Thanks too fo the most poignant scene ever between Jesse and the little redheaded boy in Peakaboo. Award worthy. AMAZING casting and performances! Overall, I envy ALL your actors! What a great and exciting gig!

In gratitude, ABQTW

Vince, I know we are will past Marie's Klepto Issue, but are we to assume that she is clean (Not stealing/ shoplifting) anymore? Her character is screaming to be abused some more, she is Insane. Every time she opens her mouth and says something, I have to laugh, she is so incredibly self absorbed.

Although we love the second second - dramatically - as well as the first...the show has become less philosophical and less deep. All that subtext about how life and chemistry come together to form something more is missing. Don't get me wrong; it's the best written (and edited) show on TV - but bring back the philosophy that you had in season one.

This was my response to a recent blog: No, Walt is not unlikeable... he's real! And the only reason you or anyone would call this series "crossing the line" and/or "taking chances" is because you don't watch great foreign films. They do this stuff in good foreign films all the time. It's only Hollywood and their crap machine that doesn't do stuff like this. Shakespeare did stuff like this! Everything on TV is hollowed down to its simplest, most moronic form. BREAKING BAD - for TV - is a breath of fresh air! It's so well written...it's astonishing. And as good as this season is - and it's terrific - it's not as good as season one. Season one was much more philosophical and a bit deeper - this season is certainly as dramatic and still a revelation for a TV show!

Allen Williams

Hope By the series name, we know it's not going to end well for Walt White. Even though the story pretty much seems destined for a sad end, will you have any kind of suggestion of hope in the series finale? (I guess I can't stand the idea that for all the suffering and destruction that will go on, that there won't be some good that emerges from it, too).

Oh, and please don't jump the shark and do a hallucinatory dream as the final fadeout. I really want to see how the writers are going to solve this puzzle.

Vince ---THANKS so very much to the cast, crew and the especially the writers for such a quality, bold series.

My questions---- With regards to the writing staff, do they all have a rough idea of what an upcoming season (let's say, season 3) needs to have happen and do you assign certain writers to certain "beats" in the overall plan of 13 episodes (knowing each writer's strengths from past episodes they've written?)

Do you have an overall 5 season plan in your head and is AMC "on board" with that plan?
It would be awful for the fans to have this series cancelled before the storyline is completed all because the main character slides from being a total good guy with bad luck into a total bad guy who makes his own luck and AMC loses viewers because the main character would no longer be sympathetic at all. I for one, and a large part of the core fan base (as you can tell from the talk forum) find the transformation of Walt quite exciting

From your point of view Is there any moral ambiguity about what Walt did at the end of Phoenix or was it pretty clear cut morally wrong?

The reason I ask is that while I had thought the writers were trying to show in this scene/act how far Walt had fallen morally, I have seen in forums that a lot of people think Walt was right to do 'what he had to in order to protect his family' and that Jane had it coming/deserved it, and as a junkie was not worth saving so on. It is disturbing to me how many people seem think this kill was justifiable (and I have to wonder if they would judge such a situation in 'real life' the same way and if yes that is so depressing). I would really love to hear from you on this.

In response to those claiming this show glorifies drug use/at least the selling of drugs. I think that the ending will be tragic. I love Walt's character but I think the final season will bring everything crashing down on him. The only thing that really matters to him is his family and I think that is what he is going to lose. What a great show. I watched the last episode twice. The scene where he let Jane die was heart-breaking. Bravo!!!!

Mr. G:

First of all, thank you for creating (and selling) this series. It can't have sounded appealing to network suits, a problem I have trying to recruit new viewers ("It's a darkly humorous drama about a terminally-ill chemistry teacher who cooks meth to make as much money as possible for his family before he dies. Great stuff!")

Anyway, taking a long view: How long do you envision the story continuing? Is it the sort of plot arc that diminishes in intensity if it stretched out too long?

Thanks!

Ray K
Davis, CA
A huge fan since the pilot aired....

Vince -

I have really enjoyed the B&W swimming pool / teddy bear prologues, which show you and the writing staff heve a very definite idea where the season is actually going to end up instead of just wander around hither and yond. Were these shots influenced by similar ones in Schindler's List (the girl in the red coat) or the opening sequence of the Kevin Costner movie A Perfect World? I think there are similarities between Walt/Jesse relationship and that between the Costner character and the child he is with throughout APW...

Hey Vince,

I just wanted to say I really enjoy your use of symbolism and foreshadowing throughout the show.

My question is if Walt and Marie talking about keeping the baby on its side with the towel and whatnot was meant to connect with Jane chocking on her vomit in "Phoenix" or if I'm just reading to far into it.

Thanks,
Matt

Vince, I wonder if when you first began writing the scripts, you envisioned how Walt would sink as Jesse would rise. To me, the inner Jesse is far more honest and honorable than Walt, who sinks lower into degradation, dishonesty and lack of compassion--and the deadly sin of pride--as the series progresses. Is each man destined to be the savior of the other?

It's a great show, the best on TV, and the morality issues in it are complex, multi-layered and sometimes damn shocking.

Vince Congratulations on a Great Show.
I've seen thousands of hours of TV and know what I'm talking about.

Breaking Bad rocks like no other.

One question how did the show come about?
Do you know someone who got diagnosed with cancer?
Don't we all?

Keep up the good work, we'll watch.

Yes...just like a recurring bout, of Montezuma's revenge...it's me, again! =\ Sorry! Ha ha!

While it appears mainly out of "self preservation", the subject of vigilantism runs strong, in Breaking Bad.
If time allows...
Do you see the show ever touching upon, the vigilantes that either:
Want to help "bring down" the Drug Manufacturers, Dealers, & Users...
Or, are trying to help the people, on the drugs, get out of their bad situations?

Also, do you have plans on showing, how people are often used, unwittingly, as Mules?

AND...in the course, of your show...
Is there a chance, you will hit upon the subject of Human Trafficking?

Thanks, for putting up with me!!! =)

I've been thoroughly entertained by and enthralled with Breaking Bad. Thank You!
Breaking Bad needs to win more Emmys for this season. Bryan has got to repeat, and Aaron Paul is especially deserving. His work has really stepped up to the plate this season. What's being done to make sure you guys score lots of hardware this year? What can your loyal fan base do to help?

Thank-you AMC and Vince Gilligan for turning me into Breaking Bad junkie. I find myself going into withdrawls every week while waiting for my next fix of Breaking Bad !!!
YO!!
When will season 3 be out? Will Jesse blame himself for Jane`s death?

Dear Vince,

Kudos on making the best show on tv, and kudos to AMC for having the courage to show it.

My question: obviously the show has to show the negative consequences of Walt's choices, and drama needs Walt to face obstacles, but to what extent do you feel constricted in your ability to allow Walt some success? Tony Soprano never really got his comeuppence (as far as we know)--he wasn't killed or thrown in jail--do you see that as a possibility for Walt or do you HAVE to have him killed (by cancer or violence) or thrown in jail? It seems to me that there is more pressure to make Walt pay for his choices than there would be if he had been a cold-blooded hit man, and I'm wondering if you have any thoughts about that.

Have you been close to someone who went through chemo or radiation treatments? Those scenes tore us up.

A quick reply to jamm54's question at 4:06 AM on May 25, 2009
"Full Episodes Online on AMC Site Will AMC or Sony ever reverse their policy on this, and put the full episodes on-line?"
=====
Currently on the AMC website
http://www.amctv.com/videos/breaking-bad/
You can watch Episodes 1 and 2 of Season 2 online in full-screen HD.

My question is pretty simple. What could I do to get a walk on role on Breaking Bad?

I've always wanted to do television and movies, but really can't break into the business. I know appearing on Breaking Bad wouldn't get me into the big time, but it would make me happier than anything else. All my friends and family watch BrBa religiously, so it would just be so cool. I would pay for my travel, lodging, and food. I would even appear for free. So, pretty please? I'll return the favor somehow!

Vince, could I get a small part on your show ???!!
I could play a dead guy or a pool cleaner,grocery clerk,speed freak,heroin dealer......ice cream truck
driver ???!!! (Pretty good idea Ha !?) I'll do ''ANYTHING'', you want !!!! Clean up the set,help
building the sets,wash all your guy's cars,run errands !! Help trim Bryan cranston mushtach !!! I will WORK for FREE !!

How long did you work on the idea ??? please, dont tell me it just all came together over night

thanks for your time, Will P.
p.s. I'll keep checking the blog for your reponse,daily or until the show goes off the air !! What ever comes first !!!!!!!!!!!

My main question is how has the show changed from what you originally envisioned? I heard that Jesse was suppose to die season one and that Tuco was suppose to be in a few more shows. You also had to do script changes when Raymond Cruz left the show.

How old is Jesse suppose to be?

Does Walt's script note when he shifts to Heisenberg? I saw him go from Walt to H-Berg when he was talking to Jane on the phone. The camera shifted to one side of a post or something.

Is there going to be a soundtrack? The music has always been a great part of the show, esp the montage scenes.

How do you go about checking continuity such as much is $1.2 million suppose to weigh and how much space will it take up?

Will any of Walt's students actually pass Chem?

The pink toy reminds me of Harry Lime in The Third Man.

Also joining the club for people who want merchandise..

Vince

Is there a reason why Walt 'slipped up' and hid the money (all half a million of it) behind the washer/dryer, behind the insulation, in the LAUNDRY ROOM ?

We haven't yet established who in the family handles all the laundry chores (which admittedly is not a priority to show at any time during any particular 50 minute episode BUT.....if Skyler or Walt Jr should happen to start poking around in there....

Or perhaps one day the washer/dryer breaks and Walt is off (as usual) doing whatever it is that he does and Skyler, anxious to get the laundry done... calls a repairman to the house......

I think maybe Walt 'the good' is desperate to get caught and he over rode any better hiding place scenerio that Heisenburg may have been thinking of

Just a wild guess on my part of course......Unless it was just another brilliant metaphor that ties into the money laundering scheme by Saul.

Still, it seems to me to be a really dangerous hiding place

To Iggybliss--

I totally agree with you.
Hollywood is full run on fear which is why we get lots of watered down television. There are occassions where a producer gets lucky and slips a really good show through the cracks.....
Hill Street Blues
The Wire
M*A*S*H
The Sopranos
(and you can all add your own award winners)

The GOOD part about such rare television, is that sometimes Hollywood wants to copy it. For awhile at least.
With luck, we'll be able to see similar quality programming on various cable channels as they try to duplicate BB's success. Which is all good for us.

For awhile.

I can imagine you shopping "NM teacher gets lung cancer and cooks drugs" around in the beginning. Congrads, congrads..

The Phoenix episode seems to paint Jessie and Walt into a final corner. Jane's dead, her Dad's coming for her rehab in the morning, Jesse's passed out, and Walt appearently has few options - Heisenburg even fewer..

Some assume there's a resounding 'crime doesn't pay' to Walt's future, but considering the US "for profit" healthcare system -- he and his family face much slower and far more criminal, more painful poverty and death anyway.

Thanks for a middle-class charactor who wouldn't fold.

Perhaps Walt will join Gus in the land of fast food chicken franchises - living happily ever after...

hi vince, big BB fan. Just wondered in case your in need of another bounder for future shows, I own a 1989 model bounder. Looking to put it up for sale this summer. Thought maybe it'd be of some interest to you and the show.

Wow....Just wow..I am completely addicted. I re-arrange my life to see every episode. Never before have I done this for any TV show! I'm not even into TV, except for this amazing show. I sure hope Skinny Pete comes back, he's a hoot. I'm already missing Tuco. I kept thinking his dad would show up, or someone that was connected. Walter and Jesse are greatness. I'm glad Walter has a soft spot for his partner. I can't believe this season is ending. I can't wait until next season! Thank you...Thank you...Thank you for the many hours of enjoyment and escape from the real world.

Great show! The acting, writing, and especially the screenplay are brilliant. I just have one request...Please don't let Cranston take his clothes off anymore. He's a great actor, but he's no Marky Mark.

Looking forward to the finale!

Is Holly Walt's Daughter?

Skyler seems too good to be true.

Vince, you have to check out zia's post in the episode 12 thread, approximately # 666, where he gives us a spoof itinerary for a tour of ABQ . It is hilarious, and really should be picked up by AMC and provided to the fans as a laminated souvenenir for this season. I want one, along with a DVD of the season.

Vince,
I am curious as to why you chose New Mexico for your series and not using some metropolitan city . Do you believe it is more believable setting in a more barren landscape with lots of land out in the middle of no where.....Like in the film, "Casino" where many secrets are hidden in that desert as Joe pesi quotes in the movie. Just as in this series, many secrets are also hidden with the making of meth in the desert. Do you feel a city location would take away from the series and harder to film and more expensive? Why Albuquerque? Why not Santa Fe, or Taos? I often wonder if the series location would "make" or "take away" from the series.

Vince...
Also wanted to say...Please do NOT put this series into a movie form..it would ruin the series and become too "cheesy" with hollywood characters, lousy actors and actresses demanding millions to play their particular roles. What makes this series special is that it doesn't have the cheesy hollywood attached to it and makes it beliveable. Too many good original scripts have gone down that road and been trashed or ruined with re-writes and poor choices for the cast. You have chosen the cast that makes this series so wonderful compared to the lame writing and poor casting films of today. Keep the series refreshing approach to a simple format as it is. You know this will be a classic in todays light and years to come......you have to be walking on air knowing your series has made a huge hit with many many fans adoring your ability to write and direct. Thank You, Vince!....Linda