The fifth season of Better Call Saul won't premiere until some time in 2020. Beginning life in 2015, the Breaking Bad spinoff has definitely moved out of its parent show's shadow after delivering four critically-acclaimed, Emmy nominated runs that served up plenty of surprises in Vince Gilligan's Albuquerque. While Better Call Saul may not have reached the same level in the zeitgeist as its groundbreaking predecessor, it's currently one of the best dramas on television and a terrific showcase for Bob Odenkirk. The actor's demonstrated his trademark character isn't just a sleazy lawyer.
Last year, Better Call Saul ended with the moment fans have been waiting for since the series was announced. Getting his law license back, a triumphant Jimmy McGill announced his intentions to practice under the name Saul Goodman, forging his own path rather than trying to conform in the system that rejected him for years. Gilligan and company - rightfully, it can be argued - played the long haul in getting to this point, but viewers are going to have to wait some more before they see the fully-realized Saul take on some clients.
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In an interview with Vulture, AMC Networks president of the entertainment networks group Sarah Barnett was asked about Better Call Saul's future. She mentioned the series won't return to the air until 2020, a decision that apparently stems from "talent needs." Barnett said she wouldn't want to rush the next season, because that could negatively impact its quality.
As disappointing as this is for fans to hear, an extended break between seasons is probably for the best. Gilligan is renowned for his meticulous planning and compelling, dramatic narratives, so AMC is wise to give him all the time he needs. Given how well the first four seasons of Better Call Saul turned out, it would be a shame if its fifth year marked a decline, especially since Saul is likely reaching its endpoint. The spinoff is creeping closer and closer to Breaking Bad's starting point, and everyone knew Saul had something of a limited shelf life when it kicked off. In the interview, Barnett indicated the team is nearing the conclusion of their arc, and all viewers would agree they'd prefer for Saul to go out with a bang - regardless of how long it took.
Another factor to keep in mind here is the Breaking Bad movie, which Gilligan is writing and directing. The film, which reportedly revolves around an escaped Jesse Pinkman trying to get his feet back on the ground, seems to be Gilligan's top priority at the moment. Pieces are starting to fall into place for the movie (earlier this year, an alleged cast list hit the web), so it's possible Gilligan put Saul on the back-burner for now while he concentrates on his latest project.
More: How Better Call Saul Can Set Up The Breaking Bad Movie
Source: Vulture