Vince Gilligan, the creator behind the iconic series Breaking Bad, is venturing into new creative territory with his upcoming Apple TV series, Pluribus. After years spent crafting the complex narratives surrounding anti-heroes like Walter White and Saul Goodman, Gilligan felt a strong need to create a lead character focused on altruism and doing the right thing.
His inspiration for Pluribus began to take shape during the development of Better Call Saul around 2016. Gilligan envisioned a world where peace and kindness prevailed, a sharp contrast to the morally grey waters he had navigated for nearly two decades. A pivotal figure in this new narrative is Carol Sturka, played by Rhea Seehorn, who garnered praise for her role in Better Call Saul. Gilligan describes Carol as a misanthropic romance author on a quest to address a mysterious global affliction that affects society. The character’s complex dynamics present a refreshing take on heroism, marked by imperfections and relatable flaws.
The show’s decision to construct an entirely new cul-de-sac neighborhood in Albuquerque highlights Gilligan’s desire to create a unique setting for Pluribus, largely to avoid the tourism disturbances that often accompany filming in existing residential areas. Fans of Breaking Bad will recognize the challenges faced by locals who had to contend with overzealous visitors. By building a new environment, Gilligan aims to preserve the tranquility of neighborhoods while maintaining the artistic integrity of his work.
Pluribus is set to feature Gilligan’s signature blend of dark humor and poignant commentary, exploring themes such as the isolating effects of fame and the challenges of navigating a world transformed by kindness. The series promises to maintain Gilligan’s knack for complex storytelling while embodying the refreshing spirit of its titular hero, Carol Sturka.
With a two-episode series premiere slated for November 7 on Apple TV, anticipation continues to build around this genre-bending project. Viewers can expect an engaging mix of familiar storytelling elements from Gilligan’s past works, alongside a new narrative that champions kindness and heroism in a time when such themes may feel particularly relevant. Through Pluribus, Gilligan invites audiences to embrace the complexities of humanity while rooting for a protagonist committed to making the world a better place.