When “Better Call Saul” aired its emotionally charged finale on August 15, 2022, it did more than just conclude a series—it redefined what a prequel could achieve.
Of course, when its predecessor “Breaking Bad” reached its iconic status, the next logical step was to broaden the universe. Yet, who could have predicted that its prequel would not only match its brilliance but, in many ways, surpass it?
Created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, and featuring unforgettable performances by Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn, “Better Call Saul” took a formulaically written unlikable character we thought we knew — flashy criminal lawyer Saul Goodman — and gave us the very likable Jimmy McGill, a deeply complex man grappling with his identity.
The brilliantly written show which is an exercise in Shakespearean-level character drama also offers the backstories of other familiar faces like Mike Ehrmantraut and Gus Fring but also introduces new characters—Kim Wexler, Ignacio “Nacho” Varga—who steal the show.
If you’ve already binged (and re-binged) this masterpiece, you’re in luck. We’ve curated a list of shows that capture the same intricate character dynamics, moral quandaries, and narrative depth that made “Better Call Saul” a television phenomenon. Read on to find your next binge-worthy obsession.
Image Credit: Greg Lewis/AMC/Sony Pictures Television /IMDB.
1. ‘ Breaking Bad’ (2008–2013)
Where to stream: Netflix
Kicking off the list with a no-brainer, if you’re into “Better Call Saul,” you’ve probably already binged “Breaking Bad.” But just in case you haven’t, let’s talk. “Breaking Bad” debuted in 2008 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Created by Vince Gilligan, the show meticulously explores the moral descent of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. It’s an intense, edge-of-your-seat drama that earned numerous awards during its five-season run. While “Breaking Bad” focuses on the high stakes of the drug world and the consequences of ultimate power, “Better Call Saul” provides a more nuanced look at the legal world, and how even small choices can spiral out of control.
Image Credit: AMC.com.
2. ‘Ozark’ (2017–2022)
Where to stream: Netflix
Switching gears but not entirely, “Ozark” is another binge-worthy companion to “Better Call Saul.” Starring Jason Bateman, who also directed several episodes, and Laura Linney, “Ozark” takes you deep into the murky waters of money laundering in the Missouri Ozarks. Bateman’s character, a financial planner, finds himself in a tight spot and has to navigate the criminal underworld, much like our favorite morally flexible lawyer, Saul Goodman.
Image Credit: Ozark tv show scene.
3. ‘Barry’ (2018–2023)
Where to stream: Max
If you’ve got a soft spot for morally complex characters navigating a life of crime, then “Barry” is a must-see. Airing from 2018 to 2023, this HBO dark comedy-drama stars Bill Hader, who also co-created the show and has directed several episodes. Hader plays Barry, a hitman who stumbles into an acting class and contemplates changing his profession.
The show was met with critical acclaim throughout its run, and Hader won two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for his performance.
Much like “Better Call Saul,” “Barry” balances its darker themes with flashes of humor and keen character development. Both shows excel at humanizing characters who, under traditional storytelling, might be considered irredeemable
Image Credit: HBO/Imdb.
4. ‘The Wire’ (2002–2008)
Where to stream: Max
Like “Better Call Saul,” “The Wire” dives into a world full of complex characters and intricate storytelling Aired from 2002 to 2008 on HBO, this masterpiece by David Simon offers a gritty, no-holds-barred look at Baltimore’s drug scene. Forget one-dimensional heroes and villains; this show is all about complex characters entangled in the web of institutional dysfunction. Think of it as “Better Call Saul” if Jimmy McGill had to navigate not just corrupt law firms but an entire city crumbling under the weight of its own failings.
Boasting 60 episodes over five seasons, “The Wire” has received critical acclaim to the point where it’s practically its own genre. Time, Rolling Stone, and Entertainment Weekly have all heralded it as one of the greatest TV shows ever.
Image Credit: IMDB.
5. ‘The Americans’ (2013–2018)
Where to stream: Amazon Prime Video
“Better Call Saul” fans should not sleep on “The Americans.” Airing from 2013 to 2018 on FX, this Cold War spy drama centers around Elizabeth and Philip Jennings, played by Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys. They’re Soviet KGB agents pretending to be a typical American family in suburban Virginia. Talk about juggling work-life balance! Just like Saul Goodman struggles with dual identities, the Jennings couple navigates the tightrope between family values and Cold War espionage.
Racking up 18 Emmy nods, 5 Golden Globe nominations, and even snagging the Golden Globe for Best Drama in 2016, “The Americans” is critically acclaimed and a hit with audiences. It also serves up a delicious cocktail of patriotism, betrayal, and identity, much like our favorite Albuquerque lawyer.
Image Credit: FX/IMDb.
6. ‘Narcos’ (2015–2017)
Where to stream: Netflix
Running from 2015 to 2017 on Netflix, this American crime drama takes us into the life of infamous Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar, portrayed with charisma by Wagner Moura. The supporting cast isn’t too shabby either, featuring names like Pedro Pascal and Boyd Holbrook.
“Narcos” is more than just another drug lord story; it peels back the layers of an intricate crime world, much like “Better Call Saul” does with its legal escapades. Both series revel in the gray areas of their characters, making for some deliciously complex narratives. Garnering six Emmy and two Golden Globe nominations, “Narcos” is critically acclaimed and known for its authentic filming locations in Colombia. Whether you’re into crime dramas or just love delving into flawed characters, this one’s a must-add to your watchlist.
Image Credit: Netflix/Imdb.
7. ‘Billions’ (2016–2023)
Where to stream: Showtime
If the morally complex world of “Better Call Saul” enthralls you, then you’ll find a home in “Billions,” a high-stakes drama that revolves around the cat-and-mouse game between U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades, played by Paul Giamatti, and hedge fund manager Bobby Axelrod, portrayed by Damian Lewis. Airing from 2016 to 2023, this show delves deep into the financial sector’s darker corners, much like how “Better Call Saul” explores the legal system’s gray areas.
The series received high praise for its razor-sharp dialogue, intricate characters, and the sort of ethical dilemmas that would make any “Better Call Saul” fan feel right at home. It’s been nominated for a slew of awards, including six Primetime Emmys and four Golden Globes. Whether you’re a fan of legal quandaries, complex characters, or the financial world’s underbelly, “Billions” is a binge-worthy companion to “Better Call Saul.”
Image Credit: IMDb.
8. ‘Mr. Robot’ (2015–2019)
Where to stream: Amazon Prime Video
Dive into the cybernetic rabbit hole with “Mr. Robot,” a perfect pick for fans captivated by “Better Call Saul’s” complex characters and moral ambiguity. Created by Sam Esmail and airing from 2015 to 2019, the show stars Rami Malek as Elliot Alderson, a cybersecurity engineer who gets embroiled in an underground hacker group.
Much like “Better Call Saul,” the show expertly navigates the blurred lines between right and wrong, delving into themes of identity and the underbelly of society. Rami Malek’s compelling performance even won him a Primetime Emmy, echoing the critical acclaim that “Better Call Saul” enjoys. Plus, it’s got a star-studded supporting cast that includes Christian Slater and Carly Chaikin.
Image Credit: IMDb.
9. ‘Succession’ (2018–2023)
Where to stream: Max
If the ethical quandaries and family dynamics of “Better Call Saul” grabbed your attention, then you won’t want to miss “Succession.” Airing from 2018 to 2023, this critically acclaimed series created by Jesse Armstrong ended with one of the most talked-about finales in recent television history. Centered around the ultra-wealthy Roy family, the show examines the corrosive effects of power and wealth, much like the moral complexities explored in “Better Call Saul.”
Starring Brian Cox as patriarch Logan Roy, alongside standout performances from Jeremy Strong, Kieran Culkin, and Sarah Snook, “Succession” is both a dark comedy and a drama with teeth. Its sharp, witty dialogue and intricate plot twists have earned it numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmys.
Image Credit: IMDb.
10. ‘Fargo’ (2014–2024)
Where to stream: Hulu
If the moral ambiguities and criminal undertones of “Better Call Saul” keep you hooked, then “Fargo” should be next on your watchlist. Inspired by the 1996 film of the same name, this anthology series created by Noah Hawley has captivated audiences since 2014, and it’s set to conclude its run in 2024. Each season presents a new story, often involving crime and moral dilemmas in the icy settings of the American Midwest.
The show features a rotating ensemble cast that has included the likes of Billy Bob Thornton, Kirsten Dunst, and Ewan McGregor. Like “Better Call Saul,” “Fargo” thrives on complex characters, twisted narratives, and ethical puzzles, all seasoned with a dash of dark humor. It has been showered with awards, including Primetime Emmy nominations and wins.
This article was produced and syndicated by MediaFeed.
Image Credit: IMDb.
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