The fourth season of AMC’s phenomenal Breaking Bad begins next Sunday, but already the end of the series is in sight. In an interview with the New York Times, series creator Vince Gilligan told them that the fifth season of the show would probably be its last. According to the Times, Gilligan “can imagine a fifth season of Breaking Bad, but that’s it.” Writer’s fatigue may be the cause of the show’s demise, Gilligan explained. “It’s hard to write a character that dark and morally ambiguous,” said Gilligan. “I’m going to miss the show when it’s over, but on some level,it’ll be a relief to not have Walt in my head anymore.” And if you have seen the show, you know that he’s not exaggerating about that “dark and morally ambiguous” bit.
Breaking Bad tells the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher who is diagnosed with cancer and turns drug dealer in order to support his family after his death. As the series progresses, Walter turns from reluctant criminal to something far more disturbing.
While we’ll be sad to see the incredible series go, there’s been little question that Walter White’s story would come to an end sooner rather than later. Breaking Bad isn’t a sitcom that can return to the status quo at the end of an episode, the series has more narrative momentum than anything else on television. Having a set endpoint ahead can be a blessing for a heavily serialized show, as it allows the writers to move the story towards and endpoint. The only question that remains is if AMC is willing to let their most acclaimed show go. I imagine that the consolation of Mad Men will make their decision easier.
Here’s a brand new trailer for Season 4, in order to tide you over until the July 17 release. Though it may just make news of the series’ imminent demise even more painful.
Source: NYTimes (via CinemaBlend)
