, because it’s nice seeing people smile. But my real self is as much the negative stuff.”
He further elaborates on the success of Breaking Bad: “I was nervous about leaving the Heisenberg universe.” Despite the doubts, Gilligan’s series managed to become a phenomenon that changed his career trajectory. “But there’s some years in the wilderness where it was like, ‘I’m never going to get to where I want to be,’ and suddenly, Breaking Bad happens,” he adds.
Industry Observations
Gilligan’s return with “Pluribus” is also a commentary on the current state of the television industry. He notes that while big budgets are common for shows based on proven IP, his new series is an original concept: “If you really want to wake me in a cold sweat at three in the morning, AI is the stick to poke me with,” he says. However, Gilligan remains optimistic about the enduring appeal of human-created stories.
Reflecting on the industry’s obsession with intellectual property, Gilligan suggests that new generations need their own original ideas: “Star Wars is great.
Marvel Comics is great,” he states. “I’m a giant fan of Star Trek. But at a certain point, new generations coming up need their own Star Wars. When the business gets to the point that that’s all that’s being made and there’s no room anymore for original ideas, that’s like the death of a civilization.”
Conclusion
Vince Gilligan’s “Pluribus” is not just another addition to his impressive portfolio but a bold step into uncharted territory. As the creator of two of television’s most celebrated series, Gilligan now faces both excitement and apprehension about venturing beyond the familiar Heisenberg universe. With a hefty budget and an intriguing premise, “Pluribus” is set to make waves on Apple TV+ when it premieres on November 7, 2025.
