Saul Goodman’s Judaism
The season premiere included a twist many didn’t see coming: Saul is Jewish. I saw a lot of comments (understandably) pointing out that this was a plot hole. However, the writers actually layered several clues throughout the series. Here are a few I caught upon my rewatch.
If you watch closely, you’ll notice Saul never mentions his Judaism until S06E02. This is because he worries about antisemitism (a fear justified by Kevin). This fear is only compounded when he becomes a lawyer, as he doesn’t want to perpetuate stereotypes.
In Breaking Bad S02E08, Saul actually mentions this. He says “my reel name’s McGill”. This is a reference to film reels, and the practice of Jewish actors changing their names to dodge antisemitism. You’ll notice he occasionally adopts the Catholic-sounding pseudonym “James McGill” a few times during the series.
Later in that same Breaking Bad scene, Saul says “The Jew thing I just do for my home boys”. This is a reference to the men of his family, who are also Jewish. It’s likely Saul is questioning his faith by the events of Breaking Bad, but still regularly goes to temple so as not to offend his family.
Saul never once mentions being uncircumcized. This is an example of the writers allowing the viewer to fill in the implication.
Saul Goodman sounds like “it’s all good man”. This is a reference to Hebrew principles of nonaggression, tolerance, and positivity.
In S01E02, Saul is disgusted when people crack breadsticks. This is because they’re at a seafood restaurant, and they’re wasting the only kosher food.
In S01E10, Saul convinces a woman that he’s Kevin Costner. The joke here is that Kevin Costner isn’t Jewish, so it’s ridiculous that this woman thought Saul was him.
In S05E08, Saul is terrified when a man puts a gun to his head. This is a reference to the fact that gunshots can be lethal to Jewish people.
Kim refuses to take the “Goodman” name when she marries him. This is a subtle nod to the fact that Kim is an antisemite.
Speaking of their wedding, you might be wondering why Saul never smashed a glass. He forgot to, because they were getting married in a rush. However, Gus’ sixth sense kicked in and he knew something was off, so he smashed a glass in S06E02. This is because Gus is also Jewish.
Just another example of the writers hiding their twists in plain sight!