Hey Better Call Saul fans! Let's dive deep into the complicated relationship between Howard Hamlin and Cheryl, two characters who added so much depth to the show. We're going to explore their individual arcs, their interactions, and ultimately, how their story intertwined with the larger narrative of Jimmy McGill's transformation into Saul Goodman. Buckle up, because this is going to be a wild ride!

Howard Hamlin: More Than Meets the Eye

Howard Hamlin, played brilliantly by Patrick Fabian, initially comes across as the polished, almost arrogant head of Hamlin, Hamlin & McGill (HHM). He's got the expensive suits, the perfect hair, and an air of effortless success. But as the series progresses, we see layers of vulnerability and insecurity beneath that facade. Howard's character development is one of the most compelling aspects of Better Call Saul*. He's not just the antagonist standing in Jimmy's way; he's a complex individual grappling with his own demons.

The Pressure Cooker of HHM

Running a prestigious law firm like HHM is no walk in the park. Howard constantly faces pressure to maintain the firm's reputation, manage demanding clients, and navigate the internal politics. The weight of responsibility is clearly taking a toll on him, leading to sleepless nights and a reliance on questionable coping mechanisms. We see him attending therapy sessions, trying to address his inner turmoil, but the stress of his position often overwhelms him. This internal struggle humanizes Howard, making him more relatable despite his privileged background.

Howard's Complicated Relationship with Chuck

Howard's relationship with Chuck McGill, Jimmy's brother and a founding partner of HHM, is particularly complex. He deeply respects Chuck's legal brilliance but also resents his condescending attitude and the way he constantly undermines Jimmy. Howard is caught in the middle of their sibling rivalry, trying to appease both brothers while protecting the firm's interests. After Chuck's death, Howard feels a profound sense of guilt and responsibility. He believes he could have done more to help Chuck, and this guilt haunts him throughout the later seasons. This burden further contributes to his mental and emotional struggles, pushing him closer to the edge.

Howard's Downfall

The ultimate takedown of Howard Hamlin is arguably one of the most shocking and heartbreaking storylines in the entire Breaking Bad universe. Jimmy and Kim, fueled by their resentment towards Howard and their desire for a thrill, concoct an elaborate scheme to ruin his reputation and force a settlement in the Sandpiper case. Their plan is meticulously executed, targeting Howard's insecurities and exploiting his vulnerabilities. They spread rumors of his drug use, tamper with his professional appearances, and generally make his life a living hell. The culmination of their scheme is devastating, leading to Howard's professional and personal ruin. This cruel manipulation highlights the dark side of Jimmy and Kim's characters and the destructive consequences of their actions. The tragic irony is that Howard, despite his flaws, was ultimately a decent man who didn't deserve the fate he suffered. The scheme against Howard shows the true depths of Jimmy and Kim's manipulative abilities.

Cheryl Hamlin: A Glimpse into Howard's Personal Life

Cheryl Hamlin, Howard's wife, offers a brief but crucial glimpse into his personal life. While she doesn't have a huge amount of screen time, her presence reveals a softer, more vulnerable side of Howard. Their relationship seems strained, possibly due to Howard's workaholic tendencies and the emotional toll of running HHM. We see Cheryl trying to connect with Howard, but he often seems distant and preoccupied. Her confusion and heartbreak over Howard's erratic behavior in the lead-up to his downfall are palpable. Cheryl's reactions provide a stark contrast to the cutthroat world of law and crime depicted in the show.

A Supportive But Distant Partner

Cheryl appears to be a supportive wife, attending social events with Howard and attempting to engage in meaningful conversations. However, there's a sense of distance between them, as if Howard is holding back or unable to fully share his burdens. She seems aware of his struggles but perhaps doesn't fully understand the extent of his inner turmoil. This disconnect adds to the sense of isolation that Howard experiences, contributing to his vulnerability to Jimmy and Kim's schemes.

The Aftermath of Howard's Death

Cheryl's reaction to Howard's death is heartbreaking. She is understandably devastated and seeks answers about his behavior in the weeks leading up to his demise. She confronts Jimmy and Kim, sensing that they are somehow involved, but they skillfully deflect her suspicions with their lies and manipulation. Cheryl's grief and determination to uncover the truth highlight the human cost of Jimmy and Kim's actions. She represents the innocent victims caught in the crossfire of their schemes, reminding us of the real-world consequences of their choices. Her presence serves as a moral compass, underscoring the ethical boundaries that Jimmy and Kim have crossed.

The Intertwining of Fates: Howard, Cheryl, Jimmy, and Kim

The tragedy of Howard and Cheryl is inextricably linked to the actions of Jimmy and Kim. Their relentless pursuit of their own desires leads to the destruction of innocent lives, highlighting the moral decay at the heart of Better Call Saul. The show masterfully demonstrates how seemingly small choices can have devastating consequences, impacting not only the individuals involved but also their families and loved ones.

The Ripple Effect of Jimmy and Kim's Actions

Jimmy and Kim's scheme against Howard is not just a prank gone wrong; it's a deliberate act of destruction that sets in motion a chain of events with far-reaching consequences. Howard's death is a direct result of their actions, and Cheryl is left to grapple with the grief and confusion of losing her husband. The ripple effect of their choices extends beyond Howard and Cheryl, impacting the entire legal community and casting a shadow over HHM. This underscores the interconnectedness of the characters' lives and the devastating impact of their decisions.

The Moral Ambiguity of Better Call Saul

One of the most compelling aspects of Better Call Saul is its exploration of moral ambiguity. The characters are not simply good or evil; they are complex individuals with flaws and virtues. Jimmy and Kim, despite their moments of charm and charisma, are capable of great cruelty and manipulation. Howard, despite his initial arrogance, is ultimately a decent man who deserves our sympathy. The show challenges us to question our own moral compass and to consider the consequences of our actions. The intricate character relationships demonstrate the complexities of human nature.

The Lasting Impact of Howard and Cheryl's Story

The story of Howard and Cheryl serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the destructive power of resentment. It reminds us that even seemingly small acts of malice can have devastating consequences, and that our choices have a profound impact on the lives of others. Their story is a tragic reminder of the human cost of Jimmy McGill's transformation into Saul Goodman, and it adds a layer of depth and complexity to the Better Call Saul narrative. Ultimately, their fate serves as a powerful indictment of Jimmy and Kim's moral failings and the tragic consequences of their choices.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – a deep dive into the lives of Howard and Cheryl Hamlin and their pivotal role in the Better Call Saul universe. Their story is a tragic reminder of the human cost of ambition and the devastating consequences of unchecked desires. What are your thoughts on Howard and Cheryl? Let me know in the comments below! The depth and complexity of these characters showcase the brilliance of the writing and acting in Better Call Saul.