Early Career and Influences
Bob Odenkirk began his career in comedy during the 1980s when he was influenced by the burgeoning stand-up scene and the rise of alternative comedy. His early experiences shaped his approach to writing and performance.
Stand-Up Comedy and Early Writing
- Odenkirk started performing stand-up in Chicago, where he was influenced by local comedians and improvisational theatre.
- He wrote material for various comedians, including working alongside renowned figures like Robert Smigel and Chris Farley.
Through his stand-up experiences, Odenkirk honed his writing skills, learning how to create punchy, engaging material that resonated with audiences.
Television Writing Breakthroughs
Odenkirk's writing career gained significant traction in the early 1990s when he began working on several influential television shows. His work during this period solidified his reputation as a talented writer in the comedy genre.
Saturday Night Live (SNL)
- Years: 1990-1991
- Role: Writer
- Contributions: Odenkirk contributed to the iconic sketch comedy show, writing numerous sketches and helping to develop characters that became fan favorites.
His tenure at SNL allowed him to collaborate with other emerging comedic talents and gain valuable experience in television writing.
Mr. Show with Bob and David
- Years: 1995-1998
- Role: Co-creator, Writer, and Actor
- Contributions: This HBO sketch comedy series, co-created with David Cross, became a cult classic and is often credited with influencing a generation of comedians and writers.
- The show’s unique format included recurring characters and absurdist humor, showcasing Odenkirk’s ability to blend sharp wit with social commentary.
- Notable sketches include "The Audition," "The Story of Everest," and "The Return of the King," which exemplified their innovative approach to sketch comedy.
Mr. Show allowed Odenkirk to explore more complex themes and narratives, pushing the boundaries of what sketch comedy could achieve.
Expanding into Dramatic Writing
While Odenkirk is best known for his comedic writing, he successfully transitioned into more serious narratives, particularly in the realm of drama.
Breaking Bad
- Years: 2008-2013
- Role: Writer and Actor (Saul Goodman)
- Contributions: Odenkirk portrayed the morally flexible lawyer Saul Goodman, a character that became iconic in the series. His writing contributions in the show helped develop Saul's character and backstory.
The success of Breaking Bad paved the way for Odenkirk’s involvement in its spin-off series.
Better Call Saul
- Years: 2015-2022
- Role: Co-creator, Writer, and Actor
- Contributions: Odenkirk co-created and wrote for this critically acclaimed prequel to Breaking Bad, which explores the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the sleazy lawyer Saul Goodman.
- The show received numerous awards and nominations, further establishing Odenkirk as a serious writer and actor in the television landscape.
- Notable episodes written or co-written by Odenkirk include "Five-O" and "Coushatta," which delve into the complexities of morality and personal choices.
Better Call Saul is praised for its character-driven storytelling and intricate plotlines, showcasing Odenkirk’s depth as a writer.
Film and Other Projects
Beyond television, Odenkirk has ventured into film and various writing projects, demonstrating his versatility across different mediums.
Writing for Film
- Writers Guild of America: Odenkirk has been a member of the WGA, contributing to various films since the late 1990s.
- Notable Films:
- Melvin Goes to Dinner (2003): Odenkirk co-wrote and directed this independent film, which showcases his ability to blend humor with genuine human interactions.
- The Truth About Santa (2009): A Christmas-themed film that reflects Odenkirk’s knack for writing family-friendly content.
His film work often retains a comedic edge while exploring deeper themes.
Contributions to Other Shows
Odenkirk has also contributed writing to a variety of other television shows, further showcasing his range:
- Late Night with Conan O'Brien: Odenkirk wrote for this influential late-night talk show, contributing to its unique comedic style.
- The Simpsons: He penned episodes for this legendary animated show, further solidifying his status as a versatile writer.
Recent Projects and Future Endeavors
As of late 2023, Odenkirk continues to expand his writing portfolio, with several projects in the pipeline.
Upcoming Shows and Films
- Lucky Hank: A new series starring Odenkirk, which he co-created and wrote for. The show is anticipated to explore themes of academia and personal struggles.
- Film Projects: Odenkirk has hinted at potential film projects, including collaborations with other notable writers and directors.
Odenkirk's commitment to innovative storytelling remains evident in his upcoming works, proving that his writing career is far from over.
Conclusion
Bob Odenkirk's writing credits reflect a diverse and dynamic career that spans decades. From his early days in stand-up comedy to his acclaimed work on series like Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, he has proven himself as a masterful storyteller. His ability to blend humor with poignant narratives has left a lasting impact on both television and film. As he continues to take on new projects, fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate what he will create next. Odenkirk's evolution as a writer is a testament to his creativity, resilience, and commitment to the art of storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable TV shows that Bob Odenkirk has writing credits for?
Bob Odenkirk is known for his writing contributions to shows like 'Saturday Night Live', 'Mr. Show with Bob and David', and 'Breaking Bad'.
Did Bob Odenkirk write for any animated series?
Yes, Bob Odenkirk has writing credits for animated series such as 'The Simpsons' and 'The Critic'.
Has Bob Odenkirk received any awards for his writing?
Bob Odenkirk has received multiple awards, including Emmy nominations for his work on 'Saturday Night Live' and 'Breaking Bad'.
What is Mr. Show, and what was Bob Odenkirk's role in it?
Mr. Show is a sketch comedy series co-created by Bob Odenkirk and David Cross, where Odenkirk served as a writer and performer.
In what year did Bob Odenkirk begin his writing career?
Bob Odenkirk began his writing career in the early 1990s, notably with his work on 'Saturday Night Live' starting in 1990.
Is Bob Odenkirk involved in writing for 'Better Call Saul'?
Yes, Bob Odenkirk is not only the star of 'Better Call Saul' but also contributed to the writing, particularly in shaping his character, Saul Goodman.
