Vince Gilligan Urges the TV Industry to Focus on Good Guys
Vince Gilligan, the visionary creator behind one of television’s most memorable antiheroes, Walter White from “Breaking Bad,” is sounding the alarm about the dominance of villains and antagonists in modern media. His recent acceptance speech at the Writers Guild Award’s Writers Guild of America (WGA) Dinner has sparked a debate on the role of storytelling in shaping societal values.
The Impact of Antiheroes
Walter White, masterfully portrayed by Bryan Cranston, was a chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin, a complex character that captivated audiences around the world. While Gilligan acknowledged the brilliance of Walter White, he emphasized that the character was created as a cautionary figure, not an idol. With real-life figures who exhibit questionable morals and self-serving behavior becoming more prevalent, Gilligan believes it is imperative to reassert values of heroism and goodness through storytelling.
“Walter White is one of the all time great bad guys,” Gilligan said during his acceptance speech. “But all things being equal, I think we’d rather be celebrated for creating someone a bit more inspiring.”
Aspirational Goodness in the Modern Age
Speaking at the Writers Guild Award ceremony, Gilligan received the Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement. He seized the moment to advocate for a return to depicting admirable characters in mass media. He suggested that in a world dominated by real-life figures whose actions can be morally dubious, TV shows should prioritize showcasing individuals who embody virtues of kindness, tolerance, and sacrifice.
The Influence of Popular Culture
Gilligan is concerned that highly relatable and often celebrated fictional ‘bad guys,’ such as Michael Corleone, Hannibal Lecter, and Darth Vader, can influence viewers’ perceptions of what is admirable. These characters, while compelling, risk becoming aspirational figures rather than serving as cautionary tales. With the increasing divide in society, Gilligan believes a shift towards depicting more heroic characters could have a positive impact.
The Power of Storytelling
As a respected writer in Hollywood, Gilligan acknowledged his influence and that of other storytellers. He stressed the importance of using their craft to reflect values that society should aspire to. After years of creating morally complex characters, Gilligan believes that now more than ever, there is a need for more straightforward heroes—individuals who exemplify traditional virtues.
Upcoming Projects
Interestingly, Gilligan’s upcoming Apple TV+ series, shot in Albuquerque, features a lead character (played by Rhea Seehorn) who embodies the kind of ‘good guy’ Gilligan advocates for. Given Seehorn’s reputation as a genuine, kind individual, the choice seems fitting. This project is part of a broader trend of creators exploring the narrative potential of more virtuous protagonists.
Personal Reflections and Inspirations
Gilligan candidly shared his thoughts on inspiration and personal experiences. His decision to use his address to advocate for ‘good guys’ in storytelling was driven by witnessing the state of the country and how quickly it was progressing. He admitted to being swayed by family members not to inject politics into personal accolades, yet felt compelled to speak out.
Legacy and Purpose
Reflecting on his career and the creation of Walter White, Gilligan acknowledged the enduring impact of his work. However, he sees his upcoming projects as opportunities to craft more inspiring characters. His aspirational message aligns with his personal growth and greater appreciation for values that promote unity and positivity.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Vince Gilligan’s speech at the Writers Guild Dinner highlights the significant role that popular media can play in shaping societal values. By calling for more stories that celebrate goodness and virtuous behavior, Gilligan encourages a movement towards creative content that can inspire personal and collective improvement.
His message resonates not only with the TV industry but also with viewers who value stories that reflect positive human traits. As we navigate the complexities of modern society, stories depicting admirable characters may provide much-needed inspiration and guidance.
As Gilligan continues to shape storytelling with his upcoming projects, he invites us all to consider the kind of world we wish to see and the role that good storytelling can play in creating it.
We invite you to share your thoughts on Gilligan’s perspective and his call for more aspirational heroes in television. Leave a comment below, subscribe to our newsletter for more insightful content, or share this article on social media to continue the conversation.