The hit AMC series Better Call Saul, a prequel to Breaking Bad, is known for its compelling storyline and realistic portrayal of the legal world. But there's a heartfelt story behind the scenes that may have moved many fans. A special tribute to one of the consultants helped to bring this compelling drama to life, in a way fans will forever appreciate.
Julia Clark Downs: A Real-Life Lawyer
The dedication to accuracy and realism in Better Call Saul was highlighted when a moving tribute was featured in season 6, episode 9, this was to pay respect for Julia Clark Downs, a real-life Albuquerque lawyer, who worked on the show to advise writers about accurate portrayal of lawyers and the legal system of New Mexico. It may have seemed subtle but Julia Clark Downs' involvement contributed to the authenticity and depth that helped elevate the show beyond a standard crime drama.
Clark Downs practiced law in a multitude of locations including the District Attorney's office! That was made very clear, allowing her to add details and insight into what actually made these court cases really seem real and true! In Better Call Saul, what stands out for those who had the chance to really study this amazing legal drama series was how intricate and powerful the moments truly were. Those involved were making a show about those at the center of this world of criminals. There really was the dedication from all aspects! But who knew that one real lawyer had so much involvement!
Clark Downs' Impact on Better Call Saul
While many may not know, Clark Downs played a role in Better Call Saul's success that goes way beyond the simple roles or casting, it was an impact to what actually helped to elevate the show to one of the greatest legal dramas to air in history!
In this Better Call Saul series. What makes these moments shine, are these powerful legal battles and arguments! That really make viewers question what could come next, keeping people entertained. You may find the legal details incredible but you never see a lot of the work done behind-the-scenes to really add these nuances! Julia Clark Downs made a deep mark on how authentically these parts were rendered, giving an experience so few other crime series get to fully offer!
The Tragedy
Sadly, Julia Clark Downs was involved in a car accident back in 2021. Her passing really moved those at AMC and that's why there was this unique, meaningful, touching tribute that fans loved!
Accuracy Consultants
Having a legal consultant may be fairly common but this kind of depth doesn't happen all the time! A truly compelling character that really works requires lots of detailed background knowledge. In Better Call Saul, what audiences never see, are all the amazing people who work behind the camera to get these incredible experiences! Donna Nelson worked on Breaking Bad. Her position was that of a science consultant, and Bryan Cranston even described just how many were actually brought in during production! In Breaking Bad they taught these talented stars just what it actually took to get the most immersive scenes by showing them exactly what it's like to actually make meth! The use of accuracy consultants may appear somewhat small. However it was the true dedication for getting things just right. These real experts really transformed Breaking Bad into something people remember even today!
Dedications in Television
Paying tribute through dedications and memorials is really a great gesture. Showing appreciation. To remember all the individuals involved is really meaningful! When working with those who are creating a show and want things to come to life for audiences, the behind-the-scenes details bring even more power! But not only for shows themselves, dedications can extend to all kinds of moments!
- Sometimes it's just remembering someone that worked on the set like in This Is Us which dedicated an episode to Alex Hanan, someone close to Dan Fogelman.
- In Breaking Bad, the show gave its recognition to Kevin Cordasco.
- And then there was a large-scale tribute in Friends, which showed solidarity for everyone who was impacted by 9/11, and really took the moment to remember those impacted.
It looks like Better Call Saul takes the viewers to another level and gives something even more emotional, sharing the amazing Julia Clark Downs legacy in its show, giving an insight as to just why this show came out so incredible and is why this specific show is one that audiences truly value, celebrating her contribution as they celebrate the whole series itself.
