We were on the fence when AMC announced that 'Breaking Bad' would spawn its very own 'Better Cal Saul' spinoff, but already the network is doubling down on its criminal lawyer. Not only has 'Better Call Saul' already been renewed for a second season, but the series premiere has also moved to 2015, and the first photo of Bob Odenkirk as a stylin' Saul Goodman has arrived!

Via Deadline, we've learned the somewhat surprising news that the inaugural season of the 'Breaking Bad' spinoff was to consist only of 10 episodes, and has now been moved to early 2015 to better accommodate its launch. The second season will air in 2016 with the more traditional order of 13 episodes, while AMC has also released the first behind-the-scenes photo of a visibly younger Saul, along with 'Breaking Bad' creator Vince Gilligan and producer Peter Gould. Gilligan will also direct the first episode, and co-showrun with Gould.

Says AMC of the news:

Production on Better Call Saul is underway and we could not be more proud of nor more excited about the work to date. When introducing any series, especially one with the DNA of Breaking Bad, there are countless factors to consider in making sure the show gets the launch it deserves. We have a strong history with Vince, Peter, Bob, the studio… and all share a focus on making it a true television event. No half measures

In addition to Jonathan Banks' returning role as Mike Ehrmantraut and Christopher Guest alum Michael McKean, we also know of 'Better Call Saul' that ‘The Last Exorcism’ star Patrick Fabian will play the “Kennedy-type” white-shoe law firm lawyer Burt, while Rhea Seehorn will take the role of fellow lawyer Beth, and 'Orphan Black''s Michael Mando will appear as Spanish-speaking career criminal Eddie. Much of the series remains shrouded in mystery, as Odenkirk previously suggested the spinoff could well catch up with Saul post-’Breaking Bad,’ despite its prequel nature. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul have also expressed their interest in appearing on the series, though Dean Norris appeared to reject the idea.

It's quite a bit of news to take in, and not entirely difficult to read into the recent fizzling of 'Halt and Catch Fire' as another impetus for AMC to mine its more successful series for all their worth. In either case, the photo below inspires at least a bit of confidence, but what say you? Are you on board for 'Better Call Saul' in 2015, now that it's confirmed for a second season regardless?

Better Caul Saul Season 2 Photo 2015 Premiere Breaking Bad
AMC
loading...

More From ScreenCrush