Rex Linn's Breakout Role In 'Better Call Saul'

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Gene Hackman

Rex Linn's Breakout Role In 'Better Call Saul'

Who is Rex Linn in Better Call Saul? Rex Linn is an American actor who portrays Kevin Wachtell, a successful and influential lawyer, in the popular television series Better Call Saul.

Kevin Wachtell is a complex and morally ambiguous character. He is a skilled and respected attorney, but he is also ruthless and ambitious. He is willing to do whatever it takes to win, even if it means breaking the law. Linn's performance brings depth and nuance to the character, making him one of the most compelling figures in the series.

Wachtell is a major player in the Albuquerque legal community, and his actions have a significant impact on the lives of the other characters in the show. He is a mentor to Jimmy McGill, the protagonist of Better Call Saul, and he plays a key role in Jimmy's transformation into the criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. Wachtell is also a formidable opponent for Mike Ehrmantraut, the former police officer turned private investigator. The rivalry between Wachtell and Mike is one of the most intense and suspenseful storylines in the series.

Rex Linn has been praised for his portrayal of Kevin Wachtell. He has been nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards for his work on Better Call Saul. Linn's performance is a master class in acting, and he has helped to make Kevin Wachtell one of the most memorable characters in the Breaking Bad universe.

Rex Linn in Better Call Saul

Rex Linn's portrayal of Kevin Wachtell in Better Call Saul is a master class in acting. Wachtell is a complex and morally ambiguous character, and Linn brings depth and nuance to the role. Here are nine key aspects of Rex Linn's performance as Kevin Wachtell:

  • Ruthless: Wachtell is willing to do whatever it takes to win, even if it means breaking the law.
  • Ambitious: Wachtell is driven by a desire for power and success.
  • Intelligent: Wachtell is a skilled and respected attorney.
  • Charming: Wachtell can be charming and charismatic when he wants to be.
  • Intimidating: Wachtell can also be intimidating and threatening when he needs to be.
  • Mentor: Wachtell is a mentor to Jimmy McGill, the protagonist of Better Call Saul.
  • Rival: Wachtell is a formidable opponent for Mike Ehrmantraut, the former police officer turned private investigator.
  • Complex: Wachtell is a complex and contradictory character. He is capable of both good and evil.
  • Memorable: Wachtell is one of the most memorable characters in the Breaking Bad universe.

Rex Linn's performance as Kevin Wachtell is a tour de force. He brings depth and nuance to a complex and morally ambiguous character. Wachtell is one of the most compelling figures in Better Call Saul, and Linn's performance is a major reason why.

Name Rex Linn
Born November 13, 1956
Birthplace Corpus Christi, Texas
Occupation Actor
Years active 1982-present
Spouse Renee Soutendijk (m. 1993-present)
Children 2

Ruthless

Kevin Wachtell is a ruthless lawyer who is willing to do whatever it takes to win. He has no qualms about breaking the law, and he is always looking for an edge over his opponents. This ruthlessness is a key component of his character, and it is one of the things that makes him so dangerous.

For example, in the episode "RICO," Wachtell uses his connections to the police to get Jimmy McGill arrested on trumped-up charges. He does this in order to intimidate Jimmy and force him to drop a case against one of Wachtell's clients. Wachtell's ruthlessness is also evident in the way he treats his employees. He is demanding and unforgiving, and he does not hesitate to fire anyone who does not meet his expectations.

Wachtell's ruthlessness is a major factor in his success as a lawyer. He is able to win cases that other lawyers would not be able to win, and he has built up a powerful law firm. However, his ruthlessness also comes at a cost. He has alienated many people, and he has made many enemies. It is unclear whether Wachtell will be able to maintain his success in the long run, but there is no doubt that he is a formidable opponent.

Ambitious

Kevin Wachtell is driven by a desire for power and success. This ambition is a key component of his character, and it is one of the things that makes him so dangerous. Wachtell is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, and he is not afraid to step on others to get ahead.

Wachtell's ambition is evident in his career as a lawyer. He has built up a powerful law firm, and he is one of the most successful lawyers in Albuquerque. Wachtell is also ambitious in his personal life. He is married to a beautiful woman, and he has two children. Wachtell lives in a large house in a wealthy neighborhood. He drives a luxury car, and he wears expensive clothes.

Wachtell's ambition is a double-edged sword. It has helped him to achieve great success, but it has also alienated many people. Wachtell is a ruthless and ambitious man, and he is not afraid to use his power to get what he wants. This makes him a dangerous enemy, and it is unclear whether he will be able to maintain his success in the long run.

Intelligent

Kevin Wachtell is a skilled and respected attorney. He has a deep understanding of the law, and he is able to use his knowledge to his advantage. Wachtell is also a persuasive negotiator, and he is able to get his clients the best possible outcomes. His intelligence is a key component of his success as a lawyer, and it is one of the things that makes him so dangerous.

  • Legal Knowledge: Wachtell has a deep understanding of the law. He is able to use his knowledge to find loopholes and to his advantage. For example, in the episode "RICO," Wachtell uses his knowledge of the law to get Jimmy McGill arrested on trumped-up charges.
  • Persuasive Negotiation: Wachtell is a persuasive negotiator. He is able to get his clients the best possible outcomes. For example, in the episode "Chicanery," Wachtell is able to negotiate a favorable settlement for his client, even though the client was facing serious charges.
  • Strategic Thinking: Wachtell is a strategic thinker. He is able to see the big picture, and he is able to develop long-term strategies. For example, in the episode "Smoke," Wachtell is able to develop a strategy to take down Howard Hamlin, his rival at Hamlin, Hamlin & McGill.
  • Ruthless Ambition: Wachtell's intelligence is also fueled by his ruthless ambition. He is willing to do whatever it takes to win, even if it means breaking the law. For example, in the episode "RICO," Wachtell uses his connections to the police to get Jimmy McGill arrested on trumped-up charges.

Wachtell's intelligence is a major factor in his success as a lawyer. He is able to win cases that other lawyers would not be able to win, and he has built up a powerful law firm. However, his intelligence also comes at a cost. He has alienated many people, and he has made many enemies. It is unclear whether Wachtell will be able to maintain his success in the long run, but there is no doubt that he is a formidable opponent.

Charming

Kevin Wachtell is a complex character. He is ruthless, ambitious, and intelligent. However, he can also be charming and charismatic when he wants to be. This ability to switch between different personas is one of the things that makes Wachtell so dangerous.

  • Social Facade: Wachtell uses his charm to create a social facade. He is able to put people at ease and gain their trust. This allows him to get close to people and learn their secrets. For example, in the episode "RICO," Wachtell uses his charm to get close to Jimmy McGill and learn about his plans.
  • Manipulation: Wachtell uses his charm to manipulate people. He is able to get people to do what he wants without them even realizing it. For example, in the episode "Chicanery," Wachtell uses his charm to manipulate Howard Hamlin into making a mistake that costs Hamlin his job.
  • Deception: Wachtell uses his charm to deceive people. He is able to lie and cheat without batting an eye. For example, in the episode "Smoke," Wachtell lies to Jimmy McGill about his involvement in Howard Hamlin's death.
  • Seduction: Wachtell uses his charm to seduce people. He is able to attract people to him and get them to do what he wants. For example, in the episode "Plan and Execution," Wachtell seduces Kim Wexler in order to get her to help him with his plans.

Wachtell's charm is a major factor in his success as a lawyer. He is able to win cases that other lawyers would not be able to win, and he has built up a powerful law firm. However, his charm also comes at a cost. He has alienated many people, and he has made many enemies. It is unclear whether Wachtell will be able to maintain his success in the long run, but there is no doubt that he is a formidable opponent.

Intimidating

Kevin Wachtell is a complex character who can be both charming and intimidating. He uses his intimidation to control and manipulate others, making him a formidable opponent. This aspect of his personality is crucial to his success as a lawyer and plays a significant role in the overall narrative of "Better Call Saul."

  • Physical Presence: Wachtell is a large and imposing man, which can be intimidating in itself. He also uses his body language to convey a sense of power and dominance. For example, he often stands tall and makes direct eye contact with people, which can make them feel uncomfortable or threatened.
  • Verbal Communication: Wachtell is a skilled communicator who knows how to use his words to intimidate others. He often speaks in a low, menacing voice, and he uses sarcasm and wit to belittle his opponents. For example, in the episode "RICO," Wachtell tells Jimmy McGill, "You're a two-bit con man, and I'm going to make sure you end up in prison." This kind of language is designed to intimidate and demoralize Jimmy.
  • Reputation: Wachtell has a reputation for being a ruthless and dangerous lawyer. This reputation precedes him, and it can intimidate people even before they meet him. For example, in the episode "Chicanery," Howard Hamlin tells Jimmy that he's "afraid" of Wachtell. Howard knows that Wachtell is capable of anything, and he doesn't want to get on his bad side.
  • Connections: Wachtell has connections to powerful people, including judges and politicians. This gives him a sense of immunity and makes him even more intimidating. For example, in the episode "Smoke," Wachtell uses his connections to get Jimmy arrested on trumped-up charges. This shows that Wachtell is not afraid to use his power to intimidate and harm his enemies.

Wachtell's intimidation is a major factor in his success as a lawyer. He is able to use it to control and manipulate others, and he is not afraid to use his power to harm his enemies. This makes him a formidable opponent, and it is one of the things that makes "Better Call Saul" such a compelling show.

Mentor

Kevin Wachtell is a complex and enigmatic character in "Better Call Saul." He is a successful and respected lawyer, but he is also ruthless and ambitious. Wachtell takes Jimmy McGill under his wing and becomes his mentor. This relationship is a key component of Jimmy's transformation into Saul Goodman, the criminal lawyer.

Wachtell teaches Jimmy the tricks of the trade, including how to manipulate the legal system and how to get away with crimes. He also encourages Jimmy to embrace his dark side and to use his intelligence for evil. Wachtell's influence on Jimmy is profound, and it ultimately leads Jimmy down a path of self-destruction.

The relationship between Wachtell and Jimmy is a fascinating one. It is a study in power and corruption, and it shows how even the most well-intentioned people can be led astray. Wachtell is a complex character, and he is one of the most compelling figures in "Better Call Saul."

Rival

The rivalry between Wachtell and Mike is one of the most intense and suspenseful storylines in "Better Call Saul." Wachtell is a ruthless and ambitious lawyer, while Mike is a skilled and experienced investigator. Both men are determined to win, and they are not afraid to use dirty tactics to get what they want.

  • Legal Maneuvering

    Wachtell uses his knowledge of the law to his advantage, often finding loopholes and technicalities to exploit. Mike, on the other hand, relies on his street smarts and investigative skills to uncover the truth. Their contrasting approaches make their rivalry all the more compelling.

  • Personal Connections

    Wachtell has powerful connections in the legal and political world, which he uses to intimidate his opponents. Mike, on the other hand, has a network of informants and contacts in the criminal underworld. These personal connections give both men an edge in their rivalry.

  • Moral Ambiguity

    Both Wachtell and Mike are morally ambiguous characters. Wachtell is willing to break the law to win, while Mike is willing to use violence to protect his loved ones. This moral ambiguity makes their rivalry even more complex and unpredictable.

  • Clash of Wills

    At the heart of the rivalry between Wachtell and Mike is a clash of wills. Both men are strong-willed and determined to win. This clash of wills makes their rivalry one of the most intense and suspenseful in the series.

The rivalry between Wachtell and Mike is a key component of "Better Call Saul." It is a study in power, corruption, and the moral ambiguity of the legal system. Wachtell and Mike are both formidable opponents, and their rivalry is one of the most compelling aspects of the show.

Complex

Kevin Wachtell is a complex and contradictory character in "Better Call Saul." He is a successful and respected lawyer, but he is also ruthless and ambitious. He is capable of both good and evil, and this makes him one of the most fascinating characters in the show.

  • Moral Complexity

    Wachtell is a morally complex character. He is willing to break the law to win, but he also has a sense of justice. For example, in the episode "RICO," Wachtell helps Jimmy McGill get a mistrial in a case where Jimmy was clearly guilty. However, Wachtell also uses his power to intimidate and harm his enemies. For example, in the episode "Smoke," Wachtell uses his connections to get Jimmy arrested on trumped-up charges.

  • Personal Relationships

    Wachtell's personal relationships are also complex. He is married and has two children, but he is also having an affair with Kim Wexler. Wachtell loves his family, but he is also willing to put his career ahead of them. For example, in the episode "Chicanery," Wachtell chooses to represent Howard Hamlin in a case against Jimmy, even though he knows that Hamlin is guilty. This decision ultimately leads to the destruction of Hamlin's career and marriage.

  • Redemption

    Wachtell is a character who is capable of redemption. He has shown remorse for his past actions, and he is trying to make amends. For example, in the episode "Bagman," Wachtell helps Jimmy and Kim escape from the desert after they are stranded. This act of kindness shows that Wachtell is not a completely evil person.

  • Tragedy

    Wachtell's story is ultimately a tragedy. He is a man who is torn between his good and evil impulses. He is capable of great kindness, but he is also capable of great cruelty. Wachtell's tragic flaw is his ambition. He is so driven to succeed that he is willing to sacrifice everything else in his life.

Kevin Wachtell is a complex and contradictory character. He is capable of both good and evil, and this makes him one of the most fascinating characters in "Better Call Saul."

Memorable

The character of Kevin Wachtell, portrayed by Rex Linn in Better Call Saul, stands out as one of the most memorable in the Breaking Bad universe due to his complexity, charisma, and the significant role he plays in the narrative. Wachtell's presence adds depth and intrigue to the prequel series, further enriching the overall storytelling.

Wachtell's complexity stems from his contradictory nature. He is a skilled and respected lawyer, yet he operates in morally ambiguous ways. This duality makes him both fascinating and unpredictable, keeping viewers engaged as they witness his actions and motivations. The character's charm and charisma further contribute to his memorability. Rex Linn's portrayal exudes confidence and authority, making Wachtell a captivating figure on screen.

Beyond his compelling personality, Wachtell's significance lies in his connections to other central characters, particularly Jimmy McGill and Mike Ehrmantraut. As Jimmy's mentor, Wachtell influences his transformation into Saul Goodman, shaping the trajectory of the protagonist's journey. Additionally, Wachtell's rivalry with Mike creates intense and suspenseful moments, adding an extra layer of conflict to the narrative.

The character of Kevin Wachtell not only enhances the richness of Better Call Saul but also serves as a testament to Rex Linn's exceptional acting skills. Linn brings depth and nuance to the role, making Wachtell a truly unforgettable character in the Breaking Bad universe.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rex Linn's Role in Better Call Saul

Rex Linn's portrayal of Kevin Wachtell in Better Call Saul has garnered substantial attention. To provide clarity, we address some commonly asked questions about his character and performance.

Question 1: What is the significance of Kevin Wachtell's character in Better Call Saul?


Kevin Wachtell is a prominent attorney and a complex character in Better Call Saul. He serves as a mentor to Jimmy McGill, influencing his transformation into Saul Goodman. Wachtell's presence adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the complexities of the legal profession and the moral ambiguities it presents.

Question 2: How does Rex Linn's performance contribute to the character of Kevin Wachtell?


Rex Linn's exceptional acting skills bring depth and nuance to the character of Kevin Wachtell. His portrayal captures the character's charisma, intelligence, and moral complexities. Linn's performance makes Wachtell a captivating and memorable figure, adding to the overall richness of the series.

Question 3: What are some key characteristics of Kevin Wachtell's personality?


Kevin Wachtell is portrayed as a ruthless and ambitious lawyer, driven by his desire for success. Despite his professional accomplishments, he often operates in morally questionable ways. Wachtell's charm and charisma contrast with his manipulative and intimidating nature, making him a complex and unpredictable character.

Question 4: How does Kevin Wachtell's relationship with Jimmy McGill evolve throughout the series?


Kevin Wachtell initially takes Jimmy McGill under his wing as a mentor. However, as Jimmy's transformation into Saul Goodman progresses, their relationship becomes strained. Wachtell's influence contributes to Jimmy's embrace of unethical practices, leading to a complex and tense dynamic between the two characters.

Question 5: What is the significance of the rivalry between Kevin Wachtell and Mike Ehrmantraut?


The rivalry between Kevin Wachtell and Mike Ehrmantraut adds an extra layer of conflict to the narrative. Wachtell's power and connections clash with Mike's skills and determination. Their confrontations showcase the different approaches to achieving their goals, highlighting the moral complexities within the show's universe.

Question 6: How does Kevin Wachtell's character contribute to the overall themes of Better Call Saul?


Kevin Wachtell's character serves as a reflection of the moral ambiguities and power struggles prevalent in the legal profession. His actions and choices highlight the complexities of human nature and the consequences of pursuing success at any cost. Wachtell's presence reinforces the show's exploration of themes such as corruption, redemption, and the search for identity.

In conclusion, Rex Linn's portrayal of Kevin Wachtell in Better Call Saul adds depth and intrigue to the series. Wachtell's complex characterization, driven by Linn's exceptional performance, contributes to the show's exploration of moral dilemmas, power dynamics, and the human condition.

Transition to the next article section:Explore the Evolution of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman

Conclusion

Rex Linn's embodiment of Kevin Wachtell in Better Call Saul has left an indelible mark on the series and the Breaking Bad universe. Through his nuanced portrayal, Linn brought to life a character of depth, complexity, and moral ambiguity. Wachtell's journey as a ruthless lawyer, Jimmy McGill's mentor, and Mike Ehrmantraut's rival added layers of intrigue and conflict to the narrative.

Linn's performance captured Wachtell's charm, intelligence, and intimidating presence. He deftly navigated the character's contradictions, showcasing his capacity for both good and evil. Wachtell's influence on Jimmy McGill's transformation into Saul Goodman underscores the power dynamics and moral dilemmas at the heart of the show.

The character of Kevin Wachtell serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the consequences of ambition. Rex Linn's exceptional performance ensures that Wachtell remains an unforgettable figure in the annals of television, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and solidifying his place as one of the most memorable characters in the Breaking Bad universe.

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