Bob Odenkirk’s Best Roles

Bob Odenkirk began his career in the world of comedy, making a name for himself as a writer for shows like ‘Saturday Night Live’ and co-creating the sketch comedy series ‘Mr. Show with Bob and David’. His early work established him as a sharp and innovative comedic voice, known for his clever writing and willingness to push boundaries. Many of his initial roles were in comedies, where he often played quirky or slightly absurd characters that perfectly matched his comedic timing and sensibilities. This foundation in comedy writing and performance honed his skills and made him a respected figure in the comedy scene long before he became a household name.

Over the years, Odenkirk has masterfully transitioned into more dramatic and complex roles, surprising audiences and critics alike with his incredible range. His ability to portray deeply flawed and multifaceted characters has earned him widespread acclaim, proving he is much more than just a comedian. This shift has allowed him to explore the depths of human emotion, tackling everything from heartfelt family dramas to intense action thrillers. His journey from a comedy writer to a celebrated dramatic actor showcases his remarkable versatility and dedication to his craft.

‘Seinfeld’ (1996)

Bob Odenkirk appeared in a memorable guest role as Ben, a medical student who is dating Elaine Benes. His character is on the verge of becoming a doctor but has yet to pass his licensing exam, a point of contention and humor in their relationship. Elaine tries to help him study, but his struggles with the material and his somewhat lackadaisical attitude create comedic tension.

The role, though brief, allowed Odenkirk to showcase his comedic abilities within the framework of one of the most popular sitcoms of all time. His interaction with Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s character highlighted his knack for playing slightly awkward yet relatable characters. This appearance came during a period when he was heavily involved in sketch comedy and writing, giving a mainstream audience a glimpse of the talent that was already well-known in comedy circles.

‘The Larry Sanders Show’ (1993–1998)

In the critically acclaimed series ‘The Larry Sanders Show’, Bob Odenkirk played the recurring role of Stevie Grant, the slick and opportunistic agent for the titular talk show host, Larry Sanders. His character was known for his ambitious nature and his often-questionable professional advice, perfectly embodying the stereotypical Hollywood agent. Stevie was always looking for the next big deal for Larry, even if it wasn’t always in his client’s best interest.

Odenkirk’s performance as Stevie Grant was a perfect fit for the show’s cynical and satirical take on the entertainment industry. He brought a comedic yet believable sliminess to the character, making him a memorable part of the show’s supporting cast. This role helped to further establish his acting credentials outside of his sketch comedy work and demonstrated his ability to excel in a sharp, character-driven series.

‘Mr. Show with Bob and David’ (1995–1998)

This sketch comedy series was co-created by Bob Odenkirk and David Cross, and it became a cult classic for its unconventional and intelligent humor. The show featured a unique format where sketches flowed into one another without a traditional break, creating a continuous and immersive comedic experience. Odenkirk not only starred in the majority of the sketches but also served as a writer and producer, shaping the show’s distinctive voice.

‘Mr. Show’ was highly influential and is often cited as a touchstone for alternative comedy in the 1990s. It was known for its satirical take on politics, pop culture, and social issues, all delivered with a surreal and often absurd twist. The series launched the careers of many comedians and writers and solidified Odenkirk’s reputation as a brilliant and forward-thinking comedy creator.

‘How I Met Your Mother’ (2008–2012)

Bob Odenkirk had a recurring role as Arthur Hobbs, a demanding and intimidating boss at the law firm where Marshall Eriksen works. His character was known for his aggressive management style and for being notoriously difficult to please. Arthur Hobbs, often called “Artillery Arthur,” put Marshall through numerous challenges and high-pressure situations throughout his time at Goliath National Bank.

Despite his character’s tough exterior, Odenkirk infused the role with his signature comedic timing, making Arthur a memorable and often hilarious antagonist for Marshall. His performance added a layer of workplace comedy to the series, and his interactions with Jason Segel’s character provided many funny moments. The role showcased Odenkirk’s ability to play an authority figure with a comedic and slightly unhinged edge.

‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’ (2021)

In a standout sketch from this popular comedy series, Bob Odenkirk plays a lonely man in a diner who offers a stranger, played by Tim Robinson, a glimpse into his supposedly perfect life. His character tells a story about how he has a beautiful wife and owns doubles of classic cars, all while maintaining a strangely sincere and slightly pathetic demeanor. The sketch builds on the show’s signature style of awkward and escalating absurdity.

Odenkirk’s performance is a masterclass in understated comedy, as he delivers increasingly unbelievable lines with complete earnestness. The character he portrays is both pitiable and hilarious, drawing the viewer in with a story that becomes more outlandish with each detail. His guest appearance was highly praised and is often cited as one of the best sketches in the series, fitting perfectly with the show’s unique comedic tone.

‘Nebraska’ (2013)

In this black-and-white road trip drama, Bob Odenkirk plays Ross Grant, one of the sons of the main character, Woody Grant. Woody, an elderly man, is convinced he has won a million-dollar sweepstakes prize and is determined to travel to Nebraska to claim it. Ross is more pragmatic and skeptical than his brother David, who agrees to take their father on the journey. Ross represents the more settled and perhaps cynical view of their father’s seemingly futile quest.

Odenkirk’s role is that of a local television news anchor, a detail that adds to his character’s persona of being the more successful and grounded of the two brothers. He provides a contrast to the dreamer in his father and the enabler in his brother. His performance adds a layer of family dynamic realism to the film, portraying the frustrations and affections that define their relationships.

‘The Post’ (2017)

In this historical drama about the publishing of the Pentagon Papers, Bob Odenkirk portrays Ben Bagdikian, a key editor at The Washington Post. His character is instrumental in tracking down the source of the classified documents that exposed government secrets about the Vietnam War. Bagdikian’s journalistic tenacity and determination are central to the newspaper’s ability to get the story.

Odenkirk’s performance captures the real-life journalist’s relentless pursuit of the truth, even in the face of immense pressure from the government. He plays a crucial role in the film’s narrative, showcasing the hard-nosed and often unglamorous work of investigative reporting. The role was a significant dramatic turn for Odenkirk, proving his ability to hold his own in a prestigious ensemble cast directed by Steven Spielberg.

‘Little Women’ (2019)

Bob Odenkirk has a small but impactful role as Mr. March, the patriarch of the March family. For much of the story, his character is away serving as a chaplain in the Civil War, but his presence is felt through the letters he sends home to his wife and four daughters. His eventual return is a deeply emotional and pivotal moment in the film.

Although his screen time is limited, Odenkirk brings a sense of warmth and gentle authority to the character. His portrayal of a loving father and husband provides an emotional anchor for the family, and his reunion with them is one of the film’s most heartwarming scenes. The role demonstrated his ability to convey deep emotion and sincerity in a more classical and understated dramatic setting.

‘Nobody’ (2021)

In this action thriller, Bob Odenkirk takes on the lead role of Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary suburban dad who lives a mundane life. When his family’s home is burglarized, his suppressed past as a highly skilled government assassin, or “auditor,” comes roaring back to the surface. The incident ignites a long-dormant rage, setting him on a violent path against a dangerous drug lord.

Odenkirk underwent extensive physical training for the role, performing many of his own stunts and fight sequences. The film was a surprising and successful venture into the action genre for him, showcasing a completely different side of his acting abilities. His portrayal of a quiet man with a hidden, violent past was widely praised by critics and audiences, establishing him as a credible action star.

‘Undone’ (2019–2022)

In this visually unique animated series, Bob Odenkirk voices the character of Jacob Winograd, the deceased father of the protagonist, Alma. After a near-fatal car accident, Alma begins to see and communicate with her late father, who encourages her to use her newfound ability to manipulate time to investigate the circumstances of his death. Jacob serves as her guide through her surreal and often confusing journey.

The series uses rotoscoping, an animation technique where animators trace over live-action footage, which gives it a distinct and dreamlike quality. Odenkirk’s voice performance brings depth and complexity to Jacob, a character who is both a loving father and a mysterious figure with a hidden past. His work is crucial to the show’s exploration of themes like family trauma, mental health, and the nature of reality.

‘The Bear’ (2023)

Bob Odenkirk makes a powerful guest appearance in a flashback episode as “Uncle” Lee Lane, a figure in the Berzatto family’s tumultuous life. The episode takes place during a chaotic and emotionally charged Christmas dinner, where long-simmering family tensions erupt. Lee’s presence adds to the volatile mix, as he clashes with other family members, particularly Michael Berzatto.

His performance is intense and captivating, contributing significantly to one of the most critically acclaimed episodes of the series. Odenkirk portrays Lee with a mix of resentment and authority, creating a character who is both unlikable and deeply human. This guest role allowed him to showcase his dramatic chops in a raw and emotionally complex ensemble setting.

‘Fargo’ (2014)

In the first season of this anthology crime series, Bob Odenkirk played Bill Oswalt, the well-meaning but ultimately ineffective police chief of Bemidji, Minnesota. When a series of violent crimes rocks his small town, Chief Oswalt struggles to comprehend the darkness that has emerged. He is often overshadowed by the more competent and determined Deputy Molly Solverson.

Odenkirk’s character provides a sense of normalcy and groundedness in a world that is quickly spiraling into chaos. Bill Oswalt is a fundamentally decent man who is simply out of his depth, a stark contrast to the malevolent forces at play. His performance captured the character’s bewildered nature and added to the show’s dark humor and exploration of ordinary people confronting extraordinary evil.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2009–2013)

Bob Odenkirk first introduced the world to Saul Goodman, a flamboyant and criminally connected lawyer known for his cheesy television commercials and his catchphrase, “Better call Saul!” He becomes the go-to legal counsel for Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, helping them navigate the treacherous criminal underworld of Albuquerque. Saul is a master of loopholes and morally flexible solutions, making him an invaluable, if untrustworthy, asset.

Initially intended as a comic relief character, Saul Goodman quickly became a fan favorite due to Odenkirk’s charismatic and humorous performance. He brought a perfect blend of sleaze and savvy to the role, making Saul a complex and memorable character who was more than just his flashy suits and clever one-liners. This role was a turning point in Odenkirk’s career, showcasing his immense talent to a global audience.

‘Better Call Saul’ (2015–2022)

This critically acclaimed series serves as a prequel and sequel to ‘Breaking Bad’, focusing on the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the corrupt lawyer Saul Goodman. The show delves deep into Jimmy’s backstory, exploring his complicated relationship with his brilliant but troubled brother, his struggles to be taken seriously as a lawyer, and the moral compromises that slowly erode his integrity. Odenkirk’s portrayal of Jimmy is a nuanced and deeply moving exploration of a man’s descent.

The series is a masterful character study, and Odenkirk’s performance is at its heart. He expertly navigates Jimmy’s journey from a well-intentioned but flawed public defender to the cynical and self-serving Saul Goodman, and finally to the lonely and regretful Gene Takavic. The role earned him numerous award nominations and solidified his status as one of the finest dramatic actors of his generation.

What is your favorite Bob Odenkirk performance and why?