‘Pluribus’ Boss Gordon Smith Explains How That Sneaky Better Call Saul Cameo Happened

A Hidden Treat for Fans of the “Saul” Universe

 December 1, 2025: Fans of Better Call Saul were stunned when a familiar face appeared in Gordon Smith’s new series Pluribus. The unexpected cameo immediately ignited excitement across social media, leaving viewers eager to know how the moment came together. Now, Smith is breaking his silence and revealing the behind-the-scenes story.

A Creative Spark That Started It All

Smith shared that the idea for the cameo emerged organically during the writing process. As the team developed a key episode, a particular scene called for a character with the exact personality and tone that a Better Call Saul alum could deliver. He explained that it wasn’t about nostalgia — it was about finding the right energy to elevate the moment.

Why the Cameo Made Perfect Artistic Sense

According to Smith, the cameo wasn’t included merely as fan service. It aligned naturally with Pluribus’s tone, subtly echoing the moral complexity and dark humor that defined the Saul universe. He emphasized that the actor’s presence never overshadows the story; instead, it sharpens the scene and deepens the emotional stakes.

The Actor Was Immediately On Board

Once the creative team floated the idea, Smith reached out to the former Better Call Saul actor — who responded enthusiastically. The performer reportedly loved the script and appreciated how the scene honored their past work without relying on heavy-handed references or direct callbacks.

Keeping the Cameo a Secret Was the Hardest Part

Smith admitted that maintaining secrecy during production was an intense challenge. Only a small handful of crew members were informed, and the cameo was filmed using a minimal team to avoid leaks. Even during early screenings, the moment was carefully protected to ensure fans would experience the surprise firsthand.

A Nod to the Past While Building Something New

Smith stressed that Pluribus is meant to stand on its own, but he also acknowledged the strong creative legacy he shares with the Better Call Saul team. Including the cameo was his way of honoring that history without blending the worlds outright. It served as a subtle Easter egg — a wink to long-time fans while keeping the new show’s identity intact.

Fans Celebrate the Cameo as One of the Show’s Best Moments

Viewers have widely praised the reveal, calling it clever, perfectly timed, and emotionally satisfying. Many noted that the cameo felt earned rather than forced, adding depth to Pluribus while reminding audiences why Smith’s storytelling continues to resonate.