Ignore that murder for a second. Unlike his mentor, Jesse may actually have grown as a person since partnering with Walter White. Right, he murdered a guy who held on to karaoke videos, but still. He used to refer to barns as “cow houses.” Jesse has seen a lot and caused a lot of heartache through his association with Mr. White, but he doesn’t derive the kind of pride from this life that the old man feeds on. Though he’s suffered through bouts of crippling depression and self destruction (especially to his ear-drums), each time he resurfaces as exuberant and wide-eyed as ever. There may be hope for Jesse Pinkman. Who obviously feels bad about that murder. In the end, Skywalker may rise up against Vader. In the end, let’s encourage Jesse to flourish in the things that make him happy. Instead of playing the villainous role he was never cut out for, maybe he can give the world some more heroes. Even if it’s Kanga-Man. Don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself, Jesse. It’s not too late.

Recommending Books for the Characters of Breaking Bad