The Showrunner Shares He Has an Idea of How Pluribus Might Finish... Currently.
The creative mastermind could not have predicted that his new science-fiction series would become a massive hit. “God bless the fans,” Gilligan says. “It was unexpected the show being as passionately debated as it is, and it makes me thrilled beyond words.”
Now that Season 1 of the acclaimed sci-fi show coming to an end—and the next chapter already in development—the writers' room reflected on the fan response and whether it will shape the future direction of Pluribus.
On the Overwhelming Viewer Reception
One could easily to get swayed by the constant speculation and audience predictions about Pluribus. He is making a conscious effort to steer clear of all that.
“The experience is akin to force fed hot fudge sundaes and being laughing uncontrollably,” he says. “It's the greatest thing, but I learn of it anecdotally, and that's intentional. Never in my life Googled myself, nor do I ever intend to. Not because I don't care. It's a deep trap I know I would get lost in and then I'd be pooping in a five gallon bucket from Home Depot and I'd never leave my living room.”
Regardless of trying to stay away, there’s no way to avoid the immensely favorable response to the series. The most practical strategy is to take it in stride and try not to let it influence the direction of the show.
“We don't try to tailor anything,” says writer and executive producer Alison Tatlock. “The narrative we craft is not changed by what people are saying.”
“Better to keep our noses to the grindstone,” he chimes in.
The Big Question: Will the showrunner Have a Plan for the Conclusion of Pluribus?
So if the creative staff are not listening by public opinion, does that mean they already know how Pluribus will reach its endpoint? Essentially yes… sort of.
“We've developed some interesting ideas about the ultimate destination,” Gilligan reveals. “however, we remain prepared to discard a good idea for a more brilliant plan. This approach has served us in excellent shape on Better Call Saul and on Breaking Bad even before that. We change course when we find a more perfect path and I suspect we'll be doing that.”
Then again, if all else fails, director and writer Gordon Smith has a pretty funny idea to serve as a last resort.
“I constantly suggest that it's all in a snow globe, and that we'll pull back at the end and that's where they've been all along,” Smith jokes, “but no one is buying it.”
Of course, why not reference the iconic TV endings?
“I'd love for Carol to open her eyes beside Bob Newhart,” Gilligan says with a smile.
Pluribus is streaming now on Apple TV+.
