Vince Gilligan, the creator behind pluribus, wishes for a world where people get along.
In a moment when America feels more fragmented than ever, his new science fiction drama takes a bold step in envisioning a scenario where happiness prevails. However, the story takes an intriguing twist when the troubled character, Carol Starka (played by Rhea Seehorn), makes it her mission to save the world from this happiness, something that carries high costs.
While Gilligan doesn’t believe that his Apple TV series will single-handedly heal the world, he hopes the themes and questions raised throughout can inspire some meaningful change in reality.
“I really just want people to get along. This is primarily a TV show, and let’s be honest, TV shows don’t fix the world issues,” Gilligan shared over a Zoom call with Decider. “I want viewers to embark on this journey and have a good time engaging with Carol. It’s easy because Leah is amazing in her role. My main desire is for people to enjoy the show, just like they would any other. But, you know, it’s just such a sweeping issue—this country feels so divided…”
With pluribus, Gilligan, who has felt a bit disheartened by the glorification of antiheroes like Walter White and Saul Goodman, has chosen to focus on a more classic hero. As he noted, “In a room full of writers, here’s a thought: we should write more good characters. For ages, villains have been so appealing, and everyone seems to enjoy watching them. It creates this odd scenario where these terrible characters start to overshadow the actual stories we should be telling.”
“My idea of hitting the jackpot would be if people watched this and thought, ‘Maybe there’s a different way to approach things,'” Gilligan expressed.
Though he shies away from specific political names or debates, his protagonist’s deep concern for the nation’s state serves as a reflective mirror, prompting essential discussions among viewers.
“The division in this country is concerning. I can’t speak for others, but in the U.S., it often feels like we’re standing on the edge of something serious. I don’t think anyone desires that, regardless of beliefs,” he mentioned. “No one with good intentions wants the current climate to continue. It’s about people being at odds with one another. My hope, albeit ambitious, is that viewers might say, ‘Maybe there’s a better way.’ That would certainly be gratifying for me.”
Since its debut on November 7, pluribus has ignited timely and philosophical discussions ranging from political issues to the isolation felt during the pandemic, and even taking jabs at artificial intelligence. Gilligan emphasizes that while he doesn’t hold all the solutions, the series aims to ask significant questions.
“I’m not sure this is the way it should stay. We run the risk of losing our individuality, and there’s a reason that’s undesirable. Perhaps we could find a balance between extremes?” Gilligan pondered.
The latest episode of pluribus is set to premiere this Friday on Apple TV.
