Who Does Carol Burnett Play On Better Call Saul?

Carol Burnett is a pioneer in the comedy world. She has made appearances in many iconic sitcoms, including "The Lucy Show" and "Mama's Family." However, she is probably most famous for "The Carol Burnett Show," which aired from 1967 to 1978 and again in 1991. The first variety program to be hosted by a woman, Burnett's efforts resulted in 25 Emmy Awards, and is considered one of the best shows of all time. 

Though Burnett is primarily known for her work in comedy, she has branched out into several genres. In 2022, she was in the final episodes of the "Breaking Bad" spin-off, "Better Call Saul." She played Marion, the mother of Jeff (Pat Healy), who had a run with Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk), who also goes by Gene Takavic. 

Though Marion is only in four episodes, she actually helps set up the finale. When she finds out that Gene is really Saul Goodman, she tips off the police, using a Life Alert device, and drives the ending of the series. 

Marion first meets "Gene" when her motorized scooter gets stuck in the snow. "Gene" cuts the wires, and manually helps her home. The two strike up a quick friendship even though her son, Jimmy, and "Gene" had a confrontation in an earlier episode.

Marion believes "Gene" to be a good influence on her son—who fell into a bad crowd in their old hometown—despite the fact that criminal activities are still taking place only steps from her back door.

When Jeff is soon arrested and accused of breaking and entering, Marion talks to "Gene" about what her son got up to in Albuquerque. He makes an offhanded comment that Jeff won't need a bondsman in Omaha, unlike in his previous town. His knowledge of bonds strikes a chord with Marion, who is able to expose his identity as Saul Goodman with an internet search.

Saul rips the phone out of the wall to prevent her from calling the police. However, Marion thinks quickly, and presses her Life Alert button to report that a wanted man is in her kitchen. Though Saul flees, Marion is able to make out his license plate, which helps the police track him down. In the end, he surrenders and is locked up for 86 years.

According to creator Vince Gilligan, Marion was supposed to die. Bob Odenkirk—who didn't want to be known as someone who killed Carol Burnett—refused, especially since she had been nothing but kind to Saul.