Better Call Saul finale airs Monday night

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The last episode of Better Call Saul airs Monday night, nearly 15 years since Walter White became a household name in Breaking Bad.

The ripple effects these shows have had are huge. Not only was it the springboard for the growing film industry in New Mexico, but it has also helped the local economy in more ways than one.

So KOB 4 asked, is this really the end? And if so, what does that mean for the businesses that rely on people – interested in a show – that might soon be off the air?

The film tourism business is alive and well, according to the guy behind the wheel of the Breaking Bad tour.

“Really busy, we’ve had just a huge influx of people coming into town because of the statue. Also, Bryan and Aaron were here,” said Frank Sandoval with the Breaking Bad RV tours.

Now the final season of the spin-off nominated for seven Emmys will end Monday night.

“It’s going to take it’s place in the annals of film history and Albuquerque – we’re really proud to be a part of that,” said Cyndy McCrosse, CABQ film liaison. 

McCrossen is not only the City of Albuquerque’s film liaison, but he has worked on over 40 episodes of the series as a location scout.

“No, it’s heartbreaking, it’s like – you know – your best friend and saying goodbye to them,” said McCrossen. 

She says not only has the show treated the City of Albuquerque as a character – by mentioning real businesses, stats, and true-to-life locations – it has also played a role in training the people behind the scenes that continue to be the backbone of the film industry.

“You know, Breaking Bad will always be, you know, at the heart of who Albuquerque is,” McCrossen said. 

So is this finally the end of the Breaking Bad universe?

“Vince and Peter have been pretty straightforward about – you know we have to show what else we’re capable of,” said McCrossen. 

But those who are not worried about the Breaking Bad economy slowing down say something else.

“I’m going to miss it. I don’t see it going anywhere either because there’s rumors that there’s going to be a spin-off,” said Frank Sandoval. “I think we need to just brace for the ride.”