Hey Better Call Saul fans! Let's dive deep into one of the most tragic and unexpected storylines from the series: the downfall of Howard Hamlin and its devastating impact on his wife, Cheryl. Howard's character arc took a shockingly dark turn, and understanding the nuances of his relationship with Cheryl adds another layer of emotional complexity to the show. This article explores the events leading to Howard's demise, Cheryl's reaction, and the broader implications for the Better Call Saul narrative.

The Setup: Howard Hamlin, High Achiever

Before we get to the tragic events, let's remember who Howard Hamlin was. Howard appeared initially as the slick, confident, and somewhat arrogant head of Hamlin, Hamlin & McGill (HHM). He seemed to have it all: a successful career, a polished image, and a beautiful home. But underneath the surface, Howard was struggling with insecurities and a deep-seated need for validation. He projected an image of perfection but was battling inner demons, a fact that becomes increasingly apparent as the series progresses. His high-pressure job and the constant need to maintain his firm's reputation took a toll on his mental health. We see him attending therapy and trying various methods to cope with the stress, revealing a vulnerability that humanizes him beyond his initial portrayal. Howard's relationship with Jimmy McGill was always complex, marked by a mix of professional rivalry and a begrudging respect. This dynamic set the stage for the devastating scheme orchestrated by Jimmy and Kim Wexler.

The Scheme: Jimmy and Kim's Cruel Game

Jimmy and Kim, driven by their own motivations (some justified, others less so), launched an elaborate plan to sabotage Howard's career and reputation. Their goal was to humiliate Howard publicly and force a settlement in the Sandpiper case, which would financially benefit Jimmy and Kim while severely damaging Howard. The scheme involved a series of carefully orchestrated events designed to make Howard appear incompetent and unstable. They planted false evidence, spread rumors about his drug use, and manipulated situations to undermine his credibility. One of the most shocking moments was when they altered documents to make Howard look foolish in front of a major client. All of these actions were calculated to chip away at Howard's confidence and professional standing, pushing him to the brink. The cruelty of their plan was amplified by the fact that Howard, despite his flaws, didn't truly deserve such malicious treatment. His biggest offense, in their eyes, was his perceived role in blocking Jimmy's career advancement and his association with Chuck McGill, Jimmy's late brother, with whom Jimmy had a deeply troubled relationship.

The Confrontation: A Fatal Mistake

The culmination of Jimmy and Kim's scheme led to a fateful confrontation. Howard, realizing he had been played, confronted Jimmy and Kim at their apartment. He was furious and demanded answers, wanting to understand why they had targeted him so relentlessly. He arrived at their apartment, ready to expose their actions and hold them accountable. However, he walked into a situation far more dangerous than he could have imagined. Unbeknownst to Howard, Lalo Salamanca, a dangerous cartel enforcer, was also present at the apartment, waiting to confront Jimmy about his role in a previous betrayal. In a shocking and sudden act of violence, Lalo shot Howard in the head, killing him instantly. Howard's death was a tragic and senseless end to a man who, despite his flaws, was ultimately a victim of circumstance and the escalating conflict between Jimmy and the criminal underworld. His presence at the wrong place at the wrong time sealed his fate, making him collateral damage in a much larger and more dangerous game.

Cheryl's Grief: A Widow's Perspective

Cheryl Hamlin, Howard's wife, is a crucial figure in understanding the full impact of his death. She is initially portrayed as a supportive and loving partner, though somewhat detached from the specifics of Howard's professional life. After Howard's death, Cheryl is left to grapple with profound grief and confusion. She becomes suspicious of the official narrative surrounding Howard's death, sensing that something is amiss. Her interactions with Jimmy and Kim after Howard's demise are particularly tense and revealing. Cheryl questions their accounts of Howard's behavior, pointing out inconsistencies and expressing her disbelief that he would suddenly become addicted to drugs or act erratically. She is determined to uncover the truth, driven by a desire to understand what really happened to her husband and to clear his name from the false accusations that Jimmy and Kim had propagated. Cheryl's pursuit of the truth highlights the collateral damage caused by Jimmy and Kim's actions, illustrating how their choices had far-reaching consequences that extended beyond their immediate targets.

The Aftermath: Unraveling the Truth

In the aftermath of Howard's death, Cheryl seeks answers and closure. She hires a private investigator to look into the circumstances surrounding his demise, refusing to accept the fabricated story that Jimmy and Kim try to sell her. This investigation puts pressure on Jimmy and Kim, forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions. The weight of their guilt becomes increasingly heavy, particularly for Kim, who begins to question the morality of their scheme and its devastating outcome. Cheryl's relentless pursuit of the truth ultimately contributes to Kim's decision to confess her and Jimmy's crimes, leading to their respective downfalls. Her character serves as a moral compass, highlighting the ethical bankruptcy of Jimmy and Kim's actions and their profound impact on innocent lives. Cheryl's strength and determination in the face of tragedy make her a compelling and sympathetic figure in the Better Call Saul narrative.

The Broader Implications: Consequences and Redemption

Howard's death and Cheryl's subsequent grief serve as a pivotal turning point in Better Call Saul. It underscores the idea that actions have consequences, and that even seemingly harmless schemes can spiral out of control with devastating results. The tragedy also highlights the theme of redemption, particularly for Kim, who eventually accepts responsibility for her role in Howard's downfall and seeks to atone for her actions. The storyline forces viewers to confront the moral complexities of the characters and their choices. Was Jimmy's transformation into Saul Goodman inevitable? Could Kim have prevented the tragic outcome? These are the questions that linger long after the credits roll. The storyline ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition, the corrosive effects of guilt, and the importance of accountability.

So, what do you guys think about Howard and Cheryl's storyline? Did you find it to be one of the most tragic parts of Better Call Saul? Share your thoughts in the comments below!