10 Best TV Performances Of 2017 (So Far)

2. Michael McKean - Better Call Saul

Better Call Saul Chuck McGill Michael McKean
AMC

Unlike his on-screen brother Bob Odenkirk, you'd never tell from Michael McKean's performance that he was - prior to Better Call Saul - best known for his comedic work. There's no humour to be found in Chuck McGill, but instead one of the most tragic performances on TV.

In previous seasons of Better Call Saul it'd be fair to say Odenkirk was the best thing about it (and Rhea Seehorn is also great), but in Season 3 - which also happened to be its strongest yet - McKean is just stunningly good.

The conflict between Jimmy and Chuck reaches new heights in Season 3, and that paints the latter as more of a villain than ever before. And make no mistake, McKean is - at times - utterly detestable as the elder McGill brother.

Importantly, though, he's not 'just' a villain, but also a very human character, and that shines through McKean's performance. He has complete conviction in his beliefs and actions, and the performance is especially powerful and moving when it comes to his mental illness, leading to a stirring display that will cast a large shadow over the rest of the series.

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Contributor
Contributor

NCTJ-qualified journalist. Most definitely not a racing driver. Drink too much tea; eat too much peanut butter; watch too much TV. Sadly only the latter paying off so far. A mix of wise-old man in a young man's body with a child-like wonder about him and a great otherworldly sensibility.