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The acclaimed writer-producer never anticipated that the Apple TV+ show would emerge as a massive hit. “I am so grateful to the audience,” he states. “It was unexpected the show being as widely discussed as it is, and it makes me overjoyed.”

Now that Season 1 of the hit series coming to an end—and the next chapter greenlit and underway—Gilligan and his team opened up about the audience reaction and whether it will influence the storyline of Pluribus.

Regarding the Tremendous Viewer Reception

One could easily to get sidetracked by the constant speculation and fan theories regarding Pluribus. He is striving to avoid both.

“It's like being force fed hot fudge sundaes and being laughing uncontrollably,” he says. “It's wonderful, but I learn of it through word of mouth, and that's intentional. Not once have I looked myself up on the internet, nor do I ever plan to. Not because I don't care. It's a rabbit hole I know I would get lost in and then I'd be pooping in a five gallon bucket from Home Depot and I'd be stuck in my living room.”

In spite of Gilligan’s best intentions, there’s it's impossible to ignore the immensely favorable response to the series. The most practical strategy is to acknowledge it humbly and try not to let it alter the course of the show.

“It is not our goal to tailor anything,” says Alison Tatlock. “Our storytelling is not influenced by online forums.”

“We prefer to keep our focus on the work,” Gilligan concludes.

A Pressing Query: Will the creator See the Finale of Pluribus?

Given that the creative staff aren't taking cues by audience theories, does that mean they have already decided how Pluribus will reach its endpoint? The answer is yes… sort of.

“We have some compelling concepts about how the story could conclude,” Gilligan says. “yet we stand ready to throw out a solid concept for a more brilliant plan. This approach has served us in good stead on Better Call Saul and on Breaking Bad even before that. We change course when we conceive of something superior and I imagine we will be doing that.”

Alternatively, if all else fails, director and writer Gordon Smith has a rather amusing idea to use as a backup.

“My recurring proposal is that everything takes place within a snow globe, and that we'll zoom out in the finale and we're in there,” he says humorously, “though the idea hasn't gained traction.”

Then again, why not reference the legendary finales?

“I'd love for Carol to awaken next to Bob Newhart,” Gilligan says with a smile.

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Pluribus is streaming now on Apple TV.