Introduction
Eduardo "Lalo" Salamanca portrayed by actor Tony Dalton, is a leader of the Salamanca crime family, in the series “Better Call Saul” (2015-2022). He is a handsome, charismatic, witty, and violent criminal. Lalo is exceptionally resilient in surviving;, whether it’s skipping bail on a murder charge in the US or evading an assassination attempt against him in Mexico by his nemesis Gus Fring. In this blog post, we will give an overview of Lalo’s most eventful actions, some catchy quotes, and give the reader context in how he fits into the overall picture of not only Better Call Saul but Breaking Bad. *warning: tons and tons of spoilers are ahead*
Who is Lalo Salamanca?
Eduardo "Lalo" Salamanca first appeared in Season 4 of Better Call Saul as a charismatic and seemingly friendly member of the Salamanca drug cartel. Lalo's entrance into the series proved to be a game-changer, as he brought a new level of unpredictability and danger to the already tense storyline. In Breaking Bad, Lalo is mentioned but never makes an appearance. His presence, however, is felt throughout the series, especially during the iconic "Saul Goodman" kidnapping scene where Saul (played by Bob Odenkirk) pleads, "It wasn't me, it was Ignacio! Lalo didn't send you?".
Salamanca Family Tree
The Salamanca family is a powerful fictional Mexican drug cartel that plays a significant role in both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Lalo is a key figure in this family, as the nephew of the fearsome Hector Salamanca (Mark Margolis) and cousin to the cold-blooded Tuco (Raymond Cruz), Leonel (Daniel Moncada), and Marco Salamanca (Luis Moncada). The Salamancas are notorious for their ruthlessness, violence, and unwavering loyalty to the family.
Abuelita: Abuelita Salamanca is the elderly mother of Hector Salamanca and the grandmother of Tuco, Marco, and Leonel. Despite her advanced age, she remains loyal to her family and involved in the drug trade, often playing a behind-the-scenes role.
Gonzo: Gonzo is a trusted associate of Tuco Salamanca and serves as his right-hand man. His imposing stature and loyalty to the family make him a valuable asset in their drug operations. Despite his involvement in the cartel, Gonzo displays moments of kindness, revealing a more complex character beneath his tough exterior.
Hector: A fearsome figure in the drug trade, Hector Salamanca was once a prominent enforcer for the Juárez Cartel before age and illness left him wheelchair-bound and mute. As the head of the Salamanca family, he's known for his ruthlessness and determination to maintain power in the cartel.
Joaquin: Joaquin Salamanca is another member of the Salamanca family, involved in the family's drug operations. He works as an enforcer and is known for his loyalty to Hector and the rest of the family.
Leonel: Leonel Salamanca, twin brother of Marco, is also one of Hector's grandnephews. As one of "The Cousins," Leonel is a loyal enforcer for the Salamanca drug cartel, known for his stoic nature and unwavering commitment to the family's interests.
Marco: Marco Salamanca is one of Hector's grandnephews and the twin brother of Leonel. Together, they're known as "The Cousins" and act as enforcers for the cartel. Their cold, calculated demeanor and loyalty to the family make them formidable foes.
Tuco: Tuco Salamanca, Hector's volatile and unpredictable nephew, is a high-ranking member of the Salamanca drug cartel. His violent outbursts and erratic behavior make him a dangerous and unstable force within the drug trade, causing tension among his associates.
Lalo Salamanca Storyline and Highlights
After his Uncle Hector suffers a stroke in Season 3, Lalo steps up to lead the Salamanca family. As a first step in his short but eventful rule, Lalo makes a bold entrance in Season 4, Episode 8 (“Coushatta”) by paying a visit to the frontlines of the U.S. operation, led by Nacho Varga. The tension between the two is palpable, as the dislike and distrust between the two characters grows episode by episode.
Lalo Salamanca and Nacho Varga
Luckily for Nacho, Lalo must head back to Mexico after being arrested for the murder of Fred Whalen. Fred is an unlucky worker at a wire transfer office, who provides valuable intel to Lalo as to the whereabouts of Werner Ziegler, the German architect behind the construction of the Chicken Man’s secretive, epic underground meth lab. The treasonous act is the proof Lalo needs to discredit Gus, and rise in the ranks of the drug cartel led by Don Eladio.
The tension between Nacho and Lalo ironically dissipates as soon as Nacho makes the move to visit Lalo at his compound in Chihuaha, Mexico. Lalo lowers his guard at exactly the wrong time, as Nacho has been sent by Gus Fring to kill him and wipe out the Salamanca family once and for all. Miraculously, Lalo escapes unharmed and is able to track down Gus via intel from a visit to Werner’s widow in Germany. Lalo’s relentless pursuit of his nemesis Gus, not only to end his life, but to discredit his loyalty ends up being his downfall.
Lalo Salamanca Death
Warning: mega spoiler. After the failed murder attempt of Lalo by Gus Fring in Season 5, episode 10; Lalo goes on the revenge war path. Starting with finding the location and entrance of Fring’s underground lair. The two super villains come to a titanic climax of violence in “Point and Shoot” (Season 6, Episode 8). After Lalo tracks him down in his underground bunker, there is a struggle and shoot out leading to Lalo’s death. The final scene is quite memorable/haunting (See YouTube clip above).
Lalo Salamanca Smiles
@aut.twd Bro Even Smiling Whilst He’s Dying 💀 #lalosalamanca #lalo #bettercallsaul #bcs #bettercallsauledit #lalosalamancaedit #fyp #viral ♬ original sound - ᴀᴠᴇʟᴇᴛʀɪ
Lalo is a man of many smiles, an outward sign of his psychopathy. No matter the situation, Lalo’s lack of empathy creates a calm, collected, and jovial demeanor in the face of danger. Not surprisingly, Lalo’s last breath is used to laugh in the face of death as Gus stares down at his adversaries' last living moments. Let’s take a look at some of Lalo’s most noteworthy smiles across episodes. **Warning: there will be blood.
Lalo Salamanca Shirts and Fashion
- Men’s Long Sleeve Floral Dress Shirt, TUNEVUSE
- Men’s Long Sleeve Paisley Dress Shirt, TUNEVUSE
- Men’s Long Sleeve Floral Dress Shirt, TUNEVUSE
- Men’s Long Sleeve Paisley Floral Dress Shirt, TUNEVUSE
- Men’s Floral Long Sleeve Shirt, COOFANDY
- Men’s Classic Fit Cotton Blend Medallion Print Shirt, Paul Fredrick
Not only is Lalo known for being one of the most vicious members of the Salamanca cartel, but he's also known for his unforgettable fashion choices. Lalo's iconic style consists of button-up shirts with bold, bright, and intricate patterns influenced by his Mexican heritage.
Lalo's style has sparked a cult following all its own, with fans obsessed with his fashion sense. In addition, you can spot Lalo's superfans wearing their Lalo-inspired shirts at fan conventions and for fun.
Whether you love him, hate him, or love to hate him, you can't deny how well he pulls off a floral print shirt in the most dangerous of situations. Ready to get the "Lalo Look"? Above are some ways you can get Lalo's signature style.
Lalo Salamanca Actor Tony Dalton
Tony Dalton, a Mexican-American actor, was born on February 13, 1975, in Laredo, Texas. He studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York City. Dalton began his acting career in Mexican cinema and television, gaining widespread recognition for his role in the crime drama series "Sr. Ávila". His portrayal of Lalo Salamanca in Better Call Saul has earned him critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
Lalo Quotable Lines
Lalo's charm and menace are perfectly captured in his memorable quotes. Some of his most famous lines include:
- "You're gonna die" - S4 E8: Coushatta (speaking to Nacho about the tacos he prepared for him to eat)
- "Don't even worry. It's gonna be like I'm not even here" - S4 E8: Coushatta (speaking to Nacho as he inspects operations from the front lines)
- "Is there any chance, and I know the answer is probably no, but is it possible for me to meet the owner?" - S4 E9: Wiedershehen (referring to Gus Frens, owner of pollo hermanos)
- "Tell me again. Start from the beginning." - S5 E9: Bad Choice Road (speaking to Jimmy and Kim, asks them to repeat the alibi to try and catch them in a lie)
Most-watched episodes featuring Lalo
- "Wiedersehen" (Season 4, Episode 9)
- "Bagman" (Season 5, Episode 8)
- "Something Unforgivable" (Season 5, Episode 10).
- “Point and Shoot” (Season 6, Episode 8).
Lalo Salamanca Trivia
Q: Is Lalo Salamanca mentioned in Breaking Bad?
A: Yes, Lalo is mentioned in Breaking Bad, but never makes an appearance. His presence is felt in the show during the iconic "Saul Goodman" kidnapping scene, where Saul pleads, "It wasn't me, it was Ignacio! Lalo didn't send you?".
Q: Where was Tony Dalton born?
A: Tony Dalton was born on February 13, 1975, in Laredo, Texas. His father is Mexican and Mother is from the U.S.
Q: Where did Tony Dalton study acting?
A: Tony Dalton studied acting at the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York City, where he honed his craft before beginning his acting career. Lee Strasberg’s alumni list is a who’s who of Hollywood elites from Angelina Jolie to John Leguizamo.
Q: What was Tony Dalton's role in the Mexican crime drama series "Sr. Ávila"?
A: In the series "Sr. Ávila," which aired on HBO from 2013 to 2018, Tony Dalton played the lead character, Roberto Ávila, a hitman who leads a double life as an insurance salesman.
Q: What languages does Tony Dalton speak fluently?
A: Tony Dalton speaks fluent English and Spanish, allowing him to work in both Mexican and American cinema and television productions seamlessly.
Q: What Mexican film did Tony Dalton co-write and star in?
A: In 2004, Tony Dalton co-wrote and starred in the Mexican film "Matando Cabos," a dark comedy about two friends trying to dispose of a seemingly dead mobster, which became a cult hit in Mexico.
Q: Has Tony Dalton received an Emmy or Oscar nomination?
A: No Oscars, but for his portrayal of Lalo Salamanca in Better Call Saul, Tony Dalton received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2020.
Q: Is Tony Dalton a screenwriter?
A: Yes, Tony Dalton is an accomplished screenwriter, having co-written several films, including "Matando Cabos" (2004), "Sultanes del Sur" (2007), and "Amsterdam" (2009).
Q: In which animated film does Tony Dalton feature?
A: Yes, Tony Dalton lent his voice to the character of Halcón in the Spanish-language version of the animated film "Rango" (2011), starring Johnny Depp.
Q: What meal does Lalo famously make for Nacho Varga in Season 4?
A: Lalo Salamanca is shown to be a skilled cook in Season 4, Episode 8 ("Coushatta") of Better Call Saul, when he makes a traditional Mexican dish for his fellow cartel members.
Q: In which season does Lalo Salamanca survive an assassination attempt?
A: Lalo survives an assassination attempt orchestrated by Gus Fring in Season 5, Episode 10 ("Something Unforgivable") of Better Call Saul.
Q: What car does Lalo work on in Better Call Saul?
A: Lalo Salamanca is a skilled mechanic, which is evident when he quickly diagnoses and fixes a problem with his 1970 Chevy Monte Carlo.
Q: True or False. Lalo hates his Uncle Hector.
A: False. Lalo Salamanca's relationship with his uncle Hector is one of respect and loyalty. Lalo genuinely cares for Hector's well-being and is determined to maintain the Salamanca family's power in the drug trade.
Q: Was Lalo Salamanca originally intended to be killed off in his first season on Better Call Saul?
A: Yes, the character of Lalo was initially meant to be killed off in his first season on Better Call Saul, but due to Tony Dalton's captivating performance and the positive response from fans, the creators decided to keep him alive and develop his storyline further.
Q: Who are Lalo Salamanca's family members in the Salamanca drug cartel?
A: Lalo Salamanca is the nephew of the fearsome Hector Salamanca and the cousin of Tuco, Leonel, and Marco Salamanca, all of whom are ruthless members of the Salamanca drug cartel.
Q: What other names is Lalo known by?
A: Don Eduardo and Jorge Guzman.
Summary of appearances by season
Lalo Salamanca made his first appearance in Season 4 of Better Call Saul. Here's a summary of his appearances by season:
- Season 4 (Episodes 8, 9, 10): Lalo is introduced as a friendly and charismatic member of the Salamanca cartel. He quickly shows his darker side, taking control of the family's operations and posing a threat to Gus Fring and his associates.
- Season 5 (Episodes 1-3, 6-10): Lalo becomes a more central figure, as his rivalry with Gus Fring intensifies. He orchestrates an attack on Gus's drug supply and eventually becomes suspicious of Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks) and Jimmy McGill, aka Saul Goodman. The season ends with Lalo surviving an assassination attempt ordered by Gus and vowing revenge.
- Season 6 (Episode 1, 5-8): Lalo focused on staying undiscovered, hidden from the view of his enemies. As the season progresses, Lalo hones in on his target Gus, only to be undone in Episode 8.
FAQs
How did Lalo Salamanca die?
He was killed by Gustavo Fring in “Point and Shoot” in Season 6, Episode 8 of Better Call Saul. After Lalo tracks him down in his underground bunker, there is a struggle and shoot out leading to Lalo’s death. The final scene is a quite vivid and gruesome view of Lalo smiling defiantly as he bleeds out.
Who plays Lalo Salamanca?
Tony Dalton nee Álvaro Luis Bernat Dalton, is a Mexican-American actor born in the bordertown of Laredo, Texas. He famously played Lalo in Better Call Saul/Breaking Bad as well as Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies.
Is Lalo Salamanca in Breaking Bad?
No. He is mentioned by Saul when Jesse/Walt try to kidnap him saying, “Who sent you? Lalo?”.
When does Lalo Salamanca appear?
His debut appearance was during the eighth episode of Season 4 titled “Coushatte”. Lalo makes a cheeky surprise entrance to check up on Nacho, making himself at home in the family restaurant cooking tacos. The tension between the two is palpable and evolves over following seasons.
Why did Lalo Salamanca get arrested?
He’s arrested in Season 5 episode 6 for the killing of Fred Whalen. Fred worked at a travel office that Lalo used to try and track down Werner Ziegler.
What car does Lalo Salamanca drive?
A green 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
¿A quién mató Lalo Salamanca?
Lalo mata a Fred Whalen como se mencionó anteriormente, así como a Howard Hamlin. Howard fue asesinado para evitar testigos y asustar a Jimmy y Kim para que hablaran.
Who did Lalo Salamanca kill?
Lalo kills Fred Whalen as mentioned above, as well as Howard Hamlin. Howard was killed to avoid witnesses and to scare Jimmy and Kim into talking.
How to dress like Lalo Salamanca?
Long-sleeved floral shirts, paisley, bright colors, slim fit, starched.
Is Lalo Salamanca a psychopath?
Yes. He lacks empathy, doesn’t hesitate to use extreme violence, and uses his lack of guilt and remorse to thoughtfully plan his violent crimes.
How did Lalo Salamanca Know to Go to Germany?
He followed Werner’s trail from the Travelwire agency, where he killed Fred Whalen.
What does Lalo mean?
In Spanish, Lalo is a common nickname for Eduardo. You can learn more about what does lalo mean, here.
What does Lalo Salamanca have to do with the Lalo App?
Well, rumor has it Lalo loved the app with his namesake. He used it to create a family capsule to share special memories, and stories to preserve for future generations. You can see Lalo’s Memory Capsule here. See a preview shot below from the holidays (please note this is satire). While the Lalo app has no direct or formal relationship with Mr. Salamanca, we do share a common name and hope you give us a try!
