It's not like Saul was completely absent this episode.
The format of this show is much looser than BrBa. There could have never been an episode like this one completely dedicated to a supporting character in that show. The closest they came to that was with Gus in Season 4 but it was still parsed by focus on other characters.
I would make the argument that Gus' episode featured him just as heavily as this episode did Mike. Or, damn near did. Honestly? That's something that would have been a lot more welcomed on BB for me.
I never really considered Jesse a side character. The show was as much his as it was Walt's, at least after season one.
I think he was considering his story was directly attached to Walt's.
As good as the ep was, it kind of doesn't make sense to me that Mike would go on the way he does after realizing how he corrupted/ruined his son. Seems like all he does with Saul and Gus in the future is the opposite of what he came to realize if he wanted to honor his son, unless he just accepts he's corrupt.
Finally saw it. Definitely the best of the season and it makes me wonder if I'd have preferred a Mike-centric prequel to a Saul-centric prequel. Because I have to be honest; Saul's supporting cast so far like Kim and his brother Chuck bore me to tears. I only really enjoy seeing Saul and Mike on screen (and I guess Nacho when he appears).
So was almost every other character, but there were also a whole host of supporting characters who were only in the story because of Jesse. It's subjective I suppose, but I get the feeling you'd be in the minority considering Jesse a side character.
I know he was almost as important as Walt but what I initially meant is that I don't think he would be interesting as the central character/having his own show.
Is the actor who played Gus coming back for Mike's story?
Can't imagine how they avoid those two working together.
I'd have to imagine we'll see him at some point. I really don't think there's any getting around it.