'Better Call Saul' season 3 release date, plot news: Gus Fring's return teased; launches early 2017

Promotional still image from "Breaking Bad" featuring Giancarlo Esposito as Gustavo FringAMC

"Better Call Saul" is a prequel to "Breaking Bad," and because of its nature, some characters from the original series have appeared in the show. Actor Bob Odenkirk, who plays the titular Saul Goodman, hinted that season 3 may see the return of fan-favorite villain Gustavo Fring (Giancarlo Esposito).

During an appearance on "Conan," the actor explained that the season 2 episodes had a teaser hidden in the titles. It was revealed that fans had figured the puzzle out and that the first letter of each episode title could be arranged to spell out "Fring's back."

While this was not a direct confirmation that the writers and series creator were indeed working on bringing back the villain, it is a good hint that it is possible. In "Breaking Bad" Gus and Saul are already acquainted, and it was through Saul that Walter White (Bryan Cranston) got to meet and work with Gus.

It is speculated that Gus may be introduced in season 3, and with Saul's help, he will grow his drug empire while hiding it in the guise of a fast food chain, recruiting Saul to be his lawyer. It is also speculated that this is when Gus will hire Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks) as his new head of security.

When asked by host Conan O'Brien if Odenkirk knew anything about season 3 and if AMC was actively trying to get Esposito back to reprise his role, the actor confirmed he had no clue and that he only learned about the story of each season during production. He explained he preferred to be surprised along with the audience.

AMC has yet to make an official announcement on the possible return of Gus Fring and when "Better Call Saul" season 3 will premiere. Given that seasons 1 and 2 both released in the month of February, it is expected that season 3 will also premiere by February 2017.