Goodman Family Genealogy & History

Saul Goodman, originally James Morgan "Jimmy" McGill, is a pivotal fictional character in the Breaking Bad universe, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk. Created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, Saul is a colorful, self-centered lawyer integral to the drug empire of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. He first appeared in Breaking Bad's second season and became the protagonist of the acclaimed spin-off series Better Call Saul, which explores his transformation from aspiring lawyer to morally compromised criminal lawyer. Odenkirk's portrayal earned him six Primetime Emmy nominations, highlighting his critical acclaim in a role that blends comedy with drama.

Benny Goodman, known as the "King of Swing," was a trailblazing American clarinetist and bandleader whose orchestra became one of the most popular swing big bands from 1936 to the mid-1940s. His historic 1938 concert at Carnegie Hall marked a significant milestone in jazz history. Goodman played a pivotal role in launching the careers of many jazz musicians and led one of the first integrated jazz groups during a time of racial segregation. Apart from his swing accomplishments, he also pursued classical music, maintaining a lifelong dedication to his craft.

Benny Goodman was born Benjamin David Goodman on May 30, 1909, in Chicago, as the ninth of twelve children to Jewish emigrants from the Russian Empire. His father, David Goodman, a tailor from Warsaw, and his mother, Dora Grisinsky, from Kaunas, met in Baltimore before settling in Chicago. Despite their financial struggles, Goodman's father encouraged musical education as a means to escape poverty, enrolling Benny and his brothers in free music classes, which profoundly influenced his future career.

Amy Goodman, born April 13, 1957, in Bay Shore, New York, is a renowned American broadcast journalist, syndicated columnist, and investigative reporter. She is best known as the main host of Democracy Now!, a prominent progressive global news program. Goodman's impactful journalism has covered significant global issues such as the East Timor independence movement and Chevron Corporation's role in Nigeria. Her accolades include the Thomas Merton Award, Right Livelihood Award, Izzy Award, and the I.F. Stone Medal for Journalistic Independence. Her work emphasizes providing voices often unheard in mainstream media, contributing significantly to independent journalism.

Amy Goodman was born to secular Jewish parents active in social action groups. Her father, George Goodman, was an ophthalmologist, while her mother, Dorothy Goodman, was a literature teacher and social worker. Amy has two brothers, David and Steven N. Goodman. Her maternal grandfather was an Orthodox rabbi, and her maternal grandmother hailed from Rivne, now part of Ukraine.

Steve Goodman was a prominent American folk and country singer-songwriter, renowned for his enduring contributions to music. He penned the classic "City of New Orleans," famously recorded by Arlo Guthrie and later celebrated by artists like Willie Nelson, earning Goodman a posthumous Grammy for Best Country Song in 1985. Another notable work is "You Never Even Called Me by My Name," a bestseller for David Allan Coe. As a dedicated Chicago Cubs fan, he also composed the beloved anthem "Go Cubs Go." Despite his battle with leukemia, Goodman pursued a vibrant music career, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Steve Goodman was born into a middle-class Jewish family on Chicago's North Side. He grew up in a loving household that supported his burgeoning musical talents from a young age.