Can a television series air for 13 seasons and still bring in viewers without becoming stale? The CW’s Supernatural series is currently on lucky or perhaps unlucky season 13 and it begs the question, how has this show lasted so long? A few thoughts come to mind as I myself am a long-time fan of the show. For starters, Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles are believable as brothers, Sam and Dean Winchester and have an undeniable bond. Viewers connect and empathize with them as you find yourself on the edge of your couch clutching your popcorn, wondering if one of these challenges along the way will ultimately separate the brothers forever. That being said, they have survived hell, purgatory, and whatever else has been thrown their way while still keeping a sense of humor through it all. Is the brotherly bond enough to keep the Supernatural series from becoming tiresome, however?
For me, it also comes down to the clever way that the writers integrate episodes that some critics may refer to as fluff. Episodes like season 4’s “Yellow Fever,” where the opening scene reveals Dean running for his life from an adorable Yorkie or season 9’s “Thinman,” which has a creepy vibe brewing until you find out that it involves fan favorites, the Ghostfacers, are brilliant. Throughout the serious plot twists or the enemies that come their way, whether it involves angels or demons, this can sometimes wear on you as a viewer. Incorporating episodes where Sam and Dean are just merely going out on hunter adventures keeps it exciting and fresh, while giving true fans that sense of nostalgia that hooked them onto the show in the first place. It’s the reason why shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Charmed which were also favorites of mine, did not have as long as a run as Supernatural. These shows eventually ran their course, while Supernatural keeps going strong. It follows the main plot for the season while strategically sprinkling in fun and lighter episodes that remind you why you keep coming back for more.
Best,
Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl