The CW’s fantasy show, ‘Supernatural’ reached new heights last week (12th Oct) with the start of its 13th season. The show’s phenomenal run has secured it the position of ‘the longest–running sci–fi/fantasy series in U.S. television history’, even listed as such in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Born in September 2005, ‘Supernatural’ has not only outlived the WB network that founded it and survived the departures of numerous leading figures, but has spread into unprecedented territory as a worldwide phenomenon.
The show has also made way for a spinoff series, coming soon, entitled ‘Wayward Sisters’ with a strong, likeable female cast at the forefront, after dedicated fans displayed great support for the concept, alongside the starring actresses themselves.
So, 13 seasons in and no sign of slowing down, what is it about ‘Supernatural’ that is so special, having generated and maintaining such a massive, loyal fanbase?
Here, we take a glimpse into some of the secrets of the show’s success throughout its 13 year tenure.
1) The Story
If you haven’t already heard what ‘Supernatural’ is about (where have you been living for the past 13 years?), it follows the lives of two brothers who hunt all manner of the supernatural, ranging from monsters to ghosts, demons, werewolves, and the odd shapeshifter or two. Embroiled in a world constantly threatened by apocalyptic events, and where angels are as ‘douchey’ as the demons they fight against (and the King of Hell is British!), the brothers, Sam and Dean Winchester, work together to save the world, from everything that goes bump in the night.
Basically classic sci-fi/fantasy escapism!
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2) The Characters
As well as the thrills and excitement that come with the fantasy world of monsters, where good triumphs over evil (most of the time anyway), the foundation for Supernatural’s greatness and popularity lies with the messages of family, loyalty, love and hope that are encompassed by the characters.
Sam and Dean’s lives have not been an easy road, travelling from place to place in their beloved 1967 Chevy Impala, hunting and killing monsters, having lost their parents and others to supernatural evil. What keeps them resilient and together, however, is the strong bond between the brothers. The love, trust and reliance they have on each other keeps them able to fight the good fight, which many fans have, and continue to, respond to. Though the Winchester brothers have experienced a great deal of loss in their lives, with the angel, Castiel, and surrogate father, Bobby Singer, they are able to continue their dangerous hunting lifestyle.
Essentially, at the heart of the show is a story of family and love; two brothers who are willing to travel to heaven and hell (and even purgatory) for the other.
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Character development: A++++ (When you see how much the boys have grown, it’s bound to muster a ‘single man tear’ from your eye!)
Also tune in for the hilarious one-liners (mostly Dean’s and King of Hell, Crowley’s) and pop culture references!
3) Meta Fiction
Supernatural’s unique quality is, without a doubt, its ability to refresh and reinvigorate itself throughout the seasons. The ability to not take itself seriously and break the barriers between fantasy and reality (in other words, the fourth wall) is something ‘Supernatural’ accomplishes so well, resulting in some absolutely ridiculous but extremely enjoyable, episodes. One to note is, of course, the infamous ‘The French Mistake’, where Sam and Dean are thrust into an alternate world, only to find their life is a TV show and they have assumed the roles of the actors that play them.
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Though incredibly hilarious, the show includes more than its fair share of heartbreak, loss and sacrifice. With the focus hunting down demons and ghosts, there are bound to be more than a few casualties. The main characters themselves have, on several occasions… well, you’ll see. Trust me when I say you are in for a wild ride, with lots of tears as well as laughs.
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4) The Cast
Supernatural’s extensive cast all demonstrate a great rapport and friendship on and off screen, particularly the three leading men, Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles and Misha Collins. The talent of the actors are undoubtedly major factors in the show’s success; with just one simple look, they’ll have you sobbing like a baby.
Though the show is very emotionally charged, off screen, the cast members are extremely goofy and entertaining, as well as being very caring and charitable towards each other and those in need. Speaking from experience, the lovable cast only further cements a fan’s investment in the series.
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5) The SPN Family
Perhaps the major thing that has kept Supernatural not only airing all these years but also so loved, is the fanbase. The show has attracted an immense internet community, who display an enormous amount of creativity, from fan art to their own pieces of writing. The current ‘shipping’ phenomenon is also satisfied with the ambiguous (but really obvious, I mean, come on!) relationship between hunter, Dean Winchester and angel, Castiel.
The immense love and support for ‘Supernatural’ has resulted in hundreds of fan conventions being held, not only in America, but worldwide. The cast and crew interact and engage with fans on a frequent basis, affording them with the opportunity to ask questions, have their picture taken, as well as providing feedback on the direction of the show and other aspects, which is often taken on board.
The show’s subject matters are often dark and deal with very real, lingering human issues of addiction, suicide etc., which fans have responded to passionately. Fans constantly voice how the show has allowed to them to achieve many number of things, ranging from acceptance and confidence, to self-love, to loving others; ultimately, it has inspired them to ‘always keep fighting’ and to never give up, no matter the adversities, as Sam and Dean Winchester do, time after time, in the show.
This has led to numerous charitable campaigns, initiated by cast and fans alike, raising awareness and funds for mental health issues, as well as actively making a difference for the underprivileged in foreign countries, in light of natural disasters etc. The unity and support of the ‘SPN Family’, who rally together to help others in need, is yet another reason the show has been on the air so long.
Over the past 13 years, ‘Supernatural’ has grown into more than just a television show, becoming something much bigger than itself: a community. It serves as a platform, connecting people from all over the world, spreading a message of encouragement: to ‘always keep fighting’.