Exclusive Insider Insights: Supernatural Creator Reveals Untold Stories from the Epic 15-Year Journey

Summary

Eric Kripke reflects on the unexpected longevity of Supernatural and admits he never expected the show to last as long as it did.

After the conclusion of the show, Kripke experienced a mix of uncertainty and pressure due to the absence of Supernatural residuals, which had provided him with a safety net.

Despite the conclusion of the series, there remains a potential for Supernatural to make a comeback in the form of a revival series, as Jensen Ackles has dropped hints and proposed the concept of a limited 10-episode season.

Supernatural creator Eric Kripke reflects on the enduring success of his hit series. Debuting in 2005 on The WB, which eventually became The CW Network, Supernatural starred Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles as the Winchester brothers, Sam and Dean. Lasting an impressive 15 seasons, the show became the longest-running fantasy series on American TV. Kripke stepped down as showrunner after season 5, passing the torch to executive producer Sera Gamble, who left after season 7.

At a Supernatural reunion held during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA picket lines at Warner Bros., Kripke recently discussed his time on the series. He admitted that he never expected it to last as long as it did, but he always found comfort in the financial stability provided by his residuals from the show. When Supernatural finally came to an end, Kripke confessed to feeling a moment of pressure as he no longer had a backup plan. Read his comments below:

Will Supernatural Ever Get A Revival Series?

It was peculiar because regardless of what transpired in my professional life, I always had the reassurance of thinking, 'Well, if I really mess up, I still have the income from Supernatural residuals, and I continue to receive royalties because they're still producing it' — the same goes for The Winchesters. I even experienced a moment when it all came to an end, and I thought to myself, 'Oh dear, I better make sure I don't make any mistakes now. I don't have this backup plan.' My utmost aspiration was to spend five years working on that show. I couldn't have foreseen the magnitude and impact it would eventually have. I am utterly humbled by the entire situation and profoundly amazed and proud. However, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that the show would run for 15 years and resonate with so many people. I lack the words to adequately express my awe. It completely astounds me.

Despite enjoying an unusually long run that most showrunners can only dream of, it didn't take long for fans to start clamoring for a possible Supernatural season 16 after the series finale. Even though Dean was killed during a vampire hunt in the 2020 finale, he reunited with his brother Sam in Heaven after living a fulfilling life and dying of old age. Death has never been much of an obstacle for the Winchester brothers in a show filled with incredible resurrections and alternate universes. Consequently, the show's writers could potentially find a way to bring the duo back for one last thrilling adventure.

Last year, Ackles himself hinted at the possibility of reviving the Supernatural series, suggesting that he and Jared had not permanently retired from their roles. With The Winchesters spinoff failing to secure a new home after cancellation, a revival series appears to be their only option if Ackles and Padalecki are determined to return. Ackles has also suggested a limited 10-episode season where the Winchester brothers tackle one final case.

However, it may still be too early to see Sam and Dean back in action, as other shows often wait years, or even decades, for a revival. Additionally, with both actors pursuing other career opportunities, it may be challenging to align their schedules in the coming years. Nevertheless, fans hope that Supernatural will eventually make a comeback, and when it does, Kripke, the original creator, would be the perfect person to lead the way.

Source: Deadline