Ranking Misha Collins' 9 Remarkable Roles on Supernatural

Article Overview

Collins' portrayal of Castiel in "Supernatural" has made the character a fan-favorite, thanks to his endearing confusion and bond with Dean.

The content showcases Collins' versatility in portraying various versions of Castiel, such as Godstiel and Apocalypse World Castiel. The role of Jimmy Novak, Castiel's vessel, emphasizes the lasting repercussions of sacrifice and the significant role the character plays in Castiel's growth.

Misha Collins, known for his role in Supernatural, has played multiple characters on the show, with some being more captivating than others. Castiel, his main character introduced in season 4, quickly became a fan favorite. This could be due to Castiel's charming confusion with earthly customs and his rapid bond with Dean. From making occasional appearances, Castiel soon became an essential member of Team Free Will.

Before Supernatural, Collins had notable roles in Girl, Interrupted, 24, ER, and made guest appearances on several other TV shows. Along with his diverse acting career, Collins is also recognized as an activist, poet, and director, showcasing his wide range of talents. While being on Supernatural, he not only had the opportunity to showcase his acting skills through various interpretations of Castiel, but also took on reinvented portrayals of both existing and new characters. He even had the chance to direct an episode. Though some characters may not be as adored as others by fans, they all demonstrate Collins' exceptional acting prowess.

9. Godstiel/Leviathan-Possessed Castiel

The Leviathan season is widely regarded as one of the least popular, with the possession of Castiel by these creatures being the catalyst for the events that unfold. By unlocking the gates to Purgatory, which is a highly risky move, Castiel declares himself as the new God and brutally eliminates any angels who oppose his rule. Unbeknownst to him, he continues this leadership style until the Leviathans take control and launch an attack on Bobby, Sam, and Dean.

Godstiel's thirst for power and lack of concern for his fellow angels is likely what makes this version of Castiel less appealing. While it effectively showcases the influence of the Leviathans and their disregard for human life, it also highlights one of the crucial moments when Castiel keeps his plans hidden from the Winchesters, leading to disastrous consequences. Despite realizing that he is possessed and will eventually explode, Castiel's solution to avoid the aftermath is to submerge himself in a lake, unwittingly providing the Leviathans with a direct opportunity to possess others after his explosion.

8. Apocalypse World Castiel

In the Apocalypse World, a unique occurrence is witnessed with the emergence of various versions of characters, including Archangel Michael. One notable instance is when Castiel, in a single appearance during season 13, reveals a disturbing inclination for inflicting torture. This becomes evident when Charlie and Ketch find themselves captured by the army of Alternate Michael. The detestable nature of this particular Castiel is further accentuated by his unrelenting hatred for human life, propensity for violence, and unsettling resemblance to Adolf Hitler.

Despite the character's toxic attributes, Collins's portrayal in this episode, complete with a German accent, captivates the audience. Furthermore, in a climactic confrontation, the Castiel from the main universe stands up against his evil counterpart, solidifying his unwavering loyalty to humanity. Ultimately, he successfully eliminates his nefarious alter ego, confirming his status as the only character to have killed his own alternate version. Although the similarities between Apocalypse World Castiel and Nazi ideology serve as a commentary on the brutality exhibited by Alternate Michael's soldiers, Collins's performance renders the character credible yet irredeemable.

7. Lucifer

Throughout the series, Lucifer appears in various incarnations, including versions portrayed by Collins, Padalecki, and the primary portrayal by Mark Pellegrino. Collins' interpretation displays animated behavior yet retains the original Lucifer's indifference towards others' lives. However, Collins' version, known as Casifer, not only kills Rowena in his first episode but also manipulates Sam and Dean as Castiel, showcasing a definitive betrayal.

The possession of Castiel by Lucifer is an unplanned event, which leaves Sam and Dean unaware until later on, generating a recurring theme of conflict stemming from secrets. Collins' dedication to his portrayal is evident, as he revealed in an interview with EW: "I just watched [Pellegrino's] episodes over and over again and tried to learn as much as I could." He even sought advice and pointers from Pellegrino himself on embodying the role of Lucifer. Despite appearing in numerous episodes and engaging in deception within Heaven and Hell, Collins' ability to seamlessly switch between the characters of Lucifer and Castiel throughout certain episodes is a testament to his skill and versatility as an actor.

6. Cosmic Entity/Shadow

5. 2014 Castiel

The Empty features another instance of Collins showcasing his versatility by portraying different characters alongside the original Castiel. Once Castiel wakes up in The Empty, he comes face-to-face with the Cosmic Entity, which assumes his appearance, leading to an intriguing conversation. This particular character exudes grumpiness and possesses immense power, characterized by a unique voice and mannerisms. It further emphasizes Collins' talent for adopting various accents and body language to create fresh personas. While the Cosmic Entity poses a threat to Castiel, the performance itself is engaging due to its foundation in relatable desires, such as the longing for peaceful sleep. Furthermore, it introduces the audience to the concept of supernatural beings and locations that even God doesn't control in the Supernatural universe.

5. 2014 Castiel

In an alternate universe plagued by the Croatoan virus and where Sam willingly accepted Lucifer's possession, the 2014 version of Castiel starkly contrasts his counterpart from the main universe. He exhibits qualities like longing and indulgence that are inherently human, which is to be expected since he no longer possesses his angelic powers. However, he still retains traces of his former abilities as he can perceive that Dean has traveled back in time.

His Zen, unfazed demeanor gives rise to humorous moments as he interacts with Past Dean. Notably, his allegiance to 2014 Dean is the sole genuine attribute he shares with the original Castiel. This unhygienic and bumbling rendition of Castiel serves as the show's inaugural alternate version of the character, allowing audiences to witness Collins' extensive acting range. Nonetheless, due to the restricted occurrence of this character and its lack of enduring impact, it does not stand as Collins' most remarkable role on the show.

4. Emmanuel

Supernatural has featured various healers throughout its run, including the faith healer in season 1. This healer possesses the ability to restore people's health but demands the sacrifice of another life, facilitated by a reaper. In season 7, Emmanuel plays a pivotal role in the story arc. Although he appears in only one episode, his transformation following Castiel's self-destruction caused by the Leviathans serves as a means to rectify the consequences of Castiel's Purgatory plan.

Emmanuel, a calm and gentle healer, recollects his true identity as Castiel when Dean and the demon Meg recruit him to annihilate demons in order to aid Sam, who is confined in a psychiatric facility after his mental barrier shatters. This triggers a long-awaited reunion between Dean and Castiel, as Dean hands over Castiel's iconic trenchcoat to him once again. Ultimately, Dean forgives Castiel, implying that his return was intended to rectify past mistakes. Emmanuel, therefore, plays a crucial role in Castiel's redemption, as he selflessly takes on Sam's hallucinations in order to alleviate Sam's suffering.

3. Misha Collins

One of Supernatural's most beloved episodes features Collins portraying himself. In "The French Mistake," Sam and Dean find themselves transported to the real world, where Ackles, Padalecki, and Collins are actors playing their Supernatural characters on a TV show. This episode serves as a clever parody that satirizes the TV industry and the cast themselves. Collins delivers an entertaining performance as an enthusiastic actor who strives to get along with his co-stars and simply have a great time.

One of the most beloved moments from the episode is when Collins live-tweets unfolding events, with these tweets actually being genuine and still available on his real-life account. Additionally, Collins and Padalecki have both expressed that this episode holds a special place in their hearts, as it is considered one of their all-time favorites (according to TV Guide). Collins' departure from his typically serious portrayal of Castiel to a fictionalized version of himself in "The French Mistake" reveals his more playful side, contributing to the episode's revered status.

2. Jimmy Novak

One of Collins' most crucial roles is Jimmy, a human character that plays a vital part in Castiel's hero journey. Without Jimmy, Castiel wouldn't have the beloved vessel he possesses. In season 4, Castiel visits Jimmy and gains permission to possess him. Jimmy's unwavering faith, love for his wife Amelia, and daughter Claire align perfectly with Castiel's mission, leading to his continuous possession. Despite being hunted by demons, Jimmy's unwavering dedication to protect his family drives him to reunite with them even after being freed from Castiel's grasp. This exemplifies the lasting consequences that sacrifice can have.

Moreover, the ongoing narrative of Castiel feeling guilty for depriving Claire of her father and Amelia of her husband remains prominent. Castiel himself acknowledges this as his greatest regret. While Jimmy primarily appears as Castiel's vessel throughout the show, his significance to Castiel's character extends even into season 14, when an alternate Castiel possesses him to interact with Dean. Jimmy's portrayal by Collins is particularly poignant, as he represents the ultimate act of sacrifice.

1. Castiel

Collins' best role on the show undeniably is Castiel, as he is the central character through whom numerous conflicts, smaller versions, and relationship dynamics are explored. While instances of Castiel's betrayal towards Dean and Sam exist, such as his collaboration with Crowley in Purgatory and withholding information about Jack's soul, he consistently proves to be instrumental in furthering Team Free Will's mission. Dean's escape from Hell and the ultimate sacrifice to eliminate Billie, coupled with preventing Chuck from destroying Earth, would not have been possible without Castiel's pivotal involvement.

Castiel's various iterations, including his human version Steve, his future self bearing the Mark of Cain in season 15, and his Purgatory self, demonstrate the character's versatility and resilience in Supernatural. Collins' commitment to crafting complex characters like Lucifer, as well as his skill in portraying volatile beings such as the Cosmic Entity, offer fans a wide range of performances to enjoy. Ultimately, Supernatural provides Collins and fans alike with the opportunity to appreciate and question different characters, enhancing the show and its storylines.

Editor's P/S

As a Supernatural fan, I have always admired Misha Collins' acting skills and the depth he brings to each character he portrays. His portrayal of Castiel, in particular, has been a standout performance throughout the series. Castiel's journey from a powerful angel to a vulnerable and compassionate being has been captivating, and Collins has effortlessly conveyed the character's struggles and growth.

One of my favorite Castiel moments is in the season 4 episode "The Monster at the End of This Book," where Castiel sacrifices himself to save Dean. This scene is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, as it showcases the strength of Castiel's bond with Dean and his willingness to do whatever it takes to protect him. Collins' portrayal of Castiel's inner conflict and ultimate sacrifice is truly remarkable.

Overall, Misha Collins' performances on Supernatural have been a highlight of the series, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have witnessed his talent.