The Unbelievable Number of Dean's Deaths in Supernatural Revealed

Summary

Dean Winchester dies a whopping 111 times in Supernatural, with the majority of those coming in one episode.

Dean frequently meets his demise as an act of selflessness to protect Sam, dear ones, or the greater good, showcasing his willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice.

The culmination of Season 3 presents Dean's most impactful demise, gruesomely torn apart by hellhounds, intensifying the emotional weight and casting uncertainty upon his resurrection.

Even for Supernatural, a show notorious for resurrecting characters, the frequency at which Dean Winchester dies and comes back to life is astonishing. This has led fans to question just how many times Dean dies in the series. Over the course of 15 seasons, both Dean and his brother Sam Winchester meet death on multiple occasions, often being revived by higher powers. Despite the inherent risks that come with their dangerous jobs, the Winchester brothers play vital roles on a grand cosmic scale. In the supernatural realm, Dean dies a staggering 111 times.

Out of these deaths, 11 are witnessed onscreen within a single episode, while the remaining eight occur throughout the series. Among his most significant deaths, Dean is torn apart by hellhounds, stabbed by Metatron, and impaled by vampires. On other occasions, Dean willingly takes his own life to communicate with otherworldly entities such as Death or his reapers. It's important to note that this death count does not even include deaths in alternate realities. Nearly all of Dean's deaths are motivated by his desire to protect and save Sam, his loved ones, and humanity at large. From the beginning, it is evident that Dean's readiness to sacrifice his life is a recurring theme. Ultimately, his final death is peaceful as he imparts to Sam, "Always keep fighting."

Season 3, Episode 11, "Mystery Spot"

Dean experiences a series of deaths in Supernatural, starting with his first death caused by the Trickster's time loop. In episode 11 of season 3, titled "Mystery Spot," Dean endures numerous fatal incidents such as being shot, hit by a car, crushed by a falling desk, shot with an arrow, mauled by a dog, and electrocuted. Additionally, he chokes on a sausage, suffers from food poisoning due to a bad taco, falls in the shower, and is unintentionally killed by an ax during a struggle with his brother Sam.

This initial death in "Mystery Spot" serves as a foreshadowing of future events in season 3. Following Dean's shooting by a mugger in a parking lot, Sam embarks on a six-month search for the Trickster, desperate to bring his brother back to life. Eventually, Sam succeeds, although the Trickster admonishes him, urging him to let go of Dean. The Trickster warns that the brothers' constant sacrifices for each other will only result in pain.

Season 3, Episode 16, "No Rest for the Wicked"

The Trickster is eventually revealed to be none other than Gabriel, the archangel. Gabriel appears to be actively trying to prevent Sam from making critical errors that could ultimately lead to the apocalypse. His concern proves to be valid. Following Dean's death in the Season 3 finale of Supernatural, Sam falls back into the same destructive pattern he experienced during the time loop. He becomes determined to go to any extent necessary to rescue Dean. During the four months that Dean remains deceased, Sam resorts to drinking demon blood and becomes dependent on the demon Ruby. Although Gabriel likely possesses knowledge of the future, he is unable to avert these events.

Dean experiences his first "permanent" demise in season 3, episode 16 titled "No Rest for the Wicked." In this heartbreaking moment, he is mercilessly torn apart by hellhounds who then brutally drag him down to the depths of Hell. It is crucial to note that Dean's untimely demise is a direct consequence of a crossroads deal he struck at the conclusion of season 2. In a selfless act, he pledged his own life in exchange for his brother Sam's safety. Sadly, this pact granted Dean a mere year of existence before the fearsome demon Lilith arrived to claim his soul. Despite Sam's valiant efforts, the deal proved unbreakable, and Dean's tragic departure occurred on May 2, 2008. However, as is customary in the Supernatural realm, death is often not a definitive end. Merely four months later, Dean miraculously found himself resurrected by the angelic entity known as Castiel.

Season 5, Episode 16, "Dark Side of the Moon"

In season 5, episode 16 titled "Dark Side of the Moon," Dean meets his next demise at the hands of vengeful hunters Roy and Walt. Seeking revenge for Sam's role in starting the apocalypse, the duo tracks down the Winchester brothers and successfully kills Sam. In fear of retribution, they are left with no choice but to shoot Dean as well when he identifies them. Before his death, Dean warns the hunters that he will seek revenge, declaring, "When I come back, I'm gonna be pissed."

Dean's unwavering belief in his inability to die is later confirmed by Ash, who discloses that Sam and Dean Winchester have died multiple times. According to Ash, the angels consistently resurrect them while erasing their memories of Heaven. Following this pattern, Dean and Sam are resurrected by the angel Joshua, who retains their memories this time. However, he delivers the unfortunate news that God will not assist in preventing the apocalypse.

Season 6, Episode 11, "Appointment in Samarra"

By season 6, Dean has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to Sam's safety, leading to his eventual demise while attempting to save his brother once again. Upon discovering that Sam has been resurrected without his soul, Dean becomes determined to find a solution to retrieve it from hell. In a desperate attempt to convince Death to assist him in this mission, Dean undergoes a temporary death in season 6, episode 11, titled "Appointment in Samarra," in order to hold a conversation with Death. Assisted by Dr. Roberts, an acquaintance of their late father John Winchester, Dean receives an injection that halts his heart, with the intention of restarting it three minutes later. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Dean is revived seven minutes later, most likely with some assistance from Death himself.

Season 9, Episode 23, "Do You Believe in Miracles?"

Dean's demise in the season 9 finale holds more weight compared to other deaths in the series, some of which are clearly temporary or portrayed for comedic effect. Similar to his death in season 3, his demise this time is caused by a formidable enemy who is determined to eliminate him permanently. During the season finale, Sam, Dean, and Castiel join forces to confront Metatron, an exceptionally powerful angel. It becomes evident that Dean, bearing the Mark of Cain and possessing the ability to wield the First Blade, is the sole individual capable of taking down this adversary.

Even with his powers heightened, Dean is no match for Metatron. The fight comes to a devastating end when Metatron impales Dean with an angel blade, piercing his chest. In Dean's mind, his death in Supernatural is viewed as the best outcome. He urges Sam to let him go, as he feels that the Mark of Cain is transforming him into someone he dislikes. Unfortunately, the Mark refuses to release its grip on Dean. However, with assistance from Crowley, Dean is resurrected as a demon, leaving the season on an intense cliffhanger.

Season 11, Episode 17, "Red Meat"

In season 11, a specific reaper named Billie takes charge of the reapers after Death's departure. Billie delivers the news to Sam and Dean that their immortality has come to an end. She warns them that their upcoming death will be their final one. Staying true to his character, Dean chooses a self-inflicted death as his next move. In episode 17 of season 11, titled "Red Meat," Dean purposefully overdoses to communicate with Billie, pleading for her assistance in saving Sam from an unexpected demise. Despite Dean's efforts being in vain since Sam remains alive, Billie persists in her plan to reap Dean. However, Dean manages to narrowly escape the clutches of the Empty when a doctor resuscitates him.

Season 12, Episode 9, "First Blood"

Billie makes another appearance in season 12, episode 9 titled "First Blood." In this episode, Dean and Sam find themselves held captive by the U.S. Secret Service at a military black site. Their chances of escape seem slim, but they reach an agreement with Billie. She agrees to kill and bring them back to life once, enabling them to break free. However, in return, Billie demands the permanent reaping of one of the Winchester brothers. Surprisingly, Dean and Sam die, leaving the military personnel puzzled. Subsequently, the boys regain consciousness in the morgue, resurrected and ready to make their escape. When the time for reaping arrives, Mary Winchester, their mother, volunteers herself. Billie accepts the arrangement but is betrayed by Castiel, who intervenes and prevents any harm befalling the Winchesters.

Season 13, Episode 5, "Advanced Thanatology"

After experiencing multiple resurrections and two carefully planned resuscitations, Dean has come to the realization that taking his own life provides a unique opportunity to communicate with entities existing beyond the veil. In season 13, episode 15 of the show titled "Advanced Thanatology," the Winchesters confront an army of restless spirits. It is during this time that Dean suggests temporarily ceasing his heart's beating in order to gather essential information. Despite Sam's vehement objections, labeling the decision as an "incredibly risky undertaking," Dean proceeds with his proposed course of action. This display of self-sacrifice not only demonstrates Dean's willingness to endanger himself, but also alludes to the underlying suicidal tendencies that have consistently manifested within his complex character throughout the series. As Dean breathes his last breath, he unexpectedly finds himself face to face with Billie, who has assumed the role of Death.

During their conversation, Billie reveals that Dean harbors a desire to embrace death, an accusation he remains silent upon. Grief overpowers Dean after the demise of Castiel and Mary, engulfing him completely. While conversing with Billie, he utters, "It holds no significance. I hold no significance." The episode concludes on a sorrowful tone. Billie leaves Dean with an enigmatic message, emphasizing that his time has not yet arrived as she resurrects him, compelling him to persevere. In a subsequent discussion with Sam, Dean confesses his dwindling belief in the importance of their actions, uncertain if he can sustain the fight.

Season 15, Episode 20, "Carry On"

When the final season of Supernatural was announced, there were speculations about the series finale involving the demise of either Sam or Dean Winchester – or perhaps both. After countless years of battling evil, it appeared that there was only one possible outcome for the story's conclusion. This notion proved to be true for Dean, as he met his end in the series finale when a piece of rebar impaled him. It was a humiliating demise that sparked anger among many fans – how could Dean be taken down by a random metal hook after surviving encounters with archangels? Yet, in a way, it was fitting. Hunting supernatural creatures is the sole existence Dean has ever known, and he has expressed his desire to go down fighting on multiple occasions.

In Supernatural season 8, Episode 14, "Trial and Error," Dean expressed his belief that there was no future for him beyond hunting, stating that he would meet his end with a gun in his hand. Despite Dean's pessimism, Sam held onto hope for a happy ending. To protect Sam's dream, Dean vowed to do everything in his power. "I want you to have a life," he declared. "A life with a loving partner, children, and even grandchildren...That is my idea of a perfect ending, and it's the only one I will accept." Sam made the decision to retire from hunting and found love, eventually getting married and starting a family. In the end, the brothers were reunited in Heaven, where they were able to live peacefully alongside their loved ones and cherished friends.

Alternate Reality Deaths And Close Calls

In addition, here are some other near-deaths Dean experiences in Supernatural:

Season 4, Episode 15, "Death Takes a Holiday" – Pamela kills Dean and Sam as a means for them to witness reapers and safeguard a seal from getting shattered.

Season 5, Episode 4, "The End" – In this episode, Lucifer, taking control of Sam's body, snaps Dean's neck, showcasing a glimpse of the future.

In Season 7, Episode 23 titled "Survival of the Fittest," Dean and Castiel find themselves transported to Purgatory following their encounter with Dick Roman.

Moving on to Season 15, Episodes 9 and 10 named "The Trap" and "The Heroes' Journey," Sam experiences disturbing visions of alternate realities, linked to his connection with Chuck. These visions depict different scenarios where Sam is the cause of Dean's death. In one reality, Sam, fueled by the power of demon blood, snaps Dean's neck. In another, Dean is set on fire by a Sam possessed by Lucifer.

The Best Dean Death In Supernatural

With Dean experiencing a multitude of deaths, it becomes increasingly challenging to compare them all. However, this excessive demise also grants us the opportunity to identify the truly remarkable ones. A notable drawback of Supernatural's consistent portrayal of the Winchester brothers meeting their demise is that, over time, the emotional impact diminishes significantly. Consequently, Dean's most compelling death arguably resides in his initial "official" demise during the gripping season 3 finale.

Who Else Died More Than Once On Supernatural?

The image of Dean being ripped apart by unseen Hellhounds is undeniably powerful and evocative. This pivotal moment holds deep significance for both brothers, leaving Jared Padalecki to deliver a heartfelt performance as he mourns Dean's lifeless body. The uncertain fate of Dean adds an element of suspense that sets this death apart from any other. Far from being a fleeting moment, the profound tragedy of this scene solidifies it as Dean's most impactful demise in Supernatural, without a doubt.

Dean Winchester isn't the only one who dies multiple times in Supernatural. When it comes to the number of deaths, no one even comes close to Dean. However, dying and returning from the dead is a recurring theme in Supernatural throughout its entire run. Sam Winchester also dies multiple times in the show - a total of eight times. Although this falls far short of Dean's staggering 111 deaths, it is the same number of deaths that Dean experiences, excluding those caused by the Trickster.

Castiel, an angel, was a prominent character in the show despite experiencing multiple deaths. In Supernatural, he died six times, just two fewer times than Sam and Dean Winchester. Castiel's repeated deaths eventually exhausted God, who had resurrected him after being killed by Raphael, Lucifer, and the Leviathans. However, Gadreel and Jack managed to reverse his next three deaths caused by a rogue reaper, Lucifer, and an alternate Castiel. In the Castiel vs. Castiel fight, the alternate Castiel perished and remained dead.

Bobby Singer's death was one of the most heart-wrenching moments on the show. He returned as a ghost but eventually found his place in Heaven, patiently waiting for Dean's arrival in the finale. However, this was Bobby's fourth death in total. His deaths included being killed by Lucifer in an alternate future and being slain by Dick Roman. Although Castiel brought him back once, Bobby's final death was permanent. Other notable deaths on Supernatural included John Winchester (3 times), Mary Winchester (3 times), Zachariah (3 times), and Charlie (3 times). Crowley, Adam Milligan, and Rowena each faced death twice throughout the series.