Supernatural has been on TV lengthy sufficient that it is one of some at the moment airing scripted exhibits whose productions have twice been affected by actual world occasions. First, the present’s wonderful third season was dramatically shortened by the 2007-08 writers’ strike, after which its fifteenth and closing season was compelled to halt manufacturing in March because the coronavirus swept the world over. However all through this wild experience, the collection has continued to inform attention-grabbing, surprising, and emotional tales.
Now, as we put together to say goodbye to Sam and Dean Winchester (Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles) for good, TV Information is remembering the very best episodes of the long-running present. The listing has been restricted to a few episodes per season, which proved to be troublesome, because the early seasons had far too many nice episodes, whereas a few of the latter had too few. However we really feel assured that every episode chosen represents a few of the present’s highest work, whether or not it is a artistic journey that reveals the present’s capacity to suppose exterior the field, a standalone hour that delivers the laughs, or a mythology-heavy episode that pushes the story ahead. These are the very best episodes of Supernatural every season.
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Season 1
“Scarecrow” (Season 1, Episode 11)
Whereas we love the meta masterpiece a few author feuding along with his creations that Supernatural has develop into, we nonetheless have an enormous delicate spot for the extra easy horror episodes like “Scarecrow,” which tells a comparatively easy story a few Norse god that manifests within the type of a scarecrow made out of human pores and skin (yikes!). Possibly it is as a result of I grew up surrounded by cornfields, however even all of those years later I nonetheless keep in mind “Scarecrow” as one of many episodes that frightened me essentially the most. Plus, that cliffhanger reveal that Meg (Nicki Aycox) is a demon? That could be a basic Supernatural second proper there. –Sadie Gennis
“Religion” (Season 1, Episode 12)
One of many nice early episodes to ascertain the believer-and-skeptic dynamic between Sam and Dean, “Religion” explored the thought of spirituality after Dean was practically killed by a Rawhead and was given weeks to dwell. With no different choices, Sam introduced Dean to a touring religion healer to treatment him of his demise sentence, the place he was magically cured. Naturally, the boys examine and discover {that a} managed Reaper is concerned, and naturally, the Reaper will get set free and tries to kill everybody. The thriller of the investigation penned by Sera Gamble and Raelle Tucker was bolstered by an actual eerie ambiance created by director Allan Kroeker, and “Religion” options TV’s best on-the-nose tune choice in a pitch-perfect montage to Blue Oyster Cult’s “(Do not Concern) The Reaper,” persevering with creator Eric Kripke‘s monitor file of figuring out how and when to rock. (Notice: As a consequence of licensing, Netflix’s model does not embody the tune, so simply throw it out the window.) –Tim Surette
“The Benders” (Season 1, Episode 15)
When it first debuted, Supernatural leaned onerous into its horror roots, and the scariest episode of the show’s entire run is that this Season 1 episode by which the baddies of the week prove to not be of the supernatural selection in any respect, however bloodthirsty people who seize and hunt different people for sport. The episode performs with conventional horror themes, but it surely additionally flips our preconceived notions concerning the style on its head as a younger feminine youngster is discovered to be a prepared participant within the household’s bloodlust and never one other sufferer. When confronted with the information that women and men are simply as able to committing heinous evil acts because the monsters and demons the Winchesters normally face, we (they usually) are compelled to acknowledge an unlucky fact about humanity whereas realizing our world is terrifying sufficient by itself with out the addition of the supernatural. It is this chilling legacy that not solely makes “The Benders” one of many scariest episodes of the present, however probably the greatest and most memorable as effectively. –Kaitlin Thomas
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Season 2
“Croatoan” (Season 2, Episode 9)
“Croatoan” was the episode of Supernatural by which the storytelling went from good to nice. Not solely did the hour clarify a real-life historic thriller (the place did the folks of Roanoke go?), however the Season 2 episode was an extremely character-driven one. As Sam and Dean struggled to outlive in a city contaminated by a demonic virus, it pushed them to their restrict, forcing them to confront the traces they have been prepared to cross of their mission to catch Yellow Eyes (Fredric Lehne). And when Sam proved to be resistant to the virus, it compelled the brothers to confront the reality about Sam and his mysterious skills. –Lindsay MacDonald
“Hollywood Babylon” (Season 2, Episode 18)
Some folks watch Supernatural for the horror, some look ahead to the dynamic relationship between Sam and Dean, some watch to see how the destiny of the world shakes out. I watch it for the piss-taking of the leisure enterprise. Supernatural‘s first main meta episode noticed Sam and Dean head to Los Angeles to research a homicide on a film set, however extra importantly, confirmed Jared Padalecki acknowledging the Gilmore Girls set on a studio tour and climate that was very Canadian, in response to Sam. There was the same old burning of bones and such, however the twisty script was held up by all of the winky-winks concerning the soul-sucking expertise of working in Hollywood and Dean’s love of craft companies. It might function a blueprint for a lot of of Supernatural‘s finest self-parodying episodes to come back. –Tim Surette
“All Hell Breaks Free, Half 2” (Season 2, Episode 22)
The primary half of the Season 2 finale is remembered for being the primary occasion of one of many Winchesters dying, but it surely’s when all hell breaks free — to borrow from the episode’s title — within the second hour that Supernatural revealed what it was really able to. Dean sells his soul to a crossroads demon in change for Sam’s resurrection, however he solely will get one 12 months as an alternative of 10 earlier than he is dragged to Hell, so although they efficiently kill the Yellow-Eyed Demon, who’s been haunting all of them their lives (with an help from the soul of John Winchester [Jeffrey Dean Morgan] and the Colt, after all), the material of Supernatural was modified perpetually in lower than hour. Trying again on the present’s legacy, the codependency of the brothers has sometimes been unhealthy and death has often felt meaningless, however on the time, Sam’s stunning demise and Dean’s willingness to sacrifice himself for his brother was the present’s excessive level, each when it comes to the characters and the story. The third season can be spent with the information of Dean’s deal hanging over the brothers’ heads, creating an inescapable however unseen menace and resulting in a few of the finest tales the present ever instructed. –Kaitlin Thomas
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Season 3
“Thriller Spot” (Season 3, Episode 11)
Supernatural‘s most memorable episodes generally current themselves as humorous, standalone hours, and Season 3’s “Thriller Spot,” which finds Sam and Dean trapped in an infinite time loop by the Trickster (Richard Speight Jr.), has its fair proportion of comedy. However with every of Dean’s many deaths — and with Sam unable to stop or cease each — the awful lesson of the hour turns into abundantly clear: It isn’t simply that Dean’s demise is inevitable and there is nothing anybody can do to cease it, however that Dean is Sam’s weak point (and vice versa), and there are many demons and monsters who will attempt to exploit this. Regardless of the underlying theme, “Thriller Spot” stays one among Supernatural‘s most rewatchable episodes, because the writers discovered new and attention-grabbing methods for Dean to die (“Do these tacos style humorous to you?”) and have been in a position to inject loads of humor into the darkish material, one thing that will proceed for years to come back. Supernatural has had a variety of episodes that rapidly turned instantaneous classics, and “Thriller Spot” is unquestionably one among them. –Kaitlin Thomas
“Ghostfacers” (Season 3, Episode 13)
Supernatural likes to experiment with out-there storytelling units, and Season 3’s “Ghostfacers” did that and extra by presenting practically the whole episode as discovered footage. It was mainly Supernatural‘s tackle The Blair Witch Project, besides as an alternative of terrified teenagers, we acquired a bumbling band of wannabe ghost hunters (led by A.J. Buckley and Travis Wester) who ultimately turned fan-favorite characters that will proceed to pop up right here and there, proper when the present wanted a dose of humor. “Ghostfacers” is one other one of many episodes followers can watch 1,000,000 occasions and by no means get sick of. –Lindsay MacDonald
“No Relaxation for the Depraved” (Season 3, Episode 16)
The Season Three finale will certainly go down in historical past as one among Supernatural‘s finest — and that is saying one thing, as a result of this present is aware of how one can craft an beautiful finale. Even after the writers have been compelled right into a shorter season on account of the 2007-08 writers’ strike, the finale managed to repay the season’s important storyline by killing Dean and sending him to Hell because the cost for promoting his soul to save lots of Sam in Season 2. Though all of us knew what was coming, “No Relaxation for the Depraved” stored us believing up till the ultimate second that Dean may slip the online and get out of his deal, making the closing shot of him being tortured in Hell an much more {powerful} cliffhanger. –Lindsay MacDonald
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Season 4
“Lazarus Rising” (Season 4, Episode 1)
After an superior ending to Season Three that noticed Dean dragged to Hell, the Season Four premiere needed to attain an extremely excessive bar to launch Supernatural into a brand new, equally compelling chapter, and holy cow, did it just do that. “Lazarus Rising” marks the introduction of angels into the collection’ already engrossing mythology, thus kicking off the angels and demons storyline, which many followers have discovered to be the very best in Supernatural‘s lengthy historical past. Most notably, although, “Lazarus Rising” launched us to Misha Collins‘ angel Castiel, who would go on to develop into a lifetime member of Workforce Free Will, and actually, that alone makes this one of many collection’ finest episodes. –Lindsay MacDonald
“The Monster on the Finish of This Ebook” (Season 4, Episode 18)
The introduction of Rob Benedict‘s prophet Chuck Shurley, the person who would later be revealed to be God, added one other advanced layer to Supernatural‘s ever-deepening mythology whereas concurrently introducing one among its best meta jokes: the Supernatural books about Sam and Dean’s adventures and thus, Supernatural followers. The present has all the time been at its finest when it is poking enjoyable at itself and the character of its story. Creator Eric Kripke inserting himself into the collection on this means is among the present’s most entertaining ongoing jokes — particularly when Chuck acknowledges the ridiculous and egotistical nature of a author doing this, or when the pen title for Chuck is Carver Edlund, after Supernatural writers and producers Jeremy Carver and Ben Edlund. However what begins out as a hilariously good time — Dean referencing “Sam ladies” and “Dean ladies” and Sam explaining slash fiction won’t ever not be a excessive level, proper alongside the dig at “Bugs” — turns right into a terrifyingly darkish chapter within the Winchesters’ lives, as they need to face the likelihood they could by no means have had free will and all the pieces about their lives has been destined from the beginning. –Kaitlin Thomas
“Lucifer Rising” (Season 4, Episode 22)
We have stated it earlier than, and I am going to say it once more: Man, does this present know how one can ship an epic season finale. With the brothers divided after a vicious struggle, Sam and Dean put together to cease the apocalypse in their very own distinctive methods — Sam with the assistance of the demon Ruby (Genevieve Padalecki), and Dean with angels Castiel and Zachariah (Kurt Fuller). Solely, every brother realizes too late that they’ve been manipulated by their respective “allies,” and Sam unwittingly breaks the ultimate seal when he kills Lilith (Katherine Boecher). We’re so used to seeing Sam and Dean because the heroes that the twist that Sam is definitely the one who frees Lucifer (Mark Pellegrino) and kickstarts the apocalypse is simply too devastating to not savor. –Sadie Gennis
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Season 5
“Altering Channels” (Season 5, Episode 8)
This may occasionally ruffle the feathers of some Supernatural superfans, however it’s my opinion that “Altering Channels” was the height of Supernatural. That’s to say, the present was by no means higher than it was on this one episode. I do know, controversial. But in addition appropriate. Set within the entrance half of Supernatural‘s closing season beneath creator Eric Kripke’s five-season imaginative and prescient, “Altering Channels” was Supernatural testing the bounds of how meta it might go when Sam and Dean discovered themselves in varied TV exhibits whereas taking part in one of many Trickster’s video games. It featured the greatest intro sequence of the show’s run, full parodies of the collection’ real-world time slot rivals in Grey’s Anatomy and CSI, and Jared taking one to the crotch. However what may get misplaced in your reminiscence is that “Altering Channels” additionally featured a few of the season’s greatest reveals: that the Trickster was really the Archangel Gabriel, and that Sam and Dean needed to “play their roles” within the coming apocalypse, pitting them in opposition to one another like by no means earlier than (and by no means since). Like in the very best Supernatural episodes, the enjoyable rapidly turned to terror because the season’s plot continued to take form. –Tim Surette
“Abandon All Hope…” (Season 5, Episode 10)
Within the Season 5 midseason finale, the Winchesters’ hunt for the Colt results in their first encounter with Crowley (Mark Sheppard), the demon you do not even like to hate, you simply plain love. Crowley’s entrance into Supernatural contains all the pieces that makes his character so nice: his capacity to plan 5 steps forward, his full lack of scruples, and his signature sardonic wit. However “Abandon All Hope…” is not simply such a unbelievable episode as a result of it gave us a personality as beloved as Crowley. What actually units this episode aside is Sam, Dean, Bobby (Jim Beaver), Castiel, Ellen (Samantha Ferris), and Jo’s (Alona Tal) journey to seek out Lucifer. This battle with the Satan does not finish effectively for our heroes, who not solely aren’t in a position to cease Lucifer from summoning Dying (Julian Richings), however who additionally lose Ellen and Jo within the course of. From moments of biting comedy to heart-pounding suspense to gut-wrenching grief, this episode has a little bit little bit of all the pieces we love about Supernatural. –Sadie Gennis
“Swan Track” (Season 5, Episode 22)
Any listing of finest episodes is incomplete with out Supernatural‘s unforgettable Season 5 finale, which concluded creator Eric Kripke’s authentic storyline and would have been the collection finale if the present hadn’t been renewed by The CW. There have been deaths and resurrections and even the beautiful implication that Chuck is God (which would not be formally confirmed till Season 11). However what actually makes this episode particular is how fantastically it highlights Sam and Dean’s shut however sophisticated bond, finest illustrated when Sam — triggered by poignant recollections with Dean — overpowers Lucifer lengthy sufficient to sacrifice himself, together with Michael in Adam’s (Jake Abel) physique, with a purpose to save his older brother and the remainder of the world. And whereas the ending is not excellent, it does provide up “closure” with Dean taking over a standard life along with his girlfriend, Lisa (Cindy Sampson), and her son as Sam seems on from the skin. –Keisha Hatchett
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Season 6
“Appointment in Samarra” (Season 6, Episode 11)
There is a recurring trope in Supernatural by which somebody tries to show one or each of the Winchesters a bleak however worthwhile lesson by forcing them into a fairly gnarly situation (see: “Thriller Spot”). The same factor occurs in “Appointment in Samarra” when Dean strikes a take care of Dying: Dean will take over as Dying for in the future in change for Dying returning Sam’s soul. At first, Dean does his job of reaping souls, however relating to a sick youngster he refuses. Because of this, the woman miraculously heals, setting off a sequence response of a number of deaths that will have been averted had Dean not spared the kid. Ultimately, Dean lastly realizes that you would be able to’t cheat demise and returns to the hospital to reap the woman. Though the episode does finish with Sam getting his soul again, the worth of this “win” is an instance of what Supernatural does finest — telling a narrative a few household who sees simply how unfair life could be, however who continues to struggle for a greater world even when the percentages are stacked in opposition to them. –Sadie Gennis
“The French Mistake” (Season 6, Episode 15)
Although Supernatural acknowledged itself in Season 4’s “The Monster on the Finish of This Ebook,” Season 6’s “The French Mistake” went full ham on self-referencing, teleporting Sam and Dean to a world by which they have been Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles, actors within the TV present Supernatural. Ben Edlund’s script spared nobody concerned within the present, poking enjoyable at Jared and Jensen (“Why would anybody wish to watch our lives?”), portraying Misha Collins as a tweet-obsessed hippie who simply needed to be accepted by “J-Squared,” and killing off Misha, Eric Kripke, and Robert Singer. For some followers it was an excessive amount of — to these followers I say take a chill capsule — however this was the present on the peak of its recognition on the time, and the end result wasn’t Supernatural patting itself on the again, it was a love letter to its followers, a thanks to the media who coated the present (a reporter asking Sam to “embody the query in your reply” may be very inside baseball), and recognition that it was simply glad to be on the air. –Tim Surette
“The Man Who Would Be King” (Season 6, Episode 20)
Castiel has stumbled many occasions in his journey from loyal soldier of heaven to full-fledged member of Workforce Free Will, and “The Man Who Would Be King” is the present’s finest exploration of Cas’ devastating disaster of religion. All through the episode, we hear Castiel having a one-sided dialog with God — asking for steering and recounting moments from his previous, together with turning factors in his relationship with Sam and Dean — all of the whereas he plots with Crowley within the current day with out the Winchesters’ information. By leaping between the 2 timelines, it turns into simple to know not solely how Cas was in a position to justify his present-day actions however simply how a lot he wanted to consider he was working towards a righteous trigger after being deserted by God. Did I like when Castiel ultimately went full egomaniac and declared himself the brand new God? After all not. However this deep dive into Castiel’s psyche is an enchanting have a look at one of many present’s finest characters. –Sadie Gennis
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Season 7
“Season Seven, Time for a Marriage ceremony!” (Season 7, Episode 8)
In a season full of extra Winchester losses than we are able to abdomen, this enjoyable standalone episode actually stands proud. Not solely is it the primary time we meet the laid-back hunter Garth (DJ Qualls) on-screen, but it surely additionally delivers some really stand-out moments as Dean tries (and fails) to wrap his head round Sam agreeing to marry Supernatural superfan Becky Rosen (Emily Perkins). However even with the hour’s deal with humor — which is among the present’s finest qualities — the collection nonetheless delivers a formidable villain in Man (Leslie Odom Jr.) and even offers Becky a second to shine as extra than simply an obsessive fangirl. –Keisha Hatchett
“Dying’s Door” (Season 7, Episode 10)
Over the course of the collection, Jim Beaver’s Bobby Singer turned such a staple of the present that watching this Season 7 episode is bodily painful generally. Not solely did “Dying’s Door” give us extra perception into Bobby’s character and his previous — as each a hunter and as a surrogate father to Sam and Dean — it completely wrecked our emotions by killing him off in essentially the most emotional means doable: fatally shot by Dick Roman (James Patrick Stuart), with the boys being unable to save lots of him. And positive, demise is not all the time a everlasting factor on this present — actually, we have seen Bobby, or not less than varied variations of him, just a few occasions since — however the emotional trauma it causes positive as hell is. –Lindsay MacDonald
“The Woman With the Dungeons and Dragons Tattoo” (Season 7, Episode 20)
Look, Season 7 is nobody’s favourite season of Supernatural, but it surely does have its moments. A type of being the introduction of Charlie (Felicia Day). The tenacious hacker has develop into one of many collection’ most beloved recurring characters, and you’ll see why on this episode. There actually is not one other character like Charlie on this world, and so when she groups up with the Winchesters in opposition to the Leviathans in “The Woman with the Dungeons and Dragons Tattoo” it seems like a welcome break from the everyday routine. However casting real-life geek icon Day as Charlie was the true genius transfer right here, because the actress brings such an infectious pleasure to the position that we won’t assist however be overwhelmingly grateful that Charlie finally modifications her thoughts about by no means speaking to the Winchesters once more. –Sadie Gennis
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Season 8
“As Time Goes By” (Season 8, Episode 12)
When John Winchester’s father, Henry Winchester (Gil McKinney), time-traveled to the longer term, met his hunter grandsons, and launched us to the Males of Letters in Season 8’s “As Time Goes By,” we had no concept how necessary the group and its bunker would in the future develop into to the present. At a time when the present and its premise have been starting to develop a little bit stale, the Males of Letters breathed new life into it, introducing one other layer to the deep mythology and monster-hunting parts of the collection, whereas additionally revealing that John’s father did not abandon him like he’d all the time thought. It additionally gave Sam and Dean their first actual residence, which suggests so much to 2 guys who’ve spent their complete lives on the street. To not point out, “As Time Goes By” launched us to Abaddon (Alaina Huffman), who was a fairly superior villain, so far as demons go. –Lindsay MacDonald
“Pac-Man Fever” (Season 8, Episode 20)
For those who’ve ever needed to see Dean and Charlie do a basic makeover montage to “Strolling on Sunshine,” that is in all probability your favourite Supernatural episode. And even if you happen to did not dream of that second, you continue to in all probability love “Pac-Man Fever” as a result of it is a lot greater than a geeky Charlie journey (not that there is something incorrect with these episodes both). With Sam nonetheless struggling after the second trial, Dean decides to tackle Charlie as a hunter-in-training. However after a djinn traps Charlie in a recurring nightmare set inside a online game, Dean should assist Charlie let go of her fears and face her previous (and kill some communist vampires alongside the best way). Whereas some monster-of-the-week tales play out within the background with no actual ties to the emotional core of the collection, “Pac-Man Fever” is a superb instance of what these monsters can do when used correctly: reveal new layers to our favourite characters that we had beforehand by no means imagined. –Sadie Gennis
“Sacrifice” (Season 8, Episode 23)
You’ll be able to all the time depend on a Supernatural season finale to ship the products, and this episode, which closed out the revitalizing Season 8, does simply that. From Crowley’s desperation after being tricked and captured by the Winchesters to Sam enduring a brutal collection of trials to shut the gates of Hell for good to Metatron (Curtis Armstrong) betraying Cas and draining him of his grace for a spell, “Sacrifice” definitely lives as much as its title. But it surely’s the spectacularly lovely however devastating closing photos of angels falling from Heaven on account of Metatron’s plan whereas Sam, Dean, and a newly human Cas helplessly look on that stays with you. –Keisha Hatchett
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Season 9
“Holy Terror” (Season 9, Episode 9)
Season 9’s “Holy Terror” initially stands out for having one of many present’s most memorable episode openings ever: A busload of church singers stroll right into a bar, whip out their angel-killing blades, and slaughter everybody inside earlier than strolling out coated in blood and going about their day like nothing has occurred. From there, the hour solely will get extra jarring as we discover out that not solely is Ezekiel (Tahmoh Penikett) really an angel named Gadreel, however he double-crosses Dean by taking full management of Sam’s physique and even killing Kevin Tran (Osric Chau). What a visit. –Keisha Hatchett
“First Born” (Season 9, Episode 11)
Supernatural dug deep into biblical mythology for Season 9’s “First Born,” and assembly Cain (Timothy Omundson) was fairly subsequent degree. The “actual story” of Cain — that he made a take care of Lucifer to save lots of his brother’s soul, on the situation that he killed Abel himself — evoked all these outdated emotions from the early days of Supernatural, when Sam and Dean could not cease falling over themselves to promote their souls for one another. This episode was proof that regardless of how removed from Eric Kripke’s authentic five-season arc Supernatural will get, it is going to all the time be about cohesion. –Lindsay MacDonald
“King of the Damned” (Season 9, Episode 21)
Supernatural will all the time be the story of the Winchesters — Sam and Dean are what retains us tuning in week after week — however there is no means the collection would have lasted 15 seasons with out its ensemble of fascinating supporting characters. That is why we love episodes like “King of the Damned,” which places the highlight on one of many present’s finest recurring figures: Crowley. When Abaddon brings his son, Gavin (Theo Devaney), into the current day, Crowley turns into torn between his survival instincts and his newly found paternal instincts. It isn’t like Crowley is ever going to be named Father of the Yr, but it surely was enjoyable to see Crowley do one thing on this episode that we had by no means seen him do earlier than: care about somebody aside from himself. –Sadie Gennis
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Season 10
“Fan Fiction” (Season 10, Episode 5)
To have fun the present’s 200th episode, Supernatural staged a musical episode that includes songs like the unique and hard-to-forget “A Single Man Tear” and a stunning Lease-esque rendition of the present’s unofficial theme tune “Carry On Wayward Son.” Much like a few of the present’s different nice episodes, “Fan Fiction” pokes enjoyable on the present itself, its bromance, and its emotionally manipulative narrative beats, but it surely does so whereas additionally acknowledging the significance of the present’s longtime followers, with out whom the present couldn’t survive. As an alternative of mocking fan fiction — which was a fear for some followers earlier than the episode aired — the hour is a celebration and love letter to it and the individuals who have interaction with it, as if to say there’s room for everybody within the pool. Though Sam has some enjoyable with Destiel, it by no means feels malicious. There are additionally loads of references to earlier episodes, like the looks of Adam, whom the present had ignored because the finish of Season 5, and the return of Chuck within the hour’s closing moments, which appears to substantiate what everybody had lengthy suspected: that he’s God. However the very best second of the whole episode may really be Dean’s preliminary insistence that “there isn’t a singing in Supernatural,” particularly as a result of by the tip, even ol’ Dean Winchester can not help however be moved whereas watching the present inside a present play out. –Kaitlin Thomas
“Hibbing 911” (Season 10, Episode 8)
Season 10’s “Hibbing 911” holds a particular place in our hearts as a result of it introduces us to a recurring fan-favorite character, the splendidly cheery sheriff Donna Hanscum (Briana Buckmaster), in wonderful vogue. The Winchesters take a step again because the hour, set at a sheriff’s retreat, focuses on Donna’s odd-couple team-up with one other beloved monster-hunting sheriff, Jody Mills (Kim Rhodes). Though Jody is initially postpone by Donna’s perky demeanor, she ultimately warms as much as her after a lifeless physique is found on the retreat and issues kick into excessive gear. Positive, Sam and Dean drop by to assist, but it surely’s the ladies who save the day and type a particular friendship that lasts all through the rest of the collection. –Keisha Hatchett
“Brother’s Keeper” (Season 10, Episode 23)
Supernatural‘s finest episodes are usually those that basically delve into Sam and Dean’s advanced relationship, and the Season 10 finale does simply that. Dean, determined to rid himself of the Mark of Cain, calls on Dying for assist in a transfer that pits him in opposition to Sam. The brothers wind up in a brutal struggle over the devastating moments which have led up to now, with Sam reminding his brother who he actually is by exhibiting him outdated household images. Ultimately, Dean chooses household (as he ought to) and kills Dying as an alternative — a transfer that will have lasting implications for the present. The episode additionally delivers one hell of a standoff between Rowena (Ruth Connell) and her son, Crowley, proving that this present actually shines brightest when twisted household dynamics are entrance and heart. –Keisha Hatchett
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Season 11
“Child” (Season 11, Episode 4)
Supernatural has by no means been afraid of experimentation and the present actually took issues in a daring new course with Season 11’s “Child.” Your complete hour, which revolved across the Winchesters’ newest demon hunt, unfolded fully from the Impala’s perspective. The episode stands out for its extremely distinctive idea whereas additionally highlighting one among the show’s most iconic figures, Dean’s beloved Child. From a candy Winchester heart-to-heart to a pair of younger valets taking the automobile for a joyride, we noticed all the pieces via Child’s eyes. The episode is not only one of the vital artistic outings of the collection, however an important tribute to the present’s best unsung hero. –Keisha Hatchett
“O Brother, The place Artwork Thou?” (Season 11, Episode 9)
Lucifer has lengthy been probably the greatest story-drivers of Supernatural, and any episode that offers us nice Lucifer and Sam content material is an episode we love, however this Season 11 episode was significantly juicy. Not solely did we get to see Lucifer within the cage, the place he was as soon as once more goofy and malicious on the similar time, however the episode additionally revealed that Sam’s “mission from God” had really been coming from Lucifer all alongside — the cage was weakened when Amara (Emily Swallow) was let loose — and was a part of his plan to flee. Is it incorrect that at this level within the collection, we really began to root for Lucifer? –Lindsay MacDonald
“Do not Name Me Shurley” (Season 11, Episode 20)
Among the best issues about long-running TV exhibits is their capacity to carry again fan-favorite characters periodically and spend high quality time with them in methods we’ve not prior to now. Supernatural has introduced a variety of folks again through the years, however one of the vital profitable examples is “Do not Name Me Shurley.” The Season 11 episode noticed the return of Rob Benedict’s prophet/Supernatural guide collection creator Chuck Shurley and eventually, formally confirmed that he was God. Whereas Sam and Dean take care of Amara’s obsession with The Mist within the episode’s B-plot, Chuck is joined by Metatron, of all folks, for a surprisingly poignant hour that finds God writing his autobiography. This framework not solely permits the present to interact in a considerate dialogue concerning the nature of storytelling (and creators writing themselves to their work), but it surely additionally offers the present a car via which to discover God as a being, in addition to the place he has been, why he deserted his creations, and why he needs to parade round in a meatsuit like Chuck as an alternative of because the omnipotent creator of life that he’s. It’s a deep character exploration that fills in some blanks and makes God really feel, effectively, human. It takes a number of balls to put in writing God into your present and never solely make him an energetic participant within the ongoing story but in addition try to clarify his actions (or lack thereof), however Supernatural would by no means have gotten to be the place it’s if it did not take these sorts of swings. And with out this episode, who is aware of what the present’s closing season might need seemed like. –Kaitlin Thomas
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Season 12
“Relating to Dean” (Season 12, Episode 11)
“Relating to Dean” is an ideal instance of Supernatural‘s capacity to hit viewers the place it hurts after they’re least anticipating it. Within the Season 12 episode, Dean is hexed by an historical household of witches and begins to overlook issues. At first it is simply minor stuff, akin to blacking out after an evening of consuming, but it surely quickly turns into obvious it is so much worse than that, and if Dean is not cured, he’ll ultimately additionally overlook how one can carry out the bodily capabilities that hold him alive. That clearly does not occur due to Rowena’s interference, however within the interim, viewers are supplied a glimpse of an easier, happier Dean, one who did not have his childhood ripped away and who does not carry the burden of saving the world over and over. This Dean is goofy. He freaks out on the sight of lifeless our bodies. He enjoys Scooby-Doo. This can be a Dean who’s harmless and carefree, but it surely’s not the Dean Winchester we all know and love, and the unlucky fact is that the world wants the Dean who’s burdened with function. Such a episode, one by which one or each of the Winchesters are compelled to confront the conventional existence they will by no means have, is not new — the present has executed them so much through the years — but it surely by no means fails to interrupt our hearts. –Kaitlin Thomas
“Caught within the Center (With You)” (Season 12, Episode 12)
This Reservoir Dogs-inspired episode, directed by Richard Speight Jr., employed all of Quentin Tarantino‘s signatures, together with irregular pacing and a killer soundtrack. And very like the enduring movie, the hour unfolds in a nonlinear means, centering on three key moments: Sam, Dean, and Cas assembly up with Mary (Samantha Smith) at a diner, their battle with the demon Ramiel, and the fallout from it within the barn by which a wounded Cas tells the Winchesters he loves them. It’s a fantastically filmed episode that stands out for its fashion whereas additionally transferring the season’s arc ahead. –Keisha Hatchett
“Girls Drink Free” (Season 12, Episode 16)
Sam and Dean wish to fake that they had no parenting expertise earlier than Jack (Alexander Calvert) got here alongside, however that’s impolite to the connection they constructed with Claire Novak (Kathryn Newton) through the years. This consistently evolving relationship is on the forefront of Season 12’s “Girls Drink Free,” when the Winchesters run into her whereas working a werewolf case. Whereas Sam is anxious that Claire has been mendacity to Jody and looking on her personal, Dean goes into full-on aggressive, protecting huge brother mode, threatening douchey bartenders who get handsy along with her. The brothers’ concern is sufficient to make your coronary heart swell, however by placing Claire at risk, the present takes a well-worn monster-of-the-week setup and turns it into one thing significant, because it places a face on the concept not each case is black and white and a few folks deserve second possibilities. The Winchesters must make a number of sophisticated selections within the present, however they by no means lose sight of what is necessary: household, each blood and located, and this episode actually drives that residence. –Kaitlin Thomas
Supernatural’s 10 Scariest Episodes of All Time
Season 13
“Misplaced and Discovered” (Season 13, Episode 1)
It is easy to see how Jack was destined to develop into such a liked member of Workforce Free Will as early as his introduction in “Misplaced and Discovered.” With little understanding of the world or how issues work, the new child nephilim struggles to regulate his powers whereas trying to find his “father”… Castiel. Though Dean is itching to slay Jack, Sam sees the great within the boy straight away and the 2 of them are in a position to begin constructing the inspiration for what hasn’t simply develop into a young friendship, however an actual household between the Winchesters and Jack. This episode additionally tugs on the heartstrings as Dean struggles along with his grief over Castiel’s demise and Mary’s disappearance, even begging Chuck to carry the angel and his mom again in a bitter prayer that goes unanswered. And critically, if you happen to did not get a little bit bit teary-eyed throughout Sam, Dean, and Jack’s funeral for Cas, Kelly (Courtney Ford), Crowley, and Mary, then we have now no selection however to evaluate you. It is nothing private, it is simply how it’s. –Sadie Gennis
“Scoobynatural” (Season 13, Episode 16)
It is a testomony to the energy of Supernatural‘s most bold episodes that “Scoobynatural,” an episode that noticed Sam, Dean, and Cas become cartoons and trapped in an episode of Scooby-Doo, may not be the present’s artistic peak. (That doubtless goes to Season 5’s “Altering Channels” or Season 6’s “The French Mistake” for sheer absurdity.) The Season 13 journey is one among the most imaginative episodes the present has ever executed, however greater than that, it proves that even within the present’s superior age, Supernatural can nonetheless steadiness the outright bizarre with considerate observations about its central characters, like when Dean’s want to protect the innocence of the Scooby Gang is proof of his personal want to flee again to a time earlier than he and his brother have been compelled into the household enterprise. Largely, although, “Scoobynatural” strengthened what we knew years in the past, which is that the present is at its finest when it has the liberty to interrupt from the constraints of stopping one more apocalypse and chortle at itself. No different present might have pulled this off, however then once more, no different present in all probability would have dreamt of it both. –Kaitlin Thomas
“Beat the Satan” (Season 13, Episode 21)
The primary half of “Beat the Satan” — by which Sam, Dean, and the gang plot how one can get into the Apocalypse World after Gabriel’s ( Richard Speight Jr.) grace fails to do the trick — is a number of enjoyable. However the second half of this episode — by which Sam, Dean, and the gang really enterprise into the Apocalypse World — now, that is only a straight up blast! (For us not less than, positively not for our heroes.) The mission to rescue Mary and Jack will get off to a rocky begin when Sam will get taken down by a rabid vampire — not by Michael (Christian Keyes), not by the Satan, not even by God; only a run-of-the-mill vamp. However in a little bit of a excellent news/dangerous information state of affairs, Lucifer breaks free from Rowena’s captivity and resurrects our Sammy. The episode ends with Sam, Dean, Cas, Jack, Mary, Gabriel, and Lucifer all collectively within the Apocalypse World, and boy, is that this gathering definitely worth the wait. This episode will even go down in historical past because the one by which Rowena and Gabriel have intercourse. So there actually is one thing for everybody right here. –Sadie Gennis
Supernatural’s Most Memorable Guest Stars Deliver an Emotional Goodbye to Fans
Season 14
“Mint Situation” (Season 14, Episode 4)
Supernatural has toyed with horror and the style’s many tropes because the starting, however by no means in a means that was fairly as enjoyable as this. In “Mint Situation,” set throughout Halloween, Dean’s love of 1980s slasher flicks, particularly the fictional All Saints’ Day movies, is on the forefront of the motion. Nonetheless, the episode can also be a loving send-up to ’80s popular culture, with references to ThunderCats, Scorching Wheels, Zelda, Halloween, and extra. When the villain within the movies, generally known as Hatchet Man, is possessed by the ghost of a comic book guide retailer proprietor, Dean will get to indulge himself in childhood nostalgia, remembering the occasions he checked out of the horror film that was his personal life and right into a situation by which he knew the dangerous guys would lose. Some could name the episode filler as a result of it does not deal instantly with the overarching story or advance the plot in any means, however “Mint Situation” and episodes prefer it are simply as essential to Supernatural, as they not solely permit the general story to breathe, however they’re usually an important supply of humor and perception to the brothers. (Plus, in an additional particular reference for Supernatural followers, the episode mentions one of many Hell Hazers movies; the second movie within the fictional horror collection was on the heart of Season 2’s “Hollywood Babylon.”) –Kaitlin Thomas
“Lebanon” (Season 14, Episode 13)
After really epic episodes celebrating Supernatural‘s 100th and 200th episodes, we have been a little bit apprehensive there may not be something large enough for 300 episodes. Foolish us. This milestone episode introduced again John Winchester and allowed the boys to get in some a lot wanted household time with their father and mom. The hour additionally resolved some long-standing points between Sam and John, who’d had a turbulent relationship earlier than John died early in Season 2. Watching them forgive each other for all their historical historical past and eventually get to say a correct goodbye was one of the most touching moments the present has ever given us. It is also value noting that John and Mary hadn’t shared the display because the present’s pilot, making this episode and their characters’ on-screen reunion much more particular. –Lindsay MacDonald
“Moriah” (Season 14, Episode 20)
The Season 14 ender was a monster of a finale… actually. The revealing hour checks the Winchesters’ grit as Chuck, threatened by Jack’s immense energy, tries to control Sam and Dean, who’re nonetheless grieving Mary’s demise, into killing Jack. It does not work, although; in a daring transfer, Dean pushes again in opposition to Chuck, who then kills Jack himself and unleashes hell on earth after his favourite creations insurgent in opposition to their creator and refuse to be his pawns any longer. Because the episode closes, a chilling scene unfolds as demons descend upon the earth and shut in on our heroes. It’s a thrilling solution to finish the penultimate season that set the stage for one hell of a closing run that positioned the Winchesters in opposition to God himself. –Keisha Hatchett
Supernatural’s 12 Weirdest Episodes of All Time, Ranked
Season 15
“Final Name” (Season 15, Episode 7)
We waited 15 seasons for Jensen Ackles’ real-life buddy Christian Kane to lastly seem on Supernatural, and the episode didn’t disappoint. The stand-out hour delivers the enjoyable with an superior dwell musical efficiency, numerous consuming, a grotesque monster of the week, and even a rowdy bar struggle that culminates with Dean killing his outdated hunter pal. Any episode that includes Kane and Ackles hanging out and having a very good time — even when it ends badly for one among them — is a superb episode in my guide. –Keisha Hatchett
“The Heroes’ Journey” (Season 15, Episode 10)
Season 15’s “The Heroes’ Journey” calls again to Season 3’s wonderful “Dangerous Day at Black Rock,” which discovered Sam experiencing dangerous luck after coming into contact with a cursed rabbit’s foot. However that was an exterior power enhancing his dangerous luck. Right here, Chuck has taken Sam and Dean’s exceptionally good luck from them, forcing the Winchesters to easily expertise a standard life stuffed with the extra mundane features of humanity for the primary time, like colds, cavities, and parking tickets. The hour, which engages in slapstick, encompasses a black-and-white dance sequence whereas Dean is getting his cavities crammed by Garth, and even detours into monsters cage-fighting, additionally stands out for the best way it explores the character of heroes in storytelling and their accompanying journeys. Their luck issues would seemingly be resolved within the follow-up episode, and whereas it might need simply been a ploy by Chuck to make the Winchesters doubt themselves and their skills, it was additionally a extremely entertaining hour that when once more blended Supernatural‘s well-honed humorousness with significant tales about what it takes to be huge rattling heroes. –Kaitlin Thomas
“Future’s Little one” (Season 15, Episode 13)
“Future’s Little one” had so much going for it: An look from Jo (Danneel Ackles), Ruby’s (Genevieve Padalecki) return after a decade-long absence, the Doppel-Winchesters (together with Sam with a manbun!), Sam and Dean dropping by Hell to discover a mystical object, Cas risking his life to seek out solutions within the Huge Empty, and Jack visiting the Backyard of Eden and regaining his soul. It was an entertaining hour that balanced the comedy of Sam and Dean’s alternate selves with the gravity of Jack coping and not using a soul and the Winchesters’ long-standing grief over what he did to their mom. –Keisha Hatchett
Supernatural‘s collection finale airs Thursday, Nov. 19 at 9/8c on The CW. An hour-long retrospective, Supernatural: The Lengthy Street Dwelling, will air prior at 8/7c.
In honor of Supernatural coming to an finish after 15 seasons, TV Information presents Winchester Week, a celebration of Sam, Dean, and the whole SPN Household. Learn the way the celebrities really feel about saying goodbye, look again on the very best episodes and moments, and be a part of us in sending the Winchesters off in fashion.