Can We Finally Stop the Hate for TV's Most Disappointing Finale 20 Years Later?

Television finales often provoke strong emotions among fans, and the ending of "Supernatural" is no exception. While many viewers expressed disappointment, others argue that it offers a fitting conclusion to the series, reflecting the characters' desires and the show's deeper themes.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The ending of "Supernatural" has been divisive among fans.
• Critics argue it lacks drama after a high-stakes battle against God.
• Supporters view it as a fulfilling conclusion for the characters.
• The finale reflects themes of destiny and free will.
• All 15 seasons of "Supernatural" are available on Amazon Prime.

The Legacy of Supernatural

Premiering on 13 September 2005, "Supernatural" quickly became a staple of American television. With its unique blend of horror, drama, and dark humour, the series captivated audiences for 15 seasons, culminating in an impressive total of 327 episodes. The story follows two brothers, Sam and Dean Winchester, as they navigate a world filled with supernatural creatures and existential threats.

What Makes Supernatural Unique?

"Supernatural" distinguished itself with its character-driven narratives and emotional depth. Unlike many other series in the genre, it explored themes of family, sacrifice, and the human condition. Viewers watched as Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) faced not just monsters, but also personal demons, making their journey relatable and poignant.

The Disappointing Finale

The series finale, titled "Carry On," aired on 19 November 2020. It concluded with the brothers’ deaths, which many fans found unsatisfactory. Dean dies while on a hunt, and Sam goes on to live a normal life before eventually passing away himself. Critics argue that this ending feels anticlimactic, especially following the intense conflict with God in the previous season.

Fan Reactions to the Ending

As the finale aired, social media platforms buzzed with mixed reactions. Some fans expressed feelings of betrayal, arguing the ending undermined the character development throughout the series. On Reddit, users voiced their frustrations, with comments like:

'The ending has been a huge middle finger towards the legacy the show had over 15 years.'

Others lamented the lack of a grand battle that many expected after years of escalating stakes.

Why the Ending Might Not Be So Bad

Despite the backlash, there are compelling arguments in favour of the finale. For many fans, the conclusion encapsulates the essence of Sam and Dean’s journey. Here are some reasons why the ending deserves a reevaluation:

1. A Fitting Conclusion for the Characters

Both brothers receive the endings they sought throughout the series. Dean dies a hero, saving innocent lives, while Sam finds a semblance of normalcy, something he yearned for. This resolution aligns with their character arcs and desires, making their deaths meaningful rather than tragic.

2. Themes of Destiny and Free Will

The finale embodies the themes that permeated "Supernatural". Throughout the series, the brothers were often manipulated by external forces, including prophecy and divine intervention. Their mundane deaths in the end serve as a powerful statement about autonomy. They finally choose their destinies instead of being pawns in a cosmic game.

3. Reunion in Heaven

The brothers’ reunion in heaven offers a sense of closure. After years of battling supernatural threats, they are rewarded with a peaceful afterlife, reuniting with loved ones. This moment reflects the core of the show: the importance of family and connection, even beyond death.

Contextualising Supernatural's Ending

To fully appreciate the finale, it’s essential to understand the show's context. "Supernatural" began as a creature feature that evolved into an intricate narrative about familial bonds, sacrifice, and the complexities of good versus evil. As the series progressed, it became increasingly meta, often commenting on its own tropes and storytelling conventions.

What Fans Expected

Given the show's history of high stakes and epic battles, many viewers anticipated a dramatic final showdown. After facing formidable adversaries, including angels, demons, and even God, the expectation was for a climactic confrontation. Instead, the finale opted for a quieter, more introspective conclusion, which may have left some fans wanting more.

The Impact of Supernatural

"Supernatural" has left a significant mark on television, influencing a generation of shows and fans. It pioneered the idea of long-running genre series with a dedicated fan base, establishing conventions that many subsequent shows would follow. Its combination of horror and heart, coupled with its willingness to explore complex themes, makes it a landmark series in television history.

How It Influenced Future Shows

The show's success opened the door for other genre series to explore similar themes. Shows like "The Vampire Diaries" and "Stranger Things" owe a debt to the narrative depth and character development established by "Supernatural". Additionally, the fandom around the series has demonstrated the power of community in shaping a show's legacy.

Final Thoughts

While the ending of "Supernatural" may not have resonated with all fans, it encapsulates the show's essence and the journey of its characters. By embracing themes of choice and normalcy, the finale offers a unique conclusion that diverges from typical genre expectations. As we reflect on 20 years of "Supernatural", it's essential to appreciate the complex narrative and emotional depth that defined the series.

As the curtain falls on this iconic show, viewers might consider: What does a satisfying ending truly mean? Perhaps it’s not about grandeur but rather the emotional resonance and fulfilment of the characters' journeys. #Supernatural #TVFinales #JaredPadalecki

FAQs

What is the premise of Supernatural?

"Supernatural" follows brothers Sam and Dean Winchester as they hunt supernatural creatures and navigate a world filled with horror, myth, and destiny.

How many seasons does Supernatural have?

The series has a total of 15 seasons and 327 episodes, making it one of the longest-running live-action fantasy series in television history.

What are the main themes of Supernatural?

The show explores themes of family, sacrifice, destiny, and free will, often challenging traditional notions of good and evil.

Why do some fans dislike the ending of Supernatural?

Many fans felt the finale was anticlimactic, lacking the dramatic resolution they anticipated after 15 seasons of escalating stakes and conflicts.

Where can I watch Supernatural?

All 15 seasons of "Supernatural" are available for streaming on Amazon Prime.