Supernatural revival still being discussed, but an announcement this year seems unlikely

The CW’s iconic series Supernatural concluded its epic fifteen-season journey in 2020. While many fans praised the show’s legacy, the closing episodes left numerous viewers wanting more, especially regarding the fate of the beloved Winchester brothers.

The final episode, titled Carry On, had its production impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a significantly reduced cast and changes from the original storyline. This shift, along with notable episodes such as Despair, drew substantial criticism from fans regarding the resolution of key character arcs, as reported by Entertainment Weekly.

In the years following the finale, discussions about a potential revival have ramped up among cast members and fans alike. But will we see a sixteenth season or perhaps even a movie spin-off? Here’s everything we know about a possible Supernatural revival.

Is Supernatural Making a Comeback?

As of now, Warner Bros. Discovery has not confirmed any plans for a Supernatural revival. However, hints and rumors suggest that something may be brewing.

During a recent 20th-anniversary interview, key cast members Jensen Ackles, Jared Padalecki, and Misha Collins entertained the idea of a revival. Following some lighthearted banter, Padalecki mentioned, “We’re all a lot older than we were 20 years ago. I don’t know if I have 22 episodes of Supernatural in me. I think a limited series would be great.”

Ackles added an interesting perspective on the tone of the series, stating, “I’ve thought about this… It would’ve been different had it been on a streamer. But part of me feels like changing that now might be doing it a disservice.”

Rumors began circulating more prominently during the Creation Honolulu convention in November 2023. Padalecki expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I have some ideas, and I hope that now that the writers are back, and the actors are back, that we all get together.” Ackles chimed in, “Stay tuned… there are some conversations regarding that conversation that are being had.”

Recently, on April 2, 2024, Padalecki reinforced interest in a revival, emphasizing that it would be a labor of love, aiming to stay true to the series’ canon, characters, and fandom. He affirmed, “So, my short answer is it’s not a consideration; the answer is yes. I just don’t know when.”

Additionally, Creation Entertainment, known for its conventions, revealed a collector coin celebrating the show’s 20th anniversary, with the curious inscription “2005 – ?,” suggesting that Supernatural might not be finished yet.

Excitingly, the main trio is set to reunite on-screen—not for Supernatural, but in the anticipated fifth season of The Boys. Both Padalecki and Collins have completed their scenes, and showrunner Eric Kripke confirmed their involvement.

“I will confirm that Jared, Jensen, and Misha are all in the same frame together, in the same storyline, and interacting with each other.”

While this may not be a full reunion of Sam, Dean, and Cas, it’s a close encounter for fans of the original show.

It’s worth mentioning that Ackles is also involved in a prequel titled The Winchesters, which, unfortunately, was canceled after just one season. However, his efforts in keeping the Supernatural universe alive hint at the potential for further projects.

When Could We See Supernatural Return?

Jared Padalecki hinted at the possibility of a Supernatural reunion later this year, but realistic expectations suggest that any such announcement may not materialize until at least 2026.

Padalecki mentioned on the Tommy DiDario podcast, “I think Jensen and I both said in 2020 we’d love to revisit these characters… give us five years—which is next year.” Yet with Ackles’ busy project schedule, including work on The Boys, the timeline seems uncertain.

Additionally, Misha Collins has remarked on a revival’s possibilities, expressing interest but reiterating that there are no immediate plans. The 20th anniversary celebrations have passed without significant news, suggesting that fans should manage their expectations for a quick return.

Will This Be Season 16 or a Reboot?

It remains unclear whether a revival would classify as an official season 16 or take the form of a reboot. This might depend on the involvement of original cast members and the creative direction Warner Bros. decides to pursue.

Ackles has previously expressed enthusiasm for a shorter, focused revival, possibly taking the form of a miniseries with a more condensed storyline. This approach could allow for a deeper exploration of character arcs, setting it apart from the traditional episodic format we saw in the original series.

Who Might Return for Season 16?

Should a revival materialize, we can comfortably expect the iconic trio—Jared Padalecki (Sam Winchester), Jensen Ackles (Dean Winchester), and Misha Collins (Castiel)—to be back on board.

Ackles had previously alluded to the possibility of resurrecting characters from earlier seasons of Supernatural in future projects. Notably, supporting favorites like Jack Kline (Alexander Calvert), Rowena (Ruth Connell), and Bobby Singer (Jim Beaver) may also return.

If the revival includes aspects of The Winchesters, fans might glimpse younger versions of John (Drake Rodger) and Mary (Meg Donnelly), or even their older counterparts, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Samantha Smith.

What Could Be the Plot for Season 16?

Warning: Spoilers Ahead for the Finale of Supernatural and The Winchesters

When Supernatural concluded, the narrative stakes had reached unprecedented heights—culminating in the Winchesters facing off against God, also known as Chuck Shurley (Rob Benedict). After ultimately neutralizing him, the brothers resumed their monster-hunting exploits, free from external supernatural control, leading to Dean’s anticlimactic demise.

Fans criticized Dean’s ending, expressing dissatisfaction with how it lacked the grandeur expected of such a pivotal character. Possible plots for a new season might explore untold stories from the brothers’ lives or delve into up-and-coming supernatural threats in their universe.

Moreover, season 16 could further develop multiverse concepts introduced in The Winchesters, exploring timelines or alternatives to the established narrative in Supernatural.

Ackles has expressed a desire to revisit these characters, emphasizing the storytelling potential of revisiting unresolved arcs, particularly the nuanced relationship between Dean and Cas, potentially from different angles.

What Network Could Season 16 Air On?

The future of Supernatural is complicated due to recent changes at the CW. The network’s new ownership is shifting its focus toward traditional broadcast formats, which could spell trouble for series with the legacy of Supernatural.

Given Padalecki’s candid comments regarding the CW after the cancellation of his show, it’s unlikely the revival would find a home there. A more probable destination would be Warner Bros.’ streaming service, HBO Max, where Ackles has shown interest in reviving Supernatural.

How to Catch Up on Supernatural Seasons 1 to 15

Fans looking to revisit the Winchester saga can catch seasons 1 through 15 on Amazon Prime Video in the UK, with subscriptions starting from £5.99 per month.

In the US, Supernatural is available on Spectrum.

For now, we’ll keep you updated as more information about a potential revival emerges. Whatever the outcome, the legacy of Supernatural will undoubtedly continue to resonate within its passionate fandom.