Supernatural is an American
horror television series that concerns the
paranormal. The series, which is filmed in
Vancouver, BC, Canada, debuted on September 13, 2005 on
The WB, and is now part of
The CW's lineup. The
second season premiered on September 28, 2006, and the
third on October 4, 2007, though its run was interrupted by the
writers' strike.
Supernatural returned for a
fourth season on September 18, 2008.
Plot
The series follows the brothers
Dean and
Sam Winchester, played by
Jensen Ackles and
Jared Padalecki, who travel across the country in a black 1967
Chevy Impala investigating and combating
paranormal events and other unexplained occurrences, many of them based on
folklore,
myths, and American
urban legends as well as classic
supernatural creatures such as
vampires,
werewolves, and
ghosts.
Eric Kripke, the series' creator, cites
Neil Gaiman's
The Sandman and
American Gods as influences on
Supernatural, along with
American Werewolf in London and
Joseph Campbell's
The Hero's Journey.
[Sci Fi TV Series: Eric Kripke: Satan's Head Writer]
The plot of the series has evolved over time, beginning initially with the Winchester brothers, Sam and Dean, looking for their father throughout most of season one. Once they find him, the show becomes about killing
Azazel, the yellow-eyed demon responsible for the death of their
mother 23 years ago. This is accomplished, but not until after Azazel's plans are completed and a door to Hell is opened, although only momentarily, releasing a horde of demons into the world. This event also sees the death of Sam, who is subsequently resurrected by Dean selling his soul at the end of season two. In the third season, the plot of the show focuses on trying to save Dean from his deal. Along the way, they meet a demon named
Ruby, who has an interest in Sam and claims to be able to help save Dean, as well as
Bela Talbot, an "acquirer" and seller of occult objects who is constantly a thorn in their side. The brothers eventually manage to track down the demon who holds Dean's contract, a powerhouse named
Lilith who also wants Sam dead. However, Sam and Ruby ultimately fail to save Dean, who is killed and sent to Hell. Season four begins with Dean awakening dazed and confused in a grave, having been rescued by an angel named Castiel on orders from God. Sam on the other hand, has further developed his abilities with the help of Ruby during the months that Dean has been dead. It is soon revealed that Dean was revived to help stop Lilith's plan of breaking the 66 seals, which would let Lucifer walk free once again.