Gabriel, the archangel trickster, seemingly met his demise in Season 5. However, Gabriel returns to the land of the living in Supernatural Season 13, episode 18, “Bring ’em Back Alive”. This unexpected resurrection provided a significant boost to the narrative and opened new possibilities for the Winchesters.
The Resurrection Revelation: Season 13, Episode 18
The return of Gabriel was anything but straightforward. While many fans believed he had truly died battling Lucifer, the writers cleverly crafted a scenario that allowed for his survival and eventual reappearance. Episode 13.18, “Bring ’em Back Alive,” unveils the truth: Gabriel had faked his death.
Unraveling the Deception
Gabriel, ever the strategist, realized that a direct confrontation with Lucifer was likely to be fatal. Instead of a heroic last stand, he orchestrated an illusion, fooling even his own brothers. This highlights his cunning and pragmatism, traits that defined his character throughout the series. His deception underscores the central theme of survival, even if it meant sacrificing perceived honor.
The Role of Asmodeus
Asmodeus, the Prince of Hell, plays a crucial role in Gabriel’s return. He captured and tortured Gabriel, draining him of his grace, a crucial element for angelic powers. This captivity explains Gabriel’s weakened state upon his re-emergence, necessitating a period of recovery and regaining his strength.
Gabriel’s Return: A Catalyst for Change
Gabriel’s reappearance injects renewed energy into the storyline, offering the Winchesters much-needed assistance in their ongoing battle against evil. His knowledge and unique abilities prove invaluable, and his presence brings a sense of levity to the often-grim atmosphere of the show.
A Shift in Perspective
Gabriel’s experiences, including his torture at the hands of Asmodeus, significantly impacted his perspective. He becomes more willing to fight for what’s right and less inclined towards his trademark trickery. This maturation adds depth to his character and allows for more profound interactions with Sam and Dean.
Strategic Alliance with the Winchesters
Despite his initial reservations, Gabriel forms a strong alliance with the Winchesters. He actively participates in their missions, providing crucial intelligence and tactical support. This collaboration allows the Winchesters to gain a significant advantage against their adversaries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gabriel’s Return
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Gabriel’s return to Supernatural:
1. How Did Gabriel Fake His Death?
Gabriel, being an archangel, possessed incredible power, including the ability to create incredibly realistic illusions. He used this power to create a convincing simulation of his death, fooling even Lucifer, who believed he had extinguished Gabriel’s life force. This illusion utilized a blend of light, sound, and energy manipulation.
2. Why Did Gabriel Wait So Long to Return?
Gabriel needed time to recover from the torture inflicted upon him by Asmodeus. He was significantly weakened and required time to regain his grace. Furthermore, he may have been hesitant to re-enter the conflict, fearing the consequences of another confrontation with Lucifer or other powerful entities.
3. Where Was Gabriel During His Absence?
While the show doesn’t explicitly detail his exact whereabouts, it’s implied that Gabriel spent his time trying to heal and evade detection. He likely remained hidden, utilizing his trickster skills to stay off the radar of both Heaven and Hell.
4. Was Gabriel’s Return Planned From the Beginning?
It’s debated among fans and showrunners whether Gabriel’s return was planned from the very beginning. Some believe it was a pre-determined storyline, while others suggest it was a creative decision made later in the series’ run. However, the possibility of angelic resurrections had been established earlier in the show’s lore.
5. How Did Asmodeus Capture Gabriel?
Asmodeus, being a cunning Prince of Hell, likely utilized a combination of tactics to capture Gabriel. He may have exploited Gabriel’s trust or lured him into a trap, perhaps using another angel or demon as bait. The details of the capture are not explicitly shown.
6. Did Gabriel Ever Regain His Full Power?
While Gabriel does regain a significant portion of his power, it’s unclear whether he ever fully recovered to his pre-torture levels. The damage inflicted by Asmodeus likely left lasting effects, potentially limiting his capabilities.
7. What Was Gabriel’s Motivation for Returning?
Gabriel’s motivations for returning are complex. He initially sought revenge against Asmodeus for the torture he endured. However, his time spent with the Winchesters also inspired a sense of responsibility and a desire to fight for the greater good.
8. How Did Gabriel’s Return Impact the Angelic Conflict?
Gabriel’s return had a significant impact on the angelic conflict, providing a much-needed ally against the dwindling forces of Heaven and the rising power of Hell. His knowledge and experience proved invaluable in navigating the complex political landscape of the supernatural world.
9. Did Gabriel’s Return Affect His Relationship with His Brothers?
Gabriel’s return further strained his already complex relationship with his brothers, particularly Lucifer. However, it also offered an opportunity for reconciliation, albeit a difficult and ultimately tragic one. Michael was less of a factor, due to his imprisonment.
10. What Role Does Gabriel Play in the Alternate Universe Storyline?
Gabriel plays a key role in the storyline involving the alternate universe (Apocalypse World). He assists the Winchesters in rescuing the alternate versions of familiar characters and fighting against Michael, the alternate version of his brother.
11. Does Gabriel Eventually Die Again?
Yes, sadly, Gabriel does eventually die again. He sacrifices himself to save the Winchesters and Jack from Michael in Season 13, Episode 22, “Let the Good Times Roll”. This time, his death appears to be definitive.
12. Is There Any Chance Gabriel Could Return Again?
Given Supernatural‘s history of resurrecting characters, never say never. However, considering the circumstances of his second death and the finality of the series conclusion, it seems unlikely that Gabriel will return again. While the show’s mythos allows for almost anything, his storyline reached a conclusive and poignant end.