The most recent and final episode of the iconic CW series Supernatural is “Carry On,” episode 20 of season 15, which aired on November 19, 2020. This episode marked the bittersweet conclusion of the Winchester brothers’ long and arduous journey, bringing closure to their fight against evil while leaving a lasting impact on its devoted fanbase.
A Farewell to the Winchesters: Analyzing “Carry On”
After fifteen seasons, the question of how Supernatural would conclude its epic saga loomed large. “Carry On” opted for a more intimate and character-driven resolution, focusing on the bond between Sam and Dean Winchester rather than another world-ending threat. This departure from the show’s usual formula polarized some viewers, while others appreciated the emotional depth and emphasis on family that had always been at the heart of the series.
The episode begins with Dean embarking on a seemingly routine hunt, showcasing his continued dedication to saving people and hunting things, the family business. He encounters a nest of vampires, leading to a fatal confrontation where he is mortally wounded. While the circumstances of Dean’s death have been a subject of debate (some felt it was anticlimactic given their past battles), the focus quickly shifts to the emotional fallout and its impact on Sam.
The heart of the episode lies in Dean’s final moments and his subsequent journey to Heaven, now reimagined without God’s interference and tailored to his desires. He reunites with Bobby Singer, reinforcing the idea that Heaven is a place of peace and happiness where loved ones can reconnect. Meanwhile, Sam lives a long and fulfilling life on Earth, raising a son named Dean, honoring his brother’s memory. The episode concludes with Sam’s death and his eventual reunion with Dean in Heaven, showcasing the enduring power of their brotherhood and their final, eternal peace. The episode’s title, “Carry On,” reflects their enduring legacy and the continuation of their fight, even beyond the mortal realm.
Key Themes and Symbolic Moments
Several key themes resonate throughout “Carry On.” The enduring power of family is paramount, highlighting the unbreakable bond between Sam and Dean and their dedication to each other. The episode also emphasizes the importance of choice and free will, showcasing how the Winchesters ultimately shaped their own destinies, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Finally, “Carry On” explores the concept of legacy, illustrating how the Winchesters’ actions and sacrifices inspired others and left a lasting impact on the world, even long after their deaths.
Significant symbolic moments include Dean’s final words to Sam, emphasizing their brotherly love and acceptance. The altered Heaven, personalized and fulfilling, represents a reward for their sacrifices and a testament to their unwavering belief in good. Sam naming his son Dean is a powerful symbol of remembrance and a continuation of the Winchester legacy. The final scene of Sam and Dean reunited in Heaven, driving their iconic Impala down a familiar road, is a poignant image of peace and eternal companionship.
Critical Reception and Fan Reactions
“Carry On” received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. Some praised the emotional depth and the focus on the Winchester brothers’ relationship, highlighting the strong performances of Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki. Others criticized the episode’s pacing, the circumstances of Dean’s death, and the overall lack of a grand, overarching conclusion to the series.
Fan reactions were similarly divided. Some fans found the ending satisfying and emotionally resonant, appreciating the focus on the characters and their enduring bond. Others expressed disappointment with the perceived anticlimactic nature of Dean’s death and the lack of resolution for some of the show’s long-standing storylines. The debate surrounding “Carry On” continues to this day, highlighting the passionate connection that fans have with Supernatural and its characters.
Supernatural FAQs: Diving Deeper
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the end of Supernatural:
H3: 1. Why was Dean’s death in “Carry On” controversial?
Dean’s death was controversial because it occurred during a seemingly routine vampire hunt, rather than during a grand, world-saving battle. Many viewers felt it was anticlimactic and didn’t do justice to the character’s legendary status as a hunter. Some argued that his death felt too random and insignificant compared to the epic battles he had survived throughout the series.
H3: 2. What happened to Castiel in the episodes leading up to the finale?
Castiel sacrificed himself in the episode prior to “Carry On” (“Despair”), confessing his love for Dean just before his death. This act triggered the Empty to reclaim him, saving Dean from a potentially devastating deal with Death. Castiel’s absence in “Carry On” was another point of contention for some fans, who felt his character deserved to be part of the Winchesters’ final moments.
H3: 3. Was there a time jump in “Carry On”?
Yes, there was a time jump. While Dean’s death occurs at the beginning of the episode, the latter half shows Sam living a long life, raising his son Dean, and eventually dying of old age. This time jump allows viewers to see the lasting impact of Dean’s sacrifice and the continuation of the Winchester family line.
H3: 4. What was the significance of the altered Heaven?
The altered Heaven, shown in “Carry On,” represents a significant departure from the previously established rules and structure of Heaven. Without God’s influence, Heaven becomes a personalized and fulfilling place for each individual, where they can reunite with loved ones and experience happiness. This new Heaven is a reward for the Winchesters’ sacrifices and a testament to their unwavering belief in good.
H3: 5. Why did Sam name his son Dean?
Sam naming his son Dean is a powerful symbol of remembrance and a continuation of the Winchester legacy. It demonstrates Sam’s deep love and respect for his brother and ensures that Dean’s memory will live on through future generations. It also represents the enduring impact of Dean’s actions and his influence on Sam’s life.
H3: 6. Are there any plans for a Supernatural reboot or revival?
While there have been discussions and rumors about potential reboots or revivals of Supernatural, nothing has been officially announced as of yet. The show’s creators and stars have expressed openness to revisiting the world of Supernatural in the future, but any potential project would need to be carefully considered to ensure it honors the legacy of the original series. In 2023, a prequel series titled The Winchesters premiered but it was cancelled after one season.
H3: 7. How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect the filming of the Supernatural finale?
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the filming of the Supernatural finale. Production was halted in March 2020, and the final two episodes were delayed until November. The pandemic also forced some changes to the original storyline and production plans, including limitations on the number of actors who could be on set and the types of scenes that could be filmed.
H3: 8. What are Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki doing now?
Since the conclusion of Supernatural, both Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki have remained active in the entertainment industry. Jensen Ackles starred in The Boys and also produced and narrated The Winchesters, a Supernatural prequel series. Jared Padalecki starred in the series Walker, a reboot of the classic show Walker, Texas Ranger.
H3: 9. Was the ending of Supernatural planned from the beginning?
No, the ending of Supernatural was not planned from the very beginning. The show’s storyline evolved over its fifteen seasons, and the ending was developed in response to the characters’ journeys and the overall narrative arc of the series. The show’s creators and writers worked closely with the actors to craft an ending that felt true to the spirit of the show and its characters.
H3: 10. Why didn’t more characters from the series return for the finale?
The absence of many beloved characters in the finale was due to a combination of factors, including scheduling conflicts, budgetary constraints, and creative decisions. The show’s creators and writers ultimately chose to focus on the core relationship between Sam and Dean, and they felt that introducing too many characters would detract from the emotional impact of their final moments.
H3: 11. Where can I watch the “Carry On” episode of Supernatural?
You can watch “Carry On” and all other episodes of Supernatural on various streaming platforms, including Netflix (depending on your region), Amazon Prime Video, and CW Seed. You can also purchase episodes or seasons on digital platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
H3: 12. What is the lasting legacy of Supernatural?
The lasting legacy of Supernatural is its impact on popular culture and its devoted fanbase. The show’s themes of family, loyalty, and sacrifice resonated with viewers around the world, and its unique blend of horror, humor, and heart has made it a beloved and enduring series. Supernatural also launched the careers of several talented actors and writers, and it continues to inspire and influence other television shows and films. The show’s fandom remains active and passionate, keeping the Winchester brothers’ legacy alive for years to come. The emphasis on choosing to do good, even when facing impossible odds, provides a positive message that has resonated with millions.