Jack Kline, the Nephilim son of Lucifer and Kelly Kline, experiences a dramatic and pivotal arc throughout Supernatural. His death and resurrection are key plot points. Jack returns to the land of the living in Supernatural season 15, episode 18, “Despair.” This episode marks his official return after a period of presumed death and significant buildup regarding his fate.
The Resurrection of Jack Kline
Jack’s journey in Supernatural is fraught with trials and tribulations. From grappling with his immense power to navigating his parentage and ultimately sacrificing himself, his story is one of redemption and self-discovery. His initial death in season 14 left a significant void in the lives of Sam and Dean Winchester, who had come to view him as their son. His resurrection in season 15 is not simply a plot device but a crucial turning point for the entire series, impacting the ultimate confrontation with God (Chuck).
The Path to Resurrection
The events leading to Jack’s return are complex and intricately woven into the overarching narrative of season 15. After his death, Billie (Death) took Jack to the Empty, where he remained for a period of time. Her intention was to train him to become the new Death, a successor to herself. This training was kept secret from Sam and Dean initially, adding to the suspense surrounding Jack’s ultimate fate.
“Despair”: The Re-Emergence
In “Despair,” Jack is brought back to Earth by Billie as part of her plan to defeat Chuck. His resurrection is directly linked to the specific events unfolding in the episode, including the devastating loss suffered by Dean. The timing of his return is crucial, as he is needed to fulfill the final step in Billie’s plan, which involves absorbing God’s power.
FAQs About Jack’s Return
Here are some frequently asked questions addressing the specifics and implications of Jack’s resurrection in Supernatural:
FAQ 1: What Happened to Jack After He Died in Season 14?
After Jack’s death at the end of season 14, Billie, the new Death, took him to the Empty. The Empty is a cosmic void where angels and demons go when they die. She had plans for him that were revealed later.
FAQ 2: Why Did Billie Take Jack to the Empty?
Billie intended to train Jack to become the new Death. She saw him as the only being powerful enough to ultimately defeat God, Chuck. His training in the Empty was essential to prepare him for this immense responsibility.
FAQ 3: How Was Jack Able to Become So Powerful?
Jack’s power stemmed from his unique nature as a Nephilim, the offspring of an angel and a human. Being the son of Lucifer, he possessed extraordinary abilities far surpassing those of ordinary Nephilim. His lineage combined with Billie’s training made him a potent cosmic force.
FAQ 4: Was Jack Aware of Billie’s Plan While in the Empty?
While details are limited, it’s implied that Jack was aware of the general purpose of his training. Billie guided him, preparing him for the role he was meant to play in defeating Chuck. He underwent a form of instruction and empowerment during his time in the Empty.
FAQ 5: What Specific Powers Did Jack Gain in the Empty?
While the series doesn’t explicitly detail all the powers Jack gained, it’s clear he significantly increased his ability to absorb and manipulate cosmic energy. He learned to harness the power of the Empty and wield it effectively. This was demonstrated when he absorbed Chuck’s power.
FAQ 6: How Did Jack Return to Earth in “Despair”?
Billie sent Jack back to Earth in “Despair” to fulfill the final stage of her plan. She timed his return to coincide with specific events, ensuring he was present at the crucial moment. She orchestrated his return as a key component of her strategy to defeat Chuck.
FAQ 7: What Was Jack’s Role in Defeating Chuck?
Jack’s ultimate role was to absorb Chuck’s power, essentially becoming a cosmic vacuum. This rendered Chuck powerless and allowed the Winchesters to imprison him. His absorption of God’s power was the critical turning point in the final battle.
FAQ 8: Did Jack’s Personality Change After Returning From the Empty?
Yes, Jack’s personality underwent subtle but noticeable changes. While he retained his core goodness and desire to do the right thing, he became more stoic and focused. His experiences in the Empty and his training by Billie instilled a sense of purpose and responsibility in him.
FAQ 9: How Did Sam and Dean React to Jack’s Return?
Sam and Dean’s reactions were complex and layered. While overjoyed to have him back, they were also wary of his newfound power and the implications of Billie’s plan. They struggled with the knowledge that Jack was destined to play a potentially dangerous role.
FAQ 10: What Happened to Billie After Jack Absorbed Chuck’s Power?
After Jack absorbed Chuck’s power, Billie’s plan backfired. Her death book revealed that she would be killed by Jack. This led to a confrontation and ultimately, Jack unintentionally killed her. Her death had significant repercussions for the balance of power in the universe.
FAQ 11: What Did Jack Do With Chuck’s Power After Absorbing It?
Instead of becoming the new God himself, Jack chose to restore balance to the universe. He recreated Heaven, allowing deceased loved ones to find peace, and stepped back from directly intervening in the lives of humans. He became a more passive, benevolent force, ensuring free will remained intact.
FAQ 12: What is Jack’s Status at the End of Supernatural?
At the end of Supernatural, Jack is essentially the new God of the universe, but he doesn’t rule with an iron fist like Chuck. He allows humanity to chart its own course and ensures a more equitable afterlife. He provides a hopeful ending, suggesting a better future for both Heaven and Earth. His approach is less intrusive and allows for free will.
The Impact of Jack’s Return on the Series Finale
Jack’s return in “Despair” and his subsequent actions fundamentally shaped the ending of Supernatural. His ability to absorb Chuck’s power was the catalyst for the final resolution. The fact that he chose to restore balance rather than impose his own will offered a sense of closure and optimism to the long-running series.
Jack’s resurrection was not just a plot twist but a defining moment that ultimately dictated the fate of the Winchesters and the entire Supernatural universe. It allowed for a nuanced and satisfying conclusion, emphasizing the importance of choice, sacrifice, and the enduring power of family.