After Fifty-leven Seasons, ‘Supernatural’ Says Goodbye

Few shows make it past the coveted 100 episodes needed for syndication, and even fewer make an impact so strong that it serves as a hallmark for an entire generation. Rarer still is the show that accomplishes both. But that’s exactly what the otherworldly drama Supernatural did before concluding its staggering 15-season, 327-episode run on The CW this Thursday. Since 2005 we’ve watched the Winchester brothers Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) battle demons, monsters, and even God himself (aka “Chuck”), all in the service of humanity and each other. It’s been an exciting and, at times, gut wrenching ride that’s been hit or miss over its decade+ run, but always worth the trip. Unfortunately for fans, the finale “Carry On” didn’t quite capture the endearing spirit. “Carry On” picks up two episodes after the heartbreaking goodbye of the angel Castiel (Misha Collins) and the high octane penultimate episode where the Winchester finally get the drop on Chuck (Rob Benedict) and with the help of the of the nephilim Jack (Alexander Calvert) strip God of his powers. #TeamFreeWill is allowed to live their lives in peace, free of Chuck’s machinations that have plagued their family since before Dean and baby brother Sam were even born.

L to R: Sam, Dean, and the angel Castiel

Most shows end with a bang, as the lead characters face their darkest challenge yet. But “Carry On” follows in a different, and welcomed, alternative of ending the series after the fact, showing us what…