Supernatural was one of the most captivating paranormal dramas to be scripted for the small screen. Impressively it was also one of the longest-running supernatural dramas to air, only to be surpassed by Doctor Who, which ran for 37 seasons. Unbelievably Supernatural maintained a robust fandom for over 300 episodes and fifteen years. And after the series finale, which wrapped in 2020, fans still clamored for more of the Dean and Sam's otherworldly chronicles.
Robbie Thompson's creative contribution would give viewers more of the story in the form of the new supernatural drama The Winchesters, a prequel to the flagship. The Winchesters premiered on October 4th on The CW. While there was no certainty in how the show would perform, CW counted the series debut as a success. According to Deadline, for CW, "[The Winchesters] was the most-watched debut so far this season in total viewers." Which was a good indicator of what could be possible for the series.
Prequels are always tricky, as fans can be antsy about the tie-in. And like many other films and series of similitude, the introduction of this new drama has some desirous answers to some crucial questions. The question of primary concern is whether Supernatural and The Winchesters would coincide or be distinctly different stories. Fundamentally fans wanted to know if the lore would remain intact and cannon go unscathed. So here is what we know about the differences in lore and whether the difference will have a negative impact.
The Winchesters: Changes to How It All Began
The Winchesters takes audiences back to the beginning, the very beginning. Let's call it a When Harry Met Sally encounter brought together by demon hunting. Those familiar with the original will not fail to recognize the slight change in how fate brings John and Mary together. In The Winchesters, the two don’t seemingly fall in love over a cup of coffee after a chance meeting. It takes fate a bit longer to cast its spell. For some, this could be a game changer but not likely as it doesn't alter the subsequent events too much.
However, there is another alteration that may give more viewers pause. In The Winchesters, John's draw to a life of demon-hunting is almost instantaneous. However, in Supernatural, John did not begin his charge to hunt demons until after the death of his fated love Mary at the hands of Azazel. That is quite a shift. And despite the excitement for what could be, such a change could lead some to wonder if that new twist will turn the original into a pile of rubbish.
Supernatural Fans Are Asked Not to Worry
One secret to the novelty of this series is new revelations that went undiscovered by Dean in the original. So, this show is a dramatic revealing of more profound insights, like unfolding a beautiful, dark, and unique black Dahlia. Plus, assurances have been made that the changes will not affect the integrity of the original work. According to a statement from Jensen Ackles (Dean Winchester), as noted in Showbiz Cheat Sheet:
" Fans needn’t worry. He’s here to protect the Supernatural canon. The integrity of the mothership is vital to us that we do not want to tamper with."
But then there is the other equally important question for viewers. Will the whole of what is being explored be revealed by the season's end?
As creator Thompson is further recorded as relaying the Showbiz Cheat Sheet article, that the finale of The Winchesters' first season will reveal what the viewers need to know. In Thompson's words, "But I promise we’re gonna turn ’em [proverbial cards] all over in episode 13."
The Winchesters vs. Supernatural
The Winchesters is indeed a deeper dive. In this offering, fans see the foundation and become more familiar with Sam and Dean’s lineage. This ultimately helps to bring additional light to the soul flame that catalyzes Sam and Dean’s efforts. While Supernatural gives some background, the focus is on the two brothers chosen by fate to pick up their father's mantle. And it is through flashbacks in the earlier seasons that viewers see fragments of how their mother plays into their mission.
Unfortunately, it’s not until Season 11 that fans get to meet Mary in person via her inclusion in an advancing story plot. But of course, she isn't around for long. And it's not until season 14th, on the 300th episode, that John (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) returns in the capacity of the boys’ father. So it can be said that whether than taking from canon, The Winchesters adds to it, and that makes The Winchesters a welcome addition and exactly what the Supernatural universe needed.
Whether the changes will culminate in negative feedback is yet to be seen. There is much to indicate that the changes will ultimately be welcomed, and fans will be pleasantly surprised. The series still has a feel of the old yet is entirely new. While some may be skeptical at first, it grows on you. Besides, everyone needs something original now and then. Those interested in seeing Dean and Sam's origins and adding a little drama to Tuesday’s The Winchesters is currently streaming on The CW.