10 Memorable Supernatural Episodes Featuring Major Character Deaths

Supernatural has left an indelible mark on fans through its penchant for dramatic character deaths. In the entirety of the series, deaths occur in almost every episode, commencing with the heart-wrenching demise of Mary Winchester, Sam and Dean’s mother, in the pilot. The show’s structure often introduces a civilian fatality at the outset of each episode, designed to propel the storyline forward and establish the dark tone that defines the series.

Spanning an impressive 15 seasons, Supernatural is notorious for its shocking character eliminations. Both Sam and Dean Winchester have faced death multiple times, only to be miraculously resurrected. Nonetheless, certain episodes resonate more profoundly with audiences, marking the end of beloved characters and altering the course of the show forever.

10. Season 2, Episode 1: “In My Time of Dying”

John Winchester

Although John Winchester only appeared in a handful of episodes, his impact resonated throughout season 1 as Sam and Dean searched for their missing father. His death in the season 2 premiere, “In My Time of Dying,” marked a pivotal moment for the series, leaving the Winchester brothers with only one another for familial support. John’s fatal encounter set the stage for Dean’s emotional struggles in future storylines, significantly influencing his character development.

Tragedy strikes when John trades his life for Dean’s during a desperate deal with the Yellow-Eyed Demon, Azazel, after Dean survives a harrowing accident. This selfless act culminates in an emotional reunion, as Sam and Dean discover their father lifeless in a hospital room.

9. Season 5, Episode 10: “Abandon All Hope”

Jo & Ellen Harvelle

In this heart-wrenching episode, the Winchesters join forces with Castiel, Jo, Ellen, and Bobby to combat Lucifer. The mission is tragically derailed when a Hellhound attacks Jo, resulting in fatal injuries. In a poignant moment, Ellen remains by her daughter’s side as she passes, sacrificing herself to save the others by detonating a bomb to fend off the Hellhounds.

Ellen’s final words, echoing the sentiments of late producer Kim Manners, imbue the scene with deeper meaning, making her final moments unforgettable.

8. Season 7, Episode 10: “Death’s Door”

Bobby Singer

The mid-season finale brings forth one of the series’ most emotional departures, as Bobby struggles to evade a Reaper while reliving poignant memories. After being seriously wounded by Dick Roman, the Leviathan, Bobby’s deterioration prompts a desperate effort by Sam and Dean to save him.

Bobby: I was a kid! Kids ain’t supposed to be grateful! They’re supposed to eat your food and break your heart, ya selfish d*ck! You died, and I was still so afraid I’d turn into you, I never even had kids of my own!

Ed Singer: Good… You break everything you touch.

Bobby: Well, as fate would have it, I adopted two boys, and they grew up great. They grew up heroes. So you can go to hell!

This episode grants a profound glimpse into Bobby’s past, emphasizing his role as a father figure to Sam and Dean. The heart-wrenching nature of Bobby’s journey culminates in a bittersweet farewell, forever changing the tone of the series.

7. Season 9, Episode 9: “Holy Terror”

Kevin Tran

The mid-season finale “Holy Terror” sees a devastating blow to the Winchesters when Gadreel, masquerading as Ezekiel, kills Kevin Tran, the beloved prophet. As the story unfolds, Kevin, who had become an integral part of their journey, is smited on Metatron’s orders, leaving both brothers wracked with guilt and sorrow for his untimely demise.

6. Season 10, Episode 21: “Dark Dynasty”

Charlie Bradbury

Fan favorite Charlie Bradbury faces a brutal end in “Dark Dynasty.” Her character, initially introduced as a spirited hacker, is horrifically murdered by a member of the Styne family, signifying one of the most shocking and violent deaths in the series. As Sam and Dean uncover her lifeless body in a bathtub, viewers are left to grapple with the senseless nature of her demise.

5. Season 12, Episode 23: “All Along the Watchtower”

Crowley

Crowley’s evolution from antagonist to ally captures the hearts of fans, making his death in “All Along the Watchtower” particularly heartbreaking. In a significant sacrifice, Crowley takes his own life with an Angel Blade to seal Lucifer away, leaving a poignant void in the dynamics of the show.

4. Season 14, Episode 17: “Game Night”

Mary Winchester

Mary Winchester’s return added layers to the narrative, yet her unexpected off-screen death at the hands of Jack Kline marks a deeply unsettling moment in the series. As Jack struggles with his dark nature, Mary’s determination to protect him ultimately leads to her sudden elimination, solidifying the tragic trajectory of both characters.

3. Season 15, Episode 3: “The Rupture”

Rowena McLeod

The series’ concluding season features Rowan’s valiant sacrifice as she attempts to seal a ruptured barrier and protect the living. In a gripping act, Rowena allows Sam to kill her as she absorbs the souls and jumps into the rupture, showcasing her unparalleled power and bravery.

2. Season 15, Episode 18: “Despair”

Castiel

The emotional intensity in “Despair” reaches its zenith with Castiel’s tragic demise. In an ultimate act of love for Dean, Castiel professes his feelings, triggering the Empty’s arrival, leading to his absorption. The heartbreaking revelation unfolds in a manner that resonates deeply with fans, marking it as one of the most poignant deaths in the entire series.

1. Season 15, Episode 20: “Carry On”

Sam and Dean Winchester

The series finale “Carry On” pays tribute to the journey of Sam and Dean as they navigate loss and love throughout their lives. In a poignant end, Dean’s untimely demise during a routine hunt signifies the culmination of their struggles. Following Dean’s passing, Sam lives a full life, ultimately reuniting with Dean in Heaven, offering a bittersweet closure to their epic saga.

While many fans desired a different conclusion, with an altered ending due to the pandemic, it nevertheless stands as a testament to the enduring bond between the Winchester brothers and their legacy.

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