This past weekend Creation Entertainment held a “Salute to Supernatural” convention in Los Angeles. Producer Eric Kripke and stars Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki all showed up, along with some of the supporting actors fans have grown to either love or hate, Chad Lindberg (Ash), Frederick Lane (the yellow eyed demon), and of course considering her significant other was there, Sandra McCoy (crossroads demon #3).
I got to follow the events the way several of the fans did, with laptop open in the comfort of my living room a few thousand miles away, checking for updates on various fan sites and the convention thread on Supernatural Wiki. One big piece of news came from the convention, putting heated fan speculation to rest. On Sunday it was confirmed what just about everybody had already figured out — Jared and Sandy are indeed engaged. Congrats to them both, and I do scratch my head wondering what type of offspring can be produced from a big, tall man and a petite woman, but considering they’re both very pretty, I’m sure the results will come out favorable.
I’m not going to spend a lot of time commenting on all that happened the entire weekend. If any fans are looking for such info, it’s all very well detailed on Supernatural Wiki. In poring over the pages of comments and panel notes though, one panel got me in a tizzy, and well, I rarely ignore a chance to spout strong opinions, especially on behalf of this show.
Before I go on, I have a standard disclaimer. I’ll do my best to be accurate, but I’m going off of reports made from others as well as some videos that might be considered contraband considering Creation Entertainment didn’t allow audio or videotaping of events. Keep in mind, when dealing with fan accounts, there’s no such thing as a completely objective report. I’m not completely objective, so I’m not holding others to that standard. As a result, I won’t be directly quoting.
Eric Kripke Deserves Our Support
While I’ve always suspected that Eric Kripke has the hardest job in show business, after seeing the responses from his panel, it’s official now. No human should have to endure all the headaches and pressures he has. What’s even more incredible was how he delivered honest answers while still smiling, joking, and showing love for the audience. I didn’t think my respect could grow any larger, but it did in droves.
Article comments
1 - Jess
I'd just like to say that I thought this was a very classy, well written article. I agree with you whole-heartedly. Supernatural is a great show, one that doesn't receive enough support. The CW is a small network, one that at times suffocates Supernatural. It has so much potential as a series and the fact that a low budget gets in the way of that is truly disheartening. It's amazing what the show is able to accomplish with such a low budget. Kripke is a wonderful individual. I too love the passion he brings to the show and appreciate the passion of the fans as well. I do think, above all, that the fans need to trust Kripke's vision before jumping to conclusions though. It's no mystery that the fans aren't pleased with Ruby and Bela, but many fans hated them long before they even appeared in Sam and Dean's world. Kripke has provided us with almost 3 seasons worth of episodes, he hasn't failed us yet, so I believe that we fans should trust his vision and believe that he will only do what is best for the show. If only the network followed the same advice and did the same.
Anyway, Supernatural is the best show on television and deserves way more than it gets. The fans avid support is a true blessing and I think it is clear that everyone involved with the show is intensely grateful for that.
2 - Kel
Thank you so much. Everyone needs to give Eric Kripke the hug he needs, because the downside of a devoted fanbase is possessiveness and danged if we Supernatural fans don't meet the bill. If it weren't for this man, we wouldn't have this show to begin with, and above all, it's his baby. I trust him and would follow him whistling into the gates of hell if that's where the show takes me.
3 - Cindy
Thank you so much for saying all this! I agree about everything. I was at the con and it is still a blur, but Eric Kripke's close relationship to us fans is a rarity in television. He deserves our respect and trust. He is responsible for giving us the best hidden gem on television, after all ;-)
4 - LindsayW
AMEN! I have always trusted in Kripke and ALWAYS respected the show as HIS work, not the fans! Wonderful article. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
5 - Shaula
I really loved your article! I totally agree!
Eric Kripke didn't only needs our respect. He totally deserves that!
6 - Session
I just wanted to say thank you for writing such a great article. I've followed the show from the very beginning and, while I was hesitant when I found out about the additions of two new characters, I've never doubted that Eric Kripke knows exactly what he's doing. He created a damn good show and I'm extremely grateful that he's given me (at least, not to mention countless others that I know) something fun to escape into week after week. Not to mention the time I spend watching the season one and two DVDs when I need that little pick-me-up that only the show can deliver at times. This show has some of the hardest working people involved and it warms my heart as a fan to know that there are professional writers out there that hold the show in such high reguards. Thank you, again for such an awesome article. You inspire me as a fan and an amatur, inspiring writer.
7 - Rene
Awesome article, Alice. It is great to have so many talented writers out there that enjoy Supernatural, you are definitely one of the best. I think us fans should see that Eric Kripke has the best intentions for the show and maybe keep some of our opinions to ourselves or among ourselves. I, who have had issue with the lack of mention of Cassie Robinson, say that because I am convinced that the show's creator as well as the other writers are doing their best to make things turn out well for all involved. They have a vision and I do respect that. I love those Winchesters no matter what and they have my undying devotion, Thanks.
8 - Kayleigh
Thanks for such a great article about our beloved creator. Kripke's love for the show and respect for the fans always makes me love him even more. Whenever I get worried about the show an interview from Kripke always reinstills my confidence in him and the show. He's so hardworking and always pushing for our show. Even though we hold the show high on expectations and take note of all the idiosyncracies, Kripke always has our (the fans) respect.
9 - stella
Thanks so much for looking past the easy stereotype of the show/its fanbase. Your articles are always so well written, informative and just plain terrific!
I was at the LA Con and I entirely agree with your request to respect Kripke and his vision. The man was so charming and sweet; he reminded me of a huge teddy bear (okay, a teddy bear that swears like a sailor but still...) I disagree with some of the show's direction and still feel like the addition of Bela and Ruby seemed forced. But hey, it's Kripke's show. It was clear to me that he spends a whole lot more time online than the one hour a week he admits to. So, if the fans want to give their opinions, fine. But then leave the poor man alone! Or better yet, give him as much credit when something does go right....'Cause if I were him, I think I would be on some serious medication.
Anyways, thanks again and looking forward to reading your future articles!
10 - MCM
Ms. Jester, once again I commend you on your thoughtfully written (and IMO, objective) article on the most amazing television show today. I also appreciate that your observations include the business perspective, further underscoring that sense of balance and objectivity.
Eric Kripke certainly does have a most difficult job and no doubt the show's rabid, intelligent and vocal fanbase contributes to his headaches. Imagine trying to produce a weekly movie on a television budget (on an obscure network, to boot)while maintaining his vision for the show and having to deal with the likes of us on top! I was at the convention and his passion and enthusiasm for the series transcends everything. I just regret his adamance at keeping the series to five seasons, especially since we have been severely shortchanged as a result of the writers strike. He said he plans on directing in Season Four and I certainly look forward to seeing more of his work in that area. (And I would like to add that he is absolutely adorable!)
...and yes, he totally deserves our respect as well as that of TPTB.
Thank you again for your terrific articles and Kripke truly needs to see this one. We fans will ensure that this happens!
11 - Jules
I love how generous Kripke is with his praise of everyone in the show, and also how honeslt reflective he is about what he feels works, and what hasn't. I too want to hug him and say - don't forget what an awesome show you've created!
Also, you may be interested that a keen fan has collected on del.icio.us links to over 500 Supernatural related communities and fansites!
See here for details.
12 - Lea
Really great article, and I loved the one preceding, about the fandom, too! I have to say that I agreed with every word, although I admit, I have been known to criticize--But I do it out of love! I wouldn't criticize if I didn't care.
Anyways, I unfortunately did not get a chance to see Kripke, but from all accounts I've heard, he's a great guy. He's certainly one of the more personable and really authentic people in television today--and he's mostly behind the scenes. It's so unfortunate to hear about all the concessions he has to make for the show, but I'm glad we're still getting something. I would hate to see the show end prematurely, especially after all of the hard work everyone has done from the ground up.
I'm also really glad to hear that there's going to be regular contributions on Supernatural here! I'm glad you're loving the fandom as much as the rest of us. I can't wait to read what you've got up next!
13 - XsarahX
This was an awesome article, well written and nicely put. I feel for Kripke when i read some of the stuff that people (including me at times!) write about whats been put onto screen, especially considering all the factors you brought up such as budget. But hes said himself (dont quote me) that he tends to fixate on the bad comments and overlook the good, he should stop doing that and he would realise the love everyone has for his baby, and how thankful we are that hes the head honcho of this amazing show :)
XsarahX
14 - Andi
I really enjoyed this article. The sensibility you expressed, to me, is what being a fan is all about. We love our show. Our show's creator is talented, committed, generous, and funny, and he certainly does deserve our support. We may not agree with every artistic choice he makes, but we certainly ought to respect them and know that he has made them out of his genuine passion for what he has created here.
I was excited to see that your Supernatural articles are going to be a regular feature as well. It's great to share the love.
15 - Jackie
I completely agree. People need to calm down and trust Eric Kripke that what he does he does for a reason.
People need to trust him more and complain less.
In Kripke I trust.
16 - Amy
Can't help but love the guy. He's created a masterpiece. I wish I could give him a hug too. Great article!
17 - Johanne
Thank you for yet another great article highlighting our wonderful show SUPERNATURAL.
This truly is a show & fandom I am quite proud to belong to.
I agree, Eric Kripke is just a pure genius & I have every bit of faith that this show will go down in TV history because of this man.
18 - Joan
Thank you so much Alice for this wonderful article! I am a huge fan of Supernatural for many reasons and one of those reasons is Eric Kripke. He does love this show deeply and he is truly invested in the show and everything surrounding it. Supernatural is his 'baby' and he nurtures it and cares for it because this show is his vision. I love this man more than I can say. The passion I feel for this show holds no bounds. So thank you Eric for bringing Dean and Sam into my life and for making me believe in television again.
Joan
19 - Lainey
Thank you so much for your article. I was eloquently written and said all the heartfelt messages that all of the fans worldwide (I am from Australia) feel. Your second to last paragraph before "Random Notes" is exactly how I think we all feel.
I certainly feel very blessed that I have had this amazing show in my life, despite being somewhat obesessive about it from time to time. Those is so little quality television on these days that we just want to hold on to those small hours each week that give us a chance to truly relax and escape life after a hard's days work, even if it is only for 1 hour a week.
I am so amazed by Mr. Kripke and I hope that I might be able to tell him one day, in person, how much I appreciate his passion, and his belief, despite the corporate crap he has to go through for 1 episode. We all will be forever grateful to him for Supernatural.
20 - Tiny
We love Supernatural in Australia. Keep up the GREAT work. We love Dean, we love Sam.. and we love Eric and Sara and the whole team!!!
21 - Nana
I stumbled across your article while researching all aspects of the Supernatural fandom and value the insights your article has offered.
You offer some interesting points, for example did I not know that there was an issue with Classic Rock " usually older music is generally cheaper in license fees than current chart music as it is “less popular”.
I agree that WB certainly have a strange strategy when it comes to marketing Supernatural, but on the other hand, if they did allocate more budget to this, they would probably end up enforcing certain policies and monitoring fan websites, maybe even shutting them down or cracking down on fanfiction if they wanted to, so lets not hope it ever gets to the stage it did with Harry Potter.
I live in the UK where ITV puts even less effort into marketing the show than in the states and in Germany for example (where they are still at season 1!) there are maybe 2 major fansites and the network Pro7 again isn’t doing much to promote the show. It’s mind boggling really.
The only thing I thought was missing from your article was Kripke’s opinion on the whole fandom and what the official position is. It would also be nice to understand why even Kripke isn’t promoting himself on his own website (he has one but it’s really more meant to be a joke I guess) and why everything about Supernatural seems to happen under the radar, eg. why can’t they even afford to have their own myspace?
Last but not least let me say that independently form your article, we in the UK had also the idea for a bakesale, and if all false we should join our efforts and help Kripke out.
22 - Alice Jester
Nana, thanks for your long thought out comments. Attacking fan websites is a slippery slope that most networks and studios don't like to go. They usually welcome fanfic, because it promotes their shows. Book publishers have a different mentality, and I'm not sure why.
As for promotion, I think the show is underpromoted in many places, especially the US and UK. The mentality at the networks is it's a "cult" show, and that usually doesn't translate to mass appeal, so why spend the marketing dollars. I don't agree with that at all, but that's the mentality.
Kripke adores the fandom and recognizes that the show has gone as far as it has because of the fans. I've never seen a show's creator more in touch with the fans. I don't think he updates his own website because he doesn't have time! He does have a demanding job. That's why I'm so intruged by this show, normally show creators don't care what us fans think. Kripke has made it known he reads fan feedback.
The bakesale thing was a response to an interview Kripke did once, in which he joked that they could never afford Led Zeppelin unless the fans held "one mother of a bake sale". It was a joke, and yes, certainly not an original idea.
Thanks again for the comments, and it's great to hear about the fan love in the UK.