When it first aired, Supernatural didn’t start as the epic saga we know today — it began as a modest attempt, almost a “rip-off,” of a classic horror TV show. Kolchak: The Night Stalker — the ’70s series about a journalist uncovering paranormal crimes — was the main inspiration for Supernatural creator Eric Kripke. (tvline.com)
Kripke originally pitched a concept about a journalist traveling in a van, investigating urban legends — an idea that, with dramatic tweaks, became two brothers traveling across America, facing the unknown, demons, and dark folklore. “Honestly,” he said, “it was a rip-off of Night Stalker — but as I developed it, I gave it mythology, made it mine.” (tvline.com)
And so — what started as a simple homage to classic horror turned into one of the most beloved TV shows for fans. Fifteen seasons, the Winchester brothers in leather jackets, demons, ghosts, urban legends — Supernatural became more than horror: it became mythology, family, a legend.
❓ Fan Question:
Do you think Supernatural would have reached legendary status if it had stayed just a “rip-off”?