Interview: Sera Gamble, Producer and Writer for "Supernatural"

By CP Cochran
Published 03/1/2008
Supernatural
Rating: Unrated

CP Cochran

"It's just one of those out-of-our-control things that happened."

The last of Supernatural's pre-strike episodes, "Jus In Bello," has aired. Intense and heavily myth-arc based, the episode leaves fans with a long wait until April 24, when the last four episodes of season three start to air. Sera Gamble, producer and writer for the show, agreed to talk to Firefox News via email about what it's like to get back to work, why the staff is laughing, matching tattoos, savvy fans, and how rough things could get for Sam and Dean Winchester. (Spoiler warning for upcoming episodes).

FFN: How did being on strike affect you as a writer? Were you able to work on any independent projects?
SG: Well, the main effect, of course, was that I had to stop working. And I was involved in a couple of projects that lost momentum -- one might be salvageable, but I'm pretty sure the strike killed the other one. I'm philosophical about that -- I expected it to happen. Almost every writer I know took a hit for the strike. And plenty were fired or had their shows canceled, so all in all I was very lucky. I had a job to go back to. And yes, I did try to use my strike time wisely. I saw the fact that I was barred from writing anything for the studios as an opportunity to work on stuff that I could never pitch as a slick, easily-understandable commercial package.

I picked my favorite weird idea and immersed myself for a few weeks. It worked, too -- the run-up to the strike was hugely stressful, and I was burned out and exhausted. Now, I feel back in touch with why I love writing.

FFN: What's it like getting back to work? Are people charged up? Is it a smooth process picking up where you left off?
SG: By three o'clock on the first afternoon, we were all half-joking that it felt like we never left. I was afraid it would be complete chaos, because we only had three weeks to get up and running before production resumed. But everyone came in focused and ready to make it work. It's actually gone much more smoothly than I anticipated. One funny thing that happened: the first script in the hopper was almost complete before we left work, and it's kind of hilarious in its new context.

It's a light, high-concept episode – shot entirely in documentary style by these bumbling would-be ghost hunters we introduced in Season One. The whole hour is the “pilot” of a cable show called “Ghostfacers!” So it's quite a departure from our usual structure. And it’s completely self-enclosed and breezes right past all the mythology we set up in “Jus In Bello”, which was great when we had lots of time before we had to close in on the end of that arc.

In fact, it was necessary breathing room for our audience before we pounded them with Dean's deal coming due. But being part of the final run of this shortened season, being the first episode when we come back, gives it a sort of importance that it's definitely not engineered for. We all laugh about it -- it's just one of those out-of-our-control things that happened because of the strike, and we rolled with it. I think our audience will too -- they're savvy, and they'll get it. And it's a wildly entertaining episode, so for my part, I'm glad we get to do it. I would have been so sad if the strike went longer and it didn't get shot.

FFN: How will the foreshortened season three affect the stories we'll get in the next four episodes?
SG: Some story threads were condensed, and some were set aside for next season. We had to be creative with the storytelling, but these weren't difficult decisions to make. It was obvious which story had to be serviced: Dean's demon deal. His time’s running out; he’s going to hell. They've got a very short time to try to save him. The Season Finale takes place on Dean’s last day.

FFN: What about season four, are you optimistic?
SG: If this were Vegas and I had $100 in my pocket, I'd put $92 on a Season Four pickup. Then spend the other $8 on a strong drink if I'm wrong.

FFN: On "Dream A Little Dream of Me," Cathryn Humphris has the teleplay credit, and you and she share the "story by" credit. Can you talk about developing the episode and how that co-writing process worked?
SG: “Dream” wasn't a co-writing process so much as a tag-team process. I started it, Cathryn finished it. Basically, I pitched the idea, Eric approved it, and I got to work. A week or so later, Eric popped in and told me he needed me to write the very next episode, so he was pulling me off "Dream" and giving it to Cathryn. It had to do with the time crunch we faced going into the strike. I wrote “Jus In Bello” in a lot less time than we usually have to finish an episode. But I don't want to make a meal out of it, because this sort of thing happens all the time when you're making TV. Time runs out, things get shuffled, writers and directors get reassigned, and you write as fast as you can. It's actually one of my favorite things about the job. I thrive under the pressure of a tight deadline.

And about "Dream" -- I have to hand it to Cat. It was a really peculiar concept to be handed in half-baked form, and I hadn't done an entirely convincing job with the logic of the episode when I handed it over. But Cat tackled it, fixed all the lame bits she'd inherited from me, and made it much better than it was.

FFN: Dean had a break through there, where he realized he didn't want or deserve to go to hell. Meanwhile, Sam said in "Malleus Maleficarum" he thinks he has to become more like Dean. How are things going to develop emotionally for both of them in the next batch of episodes?
SG: Dean may not want to go to hell, but it's looming large. They're scrambling. Trying everything they can think of -- and failing over and over. We've been saying all season that Dean's deal isn't something he can just cleverly wiggle out of. He doesn’t know which demon holds his contract, and even if he did, Bela’s taken the Colt so he has zero leverage. He is deeply screwed. That’s taking a major emotional toll on both brothers.

FFN: In "Jus in Bello" you introduced a new big bad, Lilith. Can you talk about her, give us a hint of what's ahead?
SG: You'll be seeing more of her. And it won't be pretty. In "Jus In Bello" we learned that Lilith is extremely powerful. Flick of her hand, police station explodes. In coming episodes, you'll see that she's also smart. Which is bad news for Sam, obviously.

FFN: Agent Henriksen is a popular character, and his interaction with the Winchesters has been terrific. Please tell me there's a chance he survived!
SG: Well, since you asked so politely... Seriously, though -- even if he didn't survive, since when is death the last we see of people on Supernatural?

FFN: Those matching tattoos are pretty cool. How long has that been planned?
SG: I remember talking about it with Ben Edlund last season, while Cat was writing "Born Under A Bad Sign." We agreed that if we were Sam, the first thing we'd do is take that anti-possession amulet and head for the nearest tattoo parlor. He reminded me of it while we were working on “Jus In Bello,” because breaking out the amulets was an important story point in that episode. So I stuck it in there, and it made for a nice moment. It’s like, of course Sam and Dean have matching tats. How could it be any other way? By the way, I'll be convinced we're truly a cult hit when a fan gets the same tattoo.

FFN: The fans seem divided on Ruby and Bela, some like them and some don't. Do you read the fan reactions online?
SG: Sure, I occasionally go online -- in small portions. And with a grain of rock salt. We sometimes talk about fan reaction in the room, because we're clear that we make this show for the fans. We're not a big, vanilla procedural crime drama that zillions of folks watch while also checking their email and flipping through tabloids and doing their nails; we're a scrappy little genre show with a small audience of incredibly devoted fans. They turn off all the lights, they pop popcorn, they sit down, and they devour the show. I've seen posts that say “Here’s what I noticed the third time I watched the episode.” I mean, you've gotta respect that. Our fans are not fucking around.

So -- all that said, we knew going into this season that we were going to have to win the fans over with the new characters. And we also knew Ruby would be an easier sale -- we find out quickly that she’s a demon. There’s a lot of precedent for demon characters on Supernatural, male and female. And her twist -- her insistence that she is not the enemy -- is intriguing.

As for Bela, the writers were all excited by the idea of her. A person who moves through the supernatural world in a very different way than Sam and Dean, with different goals. I've seen “I HATE HER!” responses, but here’s the thing: we don't want you to love her. She’s a self-interested, wily mercenary who put our heroes directly in the line of fire with no remorse. You're never going to love her. Hopefully, you'll love to hate her. That’s the sweet spot.

FFN: Can you tell us about Ruby and Bela's role the rest of the season?
SG: Ruby is invested in the demon war and in Sam; we'll see more of her in that context. I'm enjoying her role in that story arc, because even though she's proven herself time and again to be a strong ally, there's always that underlying tension. Because she's a demon, and everything Sam and Dean know of demons tells them not to trust her. As for Bela -- well, she swiped the Colt and led Henriksen to the boys, which led to a bunch of demons attacking them. Dean is pretty into the idea of killing her.

FFN: A lot of people want to know if we're going to see Ellen again.
SG: Yup! Season finale.

FFN: Any type of character you'd introduce into the hunting world and haven't been able to yet?
SG: I'm writing the penultimate episode of the season right now, and it introduces a new hunter. I don't want to say too much about him, because today he’s a paranoid survivalist type, but by the time the episode’s finished he might be a friendly female goatherd from Normandy. Each of the writers has an idea or two for a hunter, and we wait to see where we can plug ‘em in. It’s all about waiting for right story.

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Note: You can find out more about Sera Gamble at her website, http://www.seragamble.com. She and a friend also have a blog, Very Hot Jews.

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Comments

Comment #1 (Posted by strangeworld) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, here's some news for you. Bela is not loved to be hated. She's just hated because she isn't working. The sooner you realize this the better. Also, is it possible to make the show about two brothers and not Sam, with his brother Dean? Because isn't that what Kripke offered in the first place? That it's about two brothers? This doesn't mean giving Sam all the arcs, plots and stories and having Dean there to hold Sam's hand, cloak and sword.

Comment #2 (Posted by sciencegeek51) Rating: ratingfull

I fear I must agree with strangeworld about Bela. The character comes across like the villainess in a poor dimestore novel... if it were a male character he'd be twirling his moustache. Viewers can't relate to a one dimensional character, and that's really all we've seen so far. The most successful characters are those that have a built in complexity of character and motive. Even Gordon's jesus freak hunter friend had a more complex characterization than has been given to Bela. If the viewer or reader can't find a common point to connect or relate with a character, then there's no emotional investment. Sorry. We still love the show and watch it closely. It's just that we also tend to grade it as well. It's a darn fine show and it should get better as time goes on.

Comment #3 (Posted by Galveston) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, It sounds like you've got great plans for the rest of the season. Not to worry, we don't all think Dean is getting the shaft in favor of Sam. In fact, most of us don't think that. Dean is the heart of the show, and he's a beautiful, intriguing heart at that. You've done a great job with both brothers, and the scarier Sam gets....the better. Padalecki is electric when you allow him to be scary. Push the envelope. We can take it. :) The balance between the brothers is perfection. As for Miss Bela, I'm afraid I must echo the sentiments of the first two posters. No offense to Miss Cohan personally, but the character DOES. NOT. WORK. I don't "love to hate her." I just hate her. I resent the time Bela takes up on my screen. She's a reminder that Dawn Ostroff forced your staff to add a second female character and that the lovely, incomparably fascinating Ellen was forced out of the picture because of it. Bela is an annoyance and a waste. I don't care about her problems. I don't care why she stole the colt. I don't want her around. The brothers' I.Q's uncharacteristically drop to zero whenever she's around in order to facilitate Bela's supposed brilliance; it's tiresome. Ruby is fascinating. Bela is a disaster; the sooner she's gone the better. Please, please, PLEASE get rid of her.

Comment #4 (Posted by warriorgrrrl) Rating: ratingfull

First off, i think you have done a brilliant job this season as far as the boys go. I got to see my favorite antagonists again, Gordon and Hendrickson, and was sad as hell to see them go. Those two, I loved to hate, although hendrickson won me over in "Jus In Belo". Keep up with Dark!Sam. I looooove Dark!Sam, he has more substance than usual Sam, who already had loads of it. And Dean... The first part of the season, it was kinda funny to see him not care about dying, but now, with his deal coming due, I love him even more. Sensitive!Dean and Anxious!Dean are awesome, and i love to see what Jensen and Jared can do with their characters. Now regarding Bela, I agree with the above posters. She does nothing for me, not like what Ruby does and Hendrickson/Gordon did. She does not fit in well with the boys at all, even if she's not supposed to. Ms Cohen seems like an excellant actress, but her character i despise, and i do not love to despise her. I just plain despise her. If its someone i love to hate, i like seeiing them back on the show. Bela, i do not like to see when she reappears. The sooner she is gone, the better in my opinion. It was not the right time or place to introduce her.

Comment #5 (Posted by Rockerbaby) Rating: ratingfull

Let me say I love everything you talented writers have done this season, with a few exceptions of course. I love that you introduced the idea that Dean might be a daddy, because Daddy!Dean is awesome. :) As for Sam I hope we get to see more of how Deans deal is really affecting Sam since time is running out and he's bound to be getting desperate. Ruby, love her character, she intrigues me, a demon that might be good is interesting, makes you wonder why she isn't a sadistic SOB like the others. Now for Bela, again like those before me I must agree, I don't like her character and I dont like to hate her character. Cohan is a wonderful actress, there is no disrespect here.Now, I loved the idea of Bela before the season started but after having seen what her character acts like, just please no, no more of her, she dumbs down both the boys and makes them seem unintelligent which we all know is not true. I'm glad we get to see Ellen again! Maybe her and Bobby will finally hook up, lol!

Comment #6 (Posted by immie_8) Rating: ratingfull

Firstly, thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview, Ms. Gamble. I am very excited about the upcoming episodes and can't wait to see the return of those two bumbling ghosthunters in Hell House. Secondly, PLEASE SAY we'll see Hendricksen again - SA Victor Hendricksen is a wonderful character and would make a great ally for the boys. Lastly, I too agree with the rest about Bela...sorry, I don't love to hate this character, I just hate her. Here is a character that, IMO, is made up of every cliche that I never wanted (or want again) to see on SN. Please, let your idea of Dean wanting to kill her take a hold and give her one of those bloody deaths that we all know you love writing and then bring on Ellen, a REAL woman who adds SO MUCH to the show!!!

Comment #7 (Posted by elsa) Rating: ratingfull

I'm so very glad to read that the deal plot will end. I think Mr. Ackles is a strong and competent actor and he is doing a great job with Dean, and I still love and watch the show, but I find the deal plot plain boring, I so hope Dean will have something more active to do, I love the emo stuff, but not when is the only thing a character has.

Comment #8 (Posted by tina) Rating: ratingfull

nice interview...and i hate to say it but bela doesnt work sorry! jared is doing an amazing job with sam this year ...with got 2 pretty special actors in this show thank god

Comment #9 (Posted by DJ) Rating: ratingfull

Dear Sera, Thanks for agreeing to this interview. Supernatural is a wonderful show, and the boys are both fantastic actors. I have enjoyed so many things you've written. You are so right that the fans are not fucking around. Particularly when it comes to Bela. Plenty of us were willing to give her a shot. We did it. But RSAM was so completely terrible it just sealed that character's fate. There is no way to make viewers like me ever be willing to watch her. I don't love to hate her. I loved to hate Meg, played by the great Nikki Aycox. Bela does not even come close to that. She cannot be redeemed. I don't care what she does with the Colt, or where she goes, as long as she goes. You are so good at killing off characters, even ones that should stay, like Hendrickson, and Gordon's Jesus-freak friend. For the love of God, please take aim at Bela. Like my granny used to say, "Looks like you done burned that pan of cornbread, and you can't fix it. You're gonna have to bake another one." That means, get rid of Bela by whatever means necessary. Then feel free to bring in another female character that FITS into the show. Just please send Bela back to Hogwarts where she belongs.

Comment #10 (Posted by Melanie) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, Please believe me when I say -- you've missed the sweet spot -- I don't love to hate Bela -- I simply and completely hate her. She's as bad as Jo was in terms of dividing the fanbase. Seriously. Give Dean the fun, smart-ass remarks and move on. I know I can count on you for a lovely gory death for Bela . . . . . . .because for me, there's no saving the character The Kids are All Right is one of my favorites from S3 -- I was glad to see Lisa in DALDOM. Really REALLY looking forward to the rest of the season. SUPERNATURAL is THE best show on TV!! Thanks so much for all the work that you and all the writers do to make it so!!

Comment #11 (Posted by Caroline) Rating: ratingfull

Like the posters above, I love Superantural. Its an excellent and well crafted programme. Ruby I can just about stomach - she fits into the story. Bela, like those above, I don't love to hate her. I just hate the character. She needs to be gone now before her character ruins an excellent programme. Will support Supernatural because of Jared and Jensen and their excellent acting. But not for any other reason and definitely not because of Bela.

Comment #12 (Posted by Samantha) Rating: ratingfull

Great interview Sera. I'm so happy we get to see the Hell House guys again. I have really loved season 3 so far and am anxiously looking forward to how Sam gets Dean out of the deal. I have to agree with everyone else who has posted and say how much I totally detest Bela. I hate how Sam and Dean turn into morons around her and the excuses for sticking her into episodes is getting embarrassing. She can't be redeemed. I don't care what her sob story is and why she stole the colt. I want her gone. Now. And I know you writers can come up with a deliciously gorey death for her. Believe me millions of fans will be cheering during her demise. I must say that I am totally in awe of the way you writers have created the totally believable, complex characters of Sam and Dean and this season has been excellent. Supernatural is the best show on TV. Jared and Jensen are just fabulous actors and make Sam and Dean so real. Thanks for all your hard work.

Comment #13 (Posted by Marie) Rating: ratingfull

Lovely article. I'm so glad that the SPN team is getting back in the saddle. I look forward to the remaining episodes of the season and look forward to a fourth season. This show gets better and better with each episode. Although, I must weigh in on the growing 'hate Bela' thread that is running through the comments. I like Bela, in the love to hate way that Sera was talking about. I do agree that the boys are dumbed down when they are around her, but I totally get her character and like what the writers are doing with her. The flip side is I don't like Ruby at all. Yeah, she's a demon. Yes, she's totally up to no good. She's stringing Sam along, which is obvious. I'm with Dean, she needs to be dealt with. But I totally agree with the sentiment about bringing Ellen back. She's a wonderful character. And while I'm spouting off, I'd love to see a lot more of Bobby as well! Keep up the good work and the fantastic writing.

Comment #14 (Posted by Mandy) Rating: ratingfull

I enjoyed Jus in Belo, but couldn't really love it. The moral argument between Ruby and Dean was set up so that Dean was obviously right and heroic and Ruby was obviously wrong and evil. Having Sam sit by and passively agree with her for no logical or emotional reason was bad writing and bad characterization. Being forced to watch as Sam is given virtually no dialogue while Dean bonds with Henrickson, Nancy, and argues with Ruby while coming up with the big heroic plan made the episode grating for me to watch. I always feel like the show puts Dean on this big heroic pedestal and if he gets a hang nail, it gets pushed to the forefront for every single episode after that. Meanwhile, Sam, who supposedly has this huge mytharc guiding his character, gets slammed up against one wall after another and is virtually ignored by everyone. I can only hope this doesn't happen again in the season finale, as it has in the past. I love Sam and Dean, but I wish I could feel that Sam was being taken care of by the writers the way Dean is. What does Sam like and love? Its such simple characterization, and I keep waiting to see it in the episodes I'm watching. Also, Bela isn't working as a character, period. Its sad, but there it is.

Comment #15 (Posted by emb) Rating: ratingfull

Having read all the other comments, I would have to agree that there is nothing I love about Bela. She's just plain annoying. In fact I tune out whenever she walks onscreen. But that being said I am finding more and more that I really like Ruby. She's a fun character and the mare I learn about her backstory the more excited I am about the role she will playu in future episodes. I think it's a little unfair that Ruby and Bela are always lumped together in these sorts of discussions, because as much as I hope Bela walks into a Hellsgate at the end of the season, never to be seen again, I would be sorry to see Ruby go.

Comment #16 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

I do hate Bela, but for none of the reasons above. It's the voice, thatztupid F@#@ing accent. Is she really British and has just live in the US too long, or is it a poor imitation. One can only wonder. But whatever it is, it makes me cringe every time she opens her mouth to talk. Not since Gwyneth Paltrow in Emma has such an appaling accent been aired. It's as if she was the illegitamate child of the Queen motherr an Madonna. I don't care how long she is on the show for, as long as she speaks as little as possible.

Comment #17 (Posted by Carol) Rating: ratingfull

Hey Sera - thank you so much for doing the interview and giving us a taste of what's coming up in those last few episodes of the season. Dean's last day - the season finale?? Ah, girlfriend, you (all) sure love to inflict the torture. But yessir, I'll be popping the popcorn and turning the lights off and sitting on the edge of my seat. These last 4 episodes have *rocked* and I'm sure the upcoming 4 will do the same. As for Bela - I have to agree with the majority vote. I was more than willing to give her a chance, but right from the get-go I didn't think the execution lived up to the intention. She dumbs the boys down, and no, I don't love to hate her. I find her annoying and an awkward fit. I'll agree with the "cornbread" comparison up above - throw that batch out and start again. Another female if need be, but this one? Needs to go.

Comment #18 (Posted by Steffi) Rating: ratingfull

Here's news to you, Sera, as much as I like you...Bela is a crappily written character. An fans don't hate her because she's a woman; she'd be just as bad as a male character.

Comment #19 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

" The moral argument between Ruby and Dean was set up so that Dean was obviously right and heroic and Ruby was obviously wrong and evil. " I read quite few comments on the fandom that Dean was short-sighted and for this everyone was killed and the next time they should go with the Ruby's plan

Comment #20 (Posted by Jake) Rating: ratingfull

Great interview, good to learn a little more about what's going on behind the scenes. Now, onto my main reason for commenting. I felt like posting this, if for no other reason then to say that not everybody hates Bela, or even loves to hate her. Unlike (what sems like) just about everybody else, I really like Bela, and the role she plays in the Supernatural world. She's not there to make things easier on the boys; she's their to play with them like a cat with a pair of good-looking mice. I also don't think the boys were ever 'dumbed down' to make them easier for her to get to. Judging from what we've already seen, Bela's made a life out of being a con-artist. Sam and Dean are, after all, only human (well, 99.9%, in Sam's case). Despite being trained as hunters, or maybe because of it, Bela is just something that they aren't cut out to deal with, mainly because of the fact that she ISN'T something they hunt. She's a very greed-driven human. Of course, that's just my opinion, but I thought someone should voice support for her (and btw, Red Sky at Morning was one of my favourite episodes this season). Wow, I can't believe I just became a person who bases their entire comment on one issue. PS: I'm ecstatic to hear that Ellen's coming back. I've missed her so much.

Comment #21 (Posted by taintedangel80) Rating: ratingfull

Nice interview. I gotta say though, along with almost every single commenter above me, that your hopes and dreams for Bela just aren't happening. She has been in a lot of episodes so far, and she does the same thing every time. She comes in and makes the boys look stupid then steals something and it on her way. She is annoying, and serves no purpose. After seeing so much of her with no story, I don't even want a story for her now. It would feel pointless. Get rid of her and do it fast.

Comment #22 (Posted by Ali) Rating: ratingfull

Frankly, I hope that neither of the girls is back for S4 (assuming the show gets renewed). Ruby could have been a good character but was badly miscast. I prefer Bela but the character doesn't have nearly enough substance to be in the show as often as she has been. I really hope that the show goes back to its roots, two brothers travelling around the country saving people and hunting things. Add in the story arcs that have been building up plus appearances by Bobby and Ellen and you'll have the perfect show.

Comment #23 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

I love this season more than any other. It has become so much more intense and I love the way the characters are developed. I love Ruby and I do not hate Bela, for me it is a hate relationship. In watching the last episode, I feel that she is good for the "hate" relationship. She is not there to be liked, but to add trouble for the boys. I understand that. What I would like is to see a backstory for her, because everything in "Supernatural" has a backstory, even Demons. I think that may relieve some of the tension, if Bela had a purpose. I think Sam and Dean are doing amazingly and I can't wait to see Sam go darkside and Dean try to save him ^_^ I do not think that either character EVER gets sidelined, and hope that both boys can equally save the day. You're the best!!! p.s. I love your blog

Comment #24 (Posted by nick) Rating: ratingfull

Nice interview, glad to see those "ghost hunters" come back. Even thow everyone else is against it, I like Bela's character. Well I hate her, but I like her in the show.

Comment #25 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Thank you for the interview. I thought I'd have to write something like Marie about Bela. I don't mind her at all, I don't actually even hate her in the love to hate her way. I think that it's funny that someone manages to get one over on Dean and Sam because it doesn't happen often and it should because you can't be ready for everything. I mean the colt should technically be safe locked away in a safe but I think having Bela around means that they have to be so much more careful, which in my oppinion is good. I don't hate Bela at all and have enjoyed the things with her in, Sam's dream made me laugh, her being scared of Dean in Fresh Blood was funny, I even like the whole of Red Sky at Morning, and so on! So yeah I like her and don't hate her at all, think it's great that there is a character who is a pain to them in a different sort of way to past. So Bela does have some support, even if there isn't much of it.

Comment #26 (Posted by Laura Hartwright) Rating: ratingfull

Dear Sara, I don't love to hate Bela, I just hate her and I change the channel whenever she appears on screen. If you take one lesson away from this season, please let it be that you can't just foist a character upon a popular show and expect people to accept her, even as an antagonist. Just face it, she doesn't work and hardly anyone wants her around. You now have the perfect opportunity to fix this mistake and remove her from the show. Please take advantage of it. Thank you.

Comment #27 (Posted by sagan) Rating: ratingfull

Bela is not working and Sera darling, you and Kripke are in denial, unless Bela has made you as stupid as she makes the characters on the show. As for the brothers, I realize this is the Sam Winchester show so I'm not sure what the poster Mandy is complaining about. No doubt when the show returns , it will once again revert to the Sam Winchester show, with Sam the future demon king investigating his mother's past (must be Mary wasn't Dean's mom) his destiny (again Dean has none), his powers, his blood, his this, his that. Cripes Kripke, had you told me before this was going to turn into the SuperSpecialSam show I would have dropped it a long time ago. Sucks to be a Dean fan these days, since once again, anything that is potential for Dean is given to Sam the Great. No, I'm not bitter, why do you ask?

Comment #28 (Posted by Lisa Thorne) Rating: ratingfull

First thing great interview. I think you have done a great job on writing for supernatural. Good luck in future writings. But like the others before me I just don't like Bela at all I don't care for Ruby, but I'll take her. Sorry it seems a lot of people thinks that. Thanks for your time.

Comment #29 (Posted by helen) Rating: ratingfull

I have to say that I agree with most of the above. Being in England means we are behind in terms of story arcs but yet I still don't like either Bella or Ruby from what I've seen. Please bring back Ellen. She was a great addition to the show!!!

Comment #30 (Posted by Mari) Rating: ratingfull

Oh, my God, stop telling me to love to hate Bela! I do not love to hate her, I just plain HATE HER. And I don't hate her actions, I HATE HER CHARACTER. She's poorly concieved, poorly written, poorly acted, and seriously makes Sam and Dean look like out of character morons. Sera, Kripke, Edlund, when are you guys gonna get it? We all hated Gordon's actions and Meg's actions and the YED's, but we loved the characters! It's not about what they do, it's about who they are. And Bela's got to go. P.S. The new "documentary" style episode sounds like it's going to be really lousy. Scrap that!

Comment #31 (Posted by Ignatius) Rating: ratingfull

The writing of Ruby and Bela doesn't just 'dumb down' Sam and Dean, it 'dumbs down' the whole show because the overall story has been convoluted to squeeze them in. It would have been cooler to see Sam's struggle with himself and Dean's desperation if the boys were still largely isolated - perhaps turning to Ellen more? I miss the rather understated element the show used to have. Bela has got to go, the character and the actress is ruining the season for me despite Jared and Jensen's wonderful work. And Ruby is, I agree, horribly miscast. Every time I see her try to be a tough demon I just laugh (or I'd cry). It's so sad that the show's quality has dropped because it was decided to add more sex appeal rather than real organic characters. I would think a woman writer would be really wary of such double standards. But I will watch the show to the end because I love the Epic Love Story of Sam and Dean.

Comment #32 (Posted by Barry) Rating: ratingfull

Sounds great!. Thanks for doing the interview. I am so glad you are still doing the Ghost hunters episode. The rest of the season sounds amazing as always!.

Comment #33 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Dear Sara, Thanks for the great interview. I LOVE the show and have been a fan since the first episode. I must however agree with the 99.9% of other fans and express just how much I loathe the character of Bela- and NOT in a good way. I hate every moment she has been on screen, detracting from other story lines and characters. Please, please listen to the fans and make her go away- kill her if you wish, just get rid of her!

Comment #34 (Posted by Casey) Rating: ratingfull

Thank you for the interview, but I also have to agree with others on here, that I don't love to hate Bela. I wish I did, but sadly I just cannot stand her, and not in a good way. Just about every scene she's in, the boys seem to drop IQ points, and I barely recognize them as the strong, smart characters i've grown to love on the show. It's frustrating to watch, and is just plain not working.

Comment #35 (Posted by Maxymama) Rating: ratingfull

It's like Sera has been spying on me when I watch SPN. How else could she have described my night perfectly, with the lights turned off and everything? She did fail to mention my scaredy-ass flight from the basement and to the nearest light switch after each show though.

Comment #36 (Posted by Jane Bragg) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, Thank you for taking time for this interview. I'm excited about the next 4 episodes!! Sounds like we have alot to look forward to and as usual will not be disappointed. I will be glad to see the 2 ghost hunter back from season 1. That was a fun episode. I'm also glad that Ellen will be back in the season finale. As for Bela, I have little problem with her. I see her for what she is, and that's a constant thorn in the side of Sam and Dean. They don't look dumb around her they are just focused on what they do which hunt evil and she is something they don't know how to deal with. Although we know that Dean says humans are just crazy. Ruby is another matter entirely. It makes me so mad how she is messing with Sam. I know this is part of Kripke's plan, but I hate to see her doing it. She is a character that you can love to hate. Maybe Dean will wake Sam up to the truth before she does to much damage. We'll see. I just want you to know that everyone is doing a great job. I'm glad you'll are back doing what you do best. Keep up the good work!!! I'll keep watching.

Comment #37 (Posted by Cindy L.) Rating: ratingfull

Dear Sera, I'm sorry, but Bela is not a 'love to hate' character, unlike Meg. She is very poorly written. Fanboards are filled with hatred for her, and not due to jealousy. Fans hate her because she's just badly written, to the point where other characters around her end up being badly written too. Gordon never needed help finding Sam and Dean before. He would never have backed down when she refused to help him, he would have hurt or shot her. Dean would never be so stupid as to give her his location, he would never think someone who shot Sam was hot, and Sam would never think someone who shot him and endangers the lives of others as 'stylish', or worthy of a wet dream. That particular dream, in fact, cause my college age daughter to turn the show off and storm out- and she is a Dean girl. She no longer watches any episode live, and will only view it after I have watched it and assured her that Bela is not in the episode. Bela is driving fans away and causing a lot of in fighting on the boards. You and Eric have both said that you love to insert your own words in her mouth and make little jibes at the characters. As writers you should both be highly aware of the mary Sue trap, but it seems like you have both fallen into it. If Bela is on next season, I believe the show will be losing yet another household, which will be very sad, considering how much we have supported and pimped this show.

Comment #38 (Posted by Rooky Kadell) Rating: ratingfull

Welcome back Sera !!!!It's so good to have you back from the Strike cause i can't wait to see the rest of Season 3 ...thanks for updating us of the latest news on'Supernatural' particularly on those last four new episodes which we have to wait till the 24th April to see them ...so it is going to be definitely a short season finale with Season3 and we'll finally know what's going to be Dean's fate with the demon's deal in the last season finale episode... It's too bad that we have to be cut short of Dean's deal with a short season finale...it just not right !! i was still hoping that there will still be a small chance the writers will be working hard enough to give us a full season finale of 22 eps despite the strike's intervention ...but now as you said this will be it the last four episodes..i'm just sad that we will have to be ok with it and wait till next April24.....God what a long wait!!!! as for Bella same with me, i just can't stand that b.... she's such a spiteful character who cause nothing but trouble to our boys ...how can she steal the colt when Sam & Dean saved her life in (RSAM) they should have left her to die!!! oh Please Please Sera make her disappear for the rest of season 3...I don't 'love to hate her ' I just despise her and so are most of the fans !!!So Please Sera it's time to get rid of her ..Bella is just so evil ...Ruby is not that bad as long as she is there to help our gorgeous boys ....or 'if' she is really as she still a demon so far as know her....Thanks Sera for your awesome interview...i just want to wish our beloved Jensen a 'Very Happy Birthday' ...All the Best Jensen and Good Luck in the future!!!!

Comment #39 (Posted by Chris) Rating: ratingfull

As a guy, I can get the idea of adding two hot girls to the show, but I think it aint working for this show. I find Bela (the character, not the actress who plays her) to be just a bad BAD CHARACTER. She's kind of jarring, and takes you out of the moment, you know? Bela seems kinda like a knock off. She doesnt seem like she should be on SN. Maybe you could give the actress her own show, and call it Relic Hunter. Oh wait, nevermind.

Comment #40 (Posted by K.T. Barnes) Rating: ratingfull

I'm not worried about Bela. She's a rat. Fine. But Ruby's a whole other matter. SN is apparently trying to beatify this evil killer and, by so doing, undermine basic moral principles. Ruby has proven herself an ally again and again? Just how has she done that? By mocking Sam for feeling remorse over killing two human meatsuits? By lying to him about her ability to save Dean? By demanding a girl be savagely slaughtered so the boys and others could save their own necks? History's full of Rubys who prove themselves "allies" by trying to convince followers to write off the deaths of innocent people as "collateral damage" and commit murder for the sake of expediency. To hold Ruby up as an "ally" to the Winchesters is to threaten the moral integrity of the show, as well as the heroic quality of Sam and Dean. I'm sorry to hear that Ms. Gamble has been entrusted with the job of writing "the penultimate episode." Mr. Kripke is passing the buck to a mediocre writer who may well destroy this series, not the least because of her apparent inability to distinguish between the good and the demonic.

Comment #41 (Posted by Erin) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, no. Just please, no. No more Bela. No trying to save the character. If you wanted us to love to hate her, you should have made the boys regard her as a serious antagonist, instead of saying she 'has style' (while she's ripping off an old woman and endanger a whole town- yeah, like Sam would think like that). Its pure sexist of you to let her always win, make the boys seem stupid, and never kick her butt for what she's done. If she was Gordon, they'd have beaten the crap out of her or gotten her out in jail by now. Not just stand around looking stupid and acting stupid. Any episode she is in I wont watch. Because every time she is on screen, no one acts like they are in Supernatural anymore.

Comment #42 (Posted by Mark) Rating: ratingfull

Thank you for taking the time to do this interview, Sera. I am very excited for the rest of the season to air in April, and for the return of the Season 1 characters. As for the Bela issue everyone is mentioning in their comments above, I'll say, from the male point of view, that she's only good to look at. Most fans seem to hate her because she's annoying, not because they love to hate her. She is forced into the episodes and she would have been much better in 1 or 2 episodes tops. She needs to get knocked down a peg if we ever see her again, because it is getting unrealistic that the Winchesters would let their guard down so low that they've now let her get 4 items from them, and she's led several men out to kill/jail them. Sorry, I just don't believe it. Season 1 Sam and Dean would have never let the situation get this far out of hand. But I'm so glad to hear that Ellen is returning, and Dean's deal will be taken care of.

Comment #43 (Posted by Shinigami) Rating: ratingfull

I'm hate to break it to you Sera, but Bela is JUST. NOT. WORKING. I will never "love to hate her" like I did Meg,YED, and Gordon since they were REAL antagonists who took on the Winchesters without dropping their IQ and getting them OOC, unlike this bait-and-switch Mary Sue that we ended up getting. Also, I think it says a lot about the quality of the character when you can edit out her scenes in an episode and not miss anything of importance. And like you yourself said Sera, we fans "don't fuck around", so quit fucking with us already and drop Bela for good.

Comment #44 (Posted by Rooky) Rating: ratingfull

Hi Sera !!! thanks for this aweome interview ...It's so good to have you back after this long strike ...i really appreciate you updating us with the latest of 'Supernatural' four last new episodes which we will have to wait till the 24th April ...what a long long wait!!!....too bad that there won't be a full season 3 finale with 22 episodes which i was still hoping to get from you guys despite the intervention of the strike.... well it's ok ...i 'm a bit disappointed about it cause you have to shorten the season finale with Dean's illfated deal with the demon....poor Dean god one year to live and now he has to go to hell even shorter than expected ....come on Sera how can you do that with Dean?!!!as for that b....Bella....no offense Sera!!!i just despise her ....she is full of evil and cause nothing but trouble for our boys....Please Please Sera ....she is so hated by all the fans ...it's about time you got rid of her...please Sera make her disappear for good !!i just can't stand that Bella the witch character!!!!... And I just want to wish Our Beloved Jensen a 'Very Happy Birthday' ...All the best and Good Luck in the future Jensen!!!!you are such a great amazing actor!!!Many thanks for your incredible hard work on Supernatural and for keeping us entertain each week with this phenomenal show!!!!

Comment #45 (Posted by Lanie) Rating: ratingfull

Bela isn't a well-written enough character for us to love to hate her. It doesn't help that she is played by an actress who doesn't have a shred of charisma or presence. A performer must be at the top of their game to pull off a roll as a great villian. I thought I could never be as annoyed by a character as I was when Oliver was added to "The OC". Suprise! Bela has surpassed Oliver. The writers on that show were smart enough to quickly write out their mistake.

Comment #46 (Posted by Alex) Rating: ratingfull

I guess I too will chime in on th whole Ruby/Bela issue. Let me start by saying I thought they both had great potential in theory. However the execution has been, on a rare good day, underwelming for them both, but for different reasons each. On the Bela front, it's the character that bugs. When first introduced I thought, like Sera and I guess the whole writing team, she was going to be a hoot. Being a totally new POV of the hunting world. But the character is repetative, most of the time useless, annoying and downright dislikable. I'd say the key to have character you "love to hate" work is that you need to give the audience reason to care about them on some level, and with Bela we've gotten none of that. So we're almost done with the season and I find myself not caring one bit about her and wanting ever to. That ship has sailed. Give her all the sob stories you want but there is no way to win us over. Too little, too late! I'l admitt Lauren Cohan does what she can with the material, because she is a good actress, but it's just not working. On the Ruby front it's quite the oposite. The character is compelling, interesting and very well incorporated in the show. Again, quoting Sera, she was definitelly an "easy sell," because even when you don't like her and what she's doing she A) still meshes well with show and B) she's a demon and that justifies and explains a lot, enough to give her pass on several things. But here it's Katie Cassidy who can't tackle the material. She's not talented or experienced enough to pull this role off, and it's not due to the lack of trying. Because she is and I acknowledge and respect that, but she is doing the character a great disserveice and not allowing it to live up to it's full potential.

Comment #47 (Posted by SushiJeanette) Rating: ratingfull

To begin with, i disagree with most of what people have to say about Bella. If nothing else she adds conflict to the show and, lets be truthful here, the main point of the show is to overcome obsticals, and the more conflict, the more intresting the overall story line is. In my opinion, she makes the plot lines more difficult, which, in turn. makes it far more intresting. This show would not be nearly as good if things didn't go wrong and she does a wonderful job at making their jobs harder while adding some humor and getting a rise out of both of the boys. The love/hate relationship between Bella and Dean, and the new found lust from Sam for Bella adds new twists and overall more depth. I feel that she is doing a great job at what she does (which is to get a rise out of our boys). I personally think we should give her a break and see where this goes. I do have a prediction though, before I finish the book that i have written lol. I do not think that the boys will find a way out of the deal. I personally believe that John will do something and save his son. I don't know how or when but, as a faithful viewer and fan, I know that John is NOT going to let Dean go to hell. I'm so excited to see how it plays out but I would steak all my chips on John commin back to save the day. Its what he does. Sera, Eric, and all the other writers in that small little cramped room, you do an awesome job and I'm rootin for many more seasons. Also, to Jared and Jensen, I will not say that your hotties (mind you u are, but everyone and their dead sisters say that). I will say this. You are great actors, you work hard and you take pride in your work. As long as you keep that up and continue to give it your all, everything will work out. Just have some faith and dont listen too much on what other people have to say. Just do what you guys (all of the cast and crew) do best and I'm sure that you have nothing to worry about. Good luck, and God Bless. SushiJeanette

Comment #48 (Posted by Kiran) Rating: ratingfull

I think I am possibly one of the few people who like Bela. I love her attitude, I love how she's a pain in the ass, and I love how she challenges Dean. She's the one person that Dean can't seem to win against. Ruby is a simple story, she's a demon. But Bela's character still has depth because no one knows why she is the way she is. And I also love how she's not a hunter or a demon. She's just a normal human who decided "People would pay a shit load of money for this." The idea is just so simple that I never would've thought of adding a character like that. She's also pretty smart and it shows that the Winchester's are NOT geniuses, they are just guys with good training and experince. They can fuck up too, and the fact that it is a female ownin' them is pretty cool. And I think that if everyone hates her THIS MUCH, then the writer's are doin' their jobs and so is Lauren Cohan. Cause your not suppose to like her, she's a bitch. If it wasn't working, she wouldn't affect the fans as much as she does. They would just say "Oh, it's HER again" and completely ignore her, kinda like I did with Jo. So obviously, they're doing something right. Pero that's just my opinion. But on another note, I do love the fact that they're bringing back the "What would Buffy do?" guys. I thought they were funny and just very likeable. A show like Supernatural needs an episode that's just fun and for comedic purposes. And I LOVE how they didn't make Ruby and Bela love interests for the boys. Don't get me wrong, I like both characters, but if they began dating the boys, the show would lose it's edge. It would become about relationships and not about two brothers killing paranormal creatures. Kind of like Charmed when they just sort of stopped saving innocents. The show is about TWO brother's and it should stay that way.

Comment #49 (Posted by Lyn) Rating: ratingfull

The article is fine. However, Ms Gamble seems to contradict herself from the last interview she did just after the strike started. At that time she was gung ho on doing a "redemtion" episode for bela. Now, she is once again spouting the same spiel that Kripke and co. having been feeding us since the intro of this useless character; that we are supposed to "love to hate her". I think it's pretty clear that most fans just hate her as a character. She might have worked had she been used extremely sparingly, like 2 or 3 episodes in one season. But, the overkill of the use of her has been the death knell for bela. She has become cliche as other posters have stated, she cons the Winchesters, steals from them and they stand gaga around her as she does it. This takes meaningful story time away from the boys and makes them look like adle brained teenagers. ruby at least has a purpose to being there. But, the use of her in so many episodes has also watered down the importance of her character. Showing up occasionaly would have made her more mysterious and possibly more interesting (along with an actress who could actually act!). Instead she has been shoved in to as many episodes as the crew could fit her into and as such has spoiled the season for me. I still love the boys and I am sorry that this had to happen this year. I'm afraid I won't be watching when the new eps. appear in April. This show is not the show that I fell in love with in season one. The insistance by Gamble and Kripke that these new interlopers have added so much to the show has disappointed me greatly. I enjoy Bobby, but I wouldn't want to see him every week either. Gordon, Hendrickson and Meg were all used to great effect, s p a r i n g l y.... The show is supposed to be about two brothers traveling the countryside, "hunting things and saving people". But, this season it's taken and left turn and I don't care where it's headed anymore.

Comment #50 (Posted by Malcom) Rating: ratingfull

I gave the article a lower rating due to this comment: FFN: The fans seem divided on Ruby and Bela, some like them and some don't. Do you read the fan reactions online? Thats quite the silly understatement. Divided implies something like a split down the middle. From where I'm sitting, it doesn't look like an even split at all. It looks to me more like an 8/2 out 10 split. I personally find the idea of inserting two new female regualrs at this point both bizarre and uncalled for, as well as intrusive, at the least. Most fans don't believe Kripke intended Ruby from the start, because the SN universe was written as closed and isolated from day one. And everyone knows that Bela was forced in by CW execs, and it shows. In the same year that you have Dean dying, you somehow find it 'funny' to have a character who constantly degrades him. Thats like kicking puppies Sera. Sick and dying puppies. In the year that Dean is dying and is on limited time you guys felt a need to shove more characters into the show? Detract from whats important? Make Sam turn and talk to Ruby rather than to Dean? Make both boys suddenly inexplicably stupid? Toss weird comic episodes that have nothing to do with the important arc in there? As for the 1st of the new Four, I'm really sorry to hear you'll be going with a comedy that has NOTHING to do with the show in at this point. Your fans are adults, and we don't need a break. We've had MONTHS of breaks, and are going to have nearly 2 MORE months before we get these last four. We do not want or need a 'break' for Petes sake! We need quality storytelling that embraces Sam and Deans important arcs and addresses them. Not silly inconsequential comedies. I for one am very disappointed to hear this news. But given how much of the earlier part of S3 went, I guess I should have expected more pointlessness.

Comment #51 (Posted by Lisa) Rating: ratingfull

As much as I doubt this is being read by anyone who might make a difference to the show (especially this far down the comment-line), I must say, I too change the channel whenever Bela comes on the screen. Okay, actually, I throw popcorn at the TV, sit up, and tap my foot waiting for her to go away, and if she doesn't, *then* I turn the channel. You know, I caught up on quite a bit of The Office while not watching my "favorite" show. And then I went on to reading spoilers (which I hate), to get an idea of how much she would be in an episode before deciding whether to watch it live (otherwise, it was after, so I could have the fast-forward option). Suffice it to say, I'm not fucking around, but I *am* fucking annoyed.

Comment #52 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, you have written some of my favorite episodes of the series, which is why I'm disappointed to hear that you expect the fans to "love to hate" Bela. We gave her a chance. She served her purpose in "Bad Day at Black Rock." There is absolutely NO reason for her to have returned at all, let alone multiple times this season. Are we really supposed to believe that the strong, intelligent, competent brothers of the first two seasons would be so stupid as to keep letting their guard down around her? Give her their phone numbers? Let her into their motel room? As a fan from day one, I'm offended. Congratulations. Dawn Ostroff has won.

Comment #53 (Posted by Kareena) Rating: ratingfull

Wow, I can't believe there are complaints that this is turning into the Sam show. Sam has been walking around like a lifeless zombie for way too many episodes now. He's supposedly chosen to lead this demon army, but there's nothing so far. Give him something to fight against! We've seen Dean's character go through so much realization this season, and it was totally awesome. Now please give Sam some life! And I have to agree with the majority of the comments here. Bela feels very out of place and her scenes definitely take me out of the Supernatural bubble I watch the episodes in.

Comment #54 (Posted by Heather W.t) Rating: ratingfull

This will never get read and my opinion will never matter on this show but I'm going to say it anyway. Bela is not working out for the numerous reasons given above. The character had great potential and I was all for her when I first heard about the idea of her - but it's just not coming through on screen. All we see is exactly what has been stated previously - the guys acting they don't have a lick of sense; doing NOTHING in retrubition to all that she's done; and a character that we just cannot get into, unlike the true antagonists of the past - Meg, the YED, Gordon. But none of this matters because, honestly, as much as they say this is a show FOR the fans it's hard to tell anymore.

Comment #55 (Posted by sharilyn) Rating: ratingfull

For me Bela has almost ruined season 3; I've gotten to the point that anytime she is in an episode, I feel my jaw tightening up, get a nasty little clutch in my chest and think to myself, "God, not her again!" I can't deal with her on the show AT ALL, in ANY capacity. Please, please, why do you kill off a great character like Henriksen and let that horrible, useless, intrusive Bela bitch keep living to f*** up episode after episode!! Sigh. I despise her so, so much, and as others have mentioned, not in a good 'character we love to hate' way. I despise how moronic the boys become around her, how these supposedly well-trained and savvy hunters suddenly forget how to keep their guards up around her when they KNOW she can't be trusted...geez, it's embarrassing to watch how brain dead the boys become in any Bela episode. And anyone who says she doesn't make them look stupid but that it just shows how clever Bela is is so missing the boat. Maybe if her character was charismatic enough or even slightly believable, yeah; but anytime she is on screen, the Winchester boys' iq's DO seem to drop alarmingly. And why do they suddenly have to have everyone ELSE'S help with practically every single hunt this season? Did Sam suddenly forget how to research, did Dean forget how to be a badass hunter so that he needs to go whining to Bela for help, even after she shot his brother and had his beloved Impala towed? Argh!! I almost gave up on season 3 completely, I've been so distraught with how 'off' some of the episodes have seemed; but the last 3 episodes somewhat revived my hope and passion for this show I completely adored the first 2 seasons. So I just pray someone will kill Bela off SOON, and for those who whine that either Sam or Dean gets more attention on screen or more character development or whatever, I think over all the boys are pretty equally represented and I love them both with all my geeky, middle-aged heart, sigh.

Comment #56 (Posted by Rain) Rating: ratingfull

For the love of God, please kill off Bela and Ruby asap. You have the bad habit of killing off the interesting characters and keeping the cardboard villain and the horribly miscast. The sooner the skanks are gone, the better. This show is not One Tree Hill. We are watching for the guys, not the T&A. So far all these characters have done is make Sam and Dean look like imbeciles. Just how stupid do you think SPN's fanbase is? When Ruby and Bela come on screen we change channels. Please get a clue soon. The characters of Ruby and Bela grate on every nerve I have, and not in a good way. If they are around next season, you can bet a lot of us won't be.

Comment #57 (Posted by Chelsey) Rating: ratingfull

Thanks for the interview! The last 3 episodes sound like they're going to be jam-packed excitement! But Sera, if you read so many "I HATE BELA!" comments, wouldn't you guys have gotten the hint that - she's not working with the fans? "I occasionally go online -- in small portions. And with a grain of rock salt." -- Maybe if you took the fans' comments seriously, you would know that there are many legitamate reasons beyond "I HATE HER" as to why we don't like her.

Comment #58 (Posted by San) Rating: ratingfull

I have to agree with the majority of other posters here: Bela does not work in this show. It's not all the girls being 'jealous', it is all those 'savy' fans recognizing when something is wrong. Give all the smart assed comments back to Dean where they belong - PLEASE - maybe that will stop some of the whinging about Dean not being 'treated equally'. Gad, he's had many, many more episodes devoted to his 'inner workings' and we still don't see what is going on inside of Sam - hell, we don't even know what kind of music he likes. I don't believe Kripke ever said the brothers were going to be the 'same' or 'both have powers'. Obviously some fans are missing all the fine nuances of Jensen's acting if they think this is the Sam show. Ruby's character 'works' although a better actress could really rock the role. But Bela does not fit and every time people try to write her, she becomes that dreaded "Mary Sue' mentioned above and changes the show. Get rid of her soon: no back story, no 'oh she was so wronged'.. just go. More Bobby and Ellen would be greatly appreciated, because they fit. I 'loved to hate Henrickson, Meg and Gordon' because they were well written and fit in the show. The idea of Bela was good - the actual manifestation - really, really bad.

Comment #59 (Posted by Athena) Rating: ratingfull

Thank you for doing the interview. I imagine that you're quite busy catching up from the strike and we appreciate the time. However, since you respect the fans as much as you say you do...please listen to them. The fans love to hate characters like Gordon, YED, and MEG. We love to watch interesting characters like Ash, Henricksen,Sara, etc... Unfortunately you all kill the good characters that we would enjoy seeing developed further and bring in new characters that we not only hate to watch but do damage to the show as a whole. Also, there is much fan love for Bobby and Ellen and instead of making them a bigger part of the show, you insult our intelligence by bringing in these two chickie characters. I can tolerate Ruby, but my family and I discuss ways that we'd love to see the two of them killed off in the season finale. You want ratings? Kill those two off in the last episode and you'll have fans raring to go for season 4!

Comment #60 (Posted by marie) Rating: ratingfull

Sera! great interview. BTW...Supernatural is a "cult tv show". I got the boys' protection tattoo done this afternoon.:) Bela was a great idea, but we're tired of the Winchesters suddenly being stupid when she's around. I liked the idea, liked the actress, but her story lines weren't great. I'd love to hate her, but it's just not working so far. PLEASE don't kill Ellen or Bobby!!! they totally rock and they add a lot to the show. I've missed Ellen this season. Hope she comes back soon. Can't wait for new episodes. I miss Henrickson already...he would have made a great hunter and ally for the boys. Thanks for doing the interview! Ready for new episodes!!

Comment #61 (Posted by lillise) Rating: ratingfull

Like everyone else, I'd like to say thank you Sera for your time. I'm really excited about Supernatural's return. And like everyone else, I completely agree on the Bela situation. I don't love to hate her at all!! I just hate her. She doesn't not fit into the show and is unfortunately written poorly. No offense to Ms. Cohen but Bela needs to go and quickly. I loved to hate Meg, Gordan and YED but Bela is in no way as great as a character as they all were. I fear if you and Kripke continue down this particular road with Bela and force her onto the fans though you know a majority hate her, hate her... you will lose fans, allienate your core fan base that fights non stop for Supernatural and you will also be bringing an excellent show down as well.

Comment #62 (Posted by April) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, thank you for taking the time to do this interview. We fans surely do appreciate it. I suppose that all I can say is that while I still love this show and think that it is the best program on television, I am getting really tired of Bela getting one over on our boys week in and week out. Dean and Sam are not stupid. Anyone who watches this show knows that Dean Winchester would not have let that bitch live after she shot Sam. Let alone after she had the Impala towed. Let freaking alone after she turned them in to both Gordon and Victor Henriksen. My point is that Dean would have smoked her a long time ago. That was in the show that I wa accustomed to watching. Season Three is not the show that I am accustomed to watching. You can't tell me that Dean would have given her his cell phone number, let alone answered it if she called him. Don't EVEN get me started on that whole freaking Bela/Sam debaucle. I still need to Clorox both my eyeballs and my brain but good whenever I think of that train wreck. Yuck, Yuck, and Double Yuck! You have two of the finest actors on television at your disposal. Let them shine. Give them good scripts. Get rid of stupid idiotic secondary characters who no one gives a toss about. I hate to say it, but these two bimbos make me long for the days of Jo Harvelle and anyone who knows me knows that's really saying a lot.' Thanks for listening. Oh and one more thing, I have thought all along that Dean was going to die. I hope that Sam and Bobby work together and bring him back as quickly as they can, so we can move on to Season Four. By the way, Lilith is nasty. Good job with her.

Comment #63 (Posted by Grey) Rating: ratingfull

The "Dean/deal" plot is getting mildly boring. I'm no longer worried that Dean might go to Hell...never have been. Instead, I find myself wondering what roll Sam (and his having demon blood in him) will play in breaking the deal. While some feel Sam's storyline overpowers that of Dean's, it is only because Sam's storyline is so strong. In actuality, I've found myself desiring more Sam-time (I'm a Sam lover...can't help it!). Dean gets the funny one-liners...Sam gets to roll his eyes. Dean gets to kill the bad guys and relish in his hunting skills, Sam gets to pass him a look. Even when Dean and Sam arrive at a hunt together, there always arises for Sam some pale reason to leave the scene, and he never returns until Dean has single-handedly accomplished in vanquishing the evil. It was the brothers, together, that made me fall in love with SN in Season 1. I hope to follow both their stories equally, and for this reason welcome the introduction of a more evil Sam. This should provide for Jared more opportunity to be the talented actor he is, and not just the eye-roller. As far as Bela and Ruby are concerned, I feel both still have great potential. I do wonder if fans are giving up on Bela a bit too fast. There might still be a chance to resurrect the strength of such a character in season four, because, as we all know, season four remains a mystery for which all viewers are thirsting. There's no telling what might happen from here! For me it's Ruby who doesn't quite cut it. However, I think that fault lies with the actress. She's not dark enough or something. I can't put my finger on it.

Comment #64 (Posted by Sacha) Rating: ratingfull

We hate Bela, we don't love to hate her, we just hate her, and here is why. Every time she is in an episode, the boys act very out-of-character. They should have killed her by now. They would never CONTACT her for anything, certainly not after she shot Sam and sent Gordon after them. They always have to be written as if they're idiots so she can get one over on them and that is NOT the Winchester boys. For instance, in Dream, Dean would NEVER have opened the safe with her there. I don't think Dean and Sam would have ever even put the colt in a safe in a motel room! That's stupid! Sam would have an erotic dream about someone who shot him and almost got he and Dean killed? NO he would not! That is NOT SAM! Sam might have erotic dreams about Jess, or Sarah, or maybe even Angelina Jolie or Brad Pitt, but Bela??? NEVER!!!! And that lame 'Nice to see you Bela' line? OUT OF CHARACTER!!!! We loved to hate Gordon. We loved to hate Hendriksen. We loved to hate Meg and Azazel. But Bela - no, we just hate her. Oh, and we don't like Ruby either. We don't want good demons. We have good vampires, 'good' werewolves, and 'good' spirits. We want Dean and Sam to be able to kick demon ass without this good or bad, wishy-washy. touchy-feely bullshit. After this season, PLEASE drop all of the demon crap and get back to urban legends!

Comment #65 (Posted by Erin) Rating: ratingfull

Dear Sera ~ Thank you for taking time to give this wonderful review! We've missed you, girl, and I love the stories you tell. Believe me, we are all on pins and needles to see what happens in the next 4 episodes - and with Lilith! There is so much mythology about "Lilith" that it will be interesting to see which and what is incorporated into the SPN myth. :-) Hendrickson - ah, such a worthy adversary. I'll miss him like I miss Gordon Walker, just because he *was* such an excellent and believable adversary. Per Sam and Dean - I'm not at all bothered by Dean seeming more up-front while Sam is sort of looming in the back. To my eyes, the *idea* is that Sam is unknowable just now, he's a mystery to all of us: where is his head, what choices will he make, will he go "darkside" to save Dean? "Dream" finally did give us a look in his head, and dang, what a tormented and scary place it was. Per Bela ... I hate to climb on any bandwagons, but I don't love to hate her - I just plain hate her. As the wife of an ex-cop/former Marine, I find her a loathesome traitor who would sell babies to the barbarians if it served her purpose. Please, PLEASE don't let her win again. The boys need to get smart, now and start winning against her. And yeah, if she outsmarted herself to death, that would be satisfying as hell. ANYhow - the rest? Sounds great. I cannot wait and I'll do all I can to promote the best cult show on TV. ..... And I'll think about that tattoo. *g*

Comment #66 (Posted by Amalthia) Rating: ratingfull

I'm not a fan of any character that comes along and makes Sam and Dean stupid. cough..Bela...cough Having said that Ruby is the character I hate more. The actress can't act and I've pretty much HATED every episodes she's shown up in. Kate isn't Ruby she's just Kate posing as Ruby. I think I'd be a very happy camper if a better actress was found for the role of demon leading Sam into temptation.

Comment #67 (Posted by Anna) Rating: ratingfull

Hi and thanks for doing the interview, it makes a change to see the show from a writers perspective. I have read the above posts. I have to agree Bela does not work for me. I neither love or hate the character. I find her very frustrating, so find myself other things to do while she in on screen. I always leave the show on, we always need the ratings. I thought Ellen would have been more involved this season. I realise Kripke did not like the whole roadhouse thread, but that was no reason to miss out on Ellen growing on the show. I love the show very much and will always show my support. Thank you to all who put their heart and soul into making it what it is, as you can see it does not go unnoticed. By the way give Sam some way of helping himself. If he has demon blood in him that should still be there, so in turn he should still have his abilities. I am beginning to wonder if either Winchester will survive this season. Thanks again from one of those rabid fans you all love to hate.

Comment #68 (Posted by jan) Rating: ratingfull

This season has been a really big disapointment I don t think Gamble Kripke and Edlund are writing for the fans I think they are writing for themselves and some times mock the fans as for Bella where do you start.

Comment #69 (Posted by Sapotille) Rating: ratingfull

Thanks for the interview. I am a french fan (sorry for my english) and agree with the posters about Bela. I don't hate her but I find her character too caricatural. She is just obsessed by money and greed. We don't know anything about her : her past, the reason of her behaviour, her purpose... no explanation and the worse is that I don't want to know now because it's too late ...I just want her to leave the show. My opinion about Ruby is quite different : i love the character and her influence on Sam and his dark side... I want to know more about her : her real purpose ! She offers many possibilities with the scenario... look forward to seeing her again !

Comment #70 (Posted by Roxanne Mackenzie) Rating: ratingfull

I know this is falling on deaf ears but there is nothing at all worth my effort on Bela. Hell I am barely letting Ruby pass. Bad idea. Bottom line end of story. I would give my second born for Ellen to be a "regular" even bring Jo back. The Jo we got at the end of season 2 should have been the one all along and you guys missed that. Never the less while many of us are screaming and begging to get rid of the ridiculous and bring back the real heart of the show sadly its never gonna happen. The fan fic writers are churning out better stuff than what we got this season. At least we arent treating Dean like a 5th wheel.

Comment #71 (Posted by Deb) Rating: ratingfull

Nice to see Sam getting a look in, in what is always the Dean show

Comment #72 (Posted by donilou) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, please believe me when I say I will NEVER love to hate Bela. That ship sailed a long time ago, in "Red Sky..." As for Ruby, please find her another meatsuit ASAP, the current one is not doing the job. Thirdly, much as I love the "Hellhounds", with only four episodes left in this season, it's just wrong to waste any of them on a stand-alone comedy episode or the introduction of another hunter. I believe a resolution to Dean's deal within the specified time-frame is more important.

Comment #73 (Posted by Shan) Rating: ratingfull

Well as evidenced by all the previous posts - you can't please everyone. I found this show at the end of season 2 and absolutely fell in love with it at the end of 'Heart' with Dean's single tear as Sam had to kill Madison. I absolutely love the emotional aspect of this show. That was the draw for me at first, but then I found myself totally getting into the mythology as well. I ordered S1 and watched it within a week then S2 as soon as it came out. You've got an awesome show here and I am impressed with both your and Mr. Kripke's fan perception - you actually seem to care and are intuned with what the fans want. The whole uproar over the girls didn't bother me at all - I just waited to see what would happen. Ruby works for me. Bela, like so many others have said, doesn't. I am really hoping we get a scene where Dean really gives it to her. Of course he'd never really kill her or hit her or anything -but he's got to pay her back somehow. I'm confident you'll find a way to make it happen and be satisfying to all us fans at the same time :) I'll miss Henrickson and Gordon - and like others have said, Meg was great too. Can't wait to see Ellen. Anyways - the SPN writing team is awesom. Just keep up the good work. Can't wait to see what you have in store for the season finale. Why do I have the feeling it will be a cliffhanger like S1? Bring it on - as long as it means a S4 :)

Comment #74 (Posted by hanncoll) Rating: ratingfull

I'm going to chime in with the others in regard to Bela. While I really like the direction the show has gone with Ruby (but please, please don't go the 'demon with a heart of gold' route with her; that would make her infinitely less interesting than a demon who is actually evil and self-serving, but whom the boys are forced to trust), I've yet to find a point for Bela's character. I don't 'love to hate' her in the way I loved to hate YED and Henrickson and Gordon. Even Jake, whose character was made ridiculous by the fact that he was insta!evil, was more interesting than Bela. Bela's character is pointless and uninteresting. While the show has succeeded in making me forget that Ruby was added for the T&A factor, whenever Bela's onscreen, I'm reminded that she was shoehorned in on the insistance of the network...for the T&A factor. And don't even get me started on the criminal underuse of Ellen this season. It's a shame to see a genuinely interesting character (and one of the sexiest actresses around) discarded in favor of younger actresses. Yes, we get it, CW -- you're not pleased to have drawn the audience you have. We are, in general, female and over thirty, and you desperately want to draw the young male contingent. If you /must/ pander to the young males, can you at least do it in a way that won't alienate the audience you already have? I want to add that when word of the two new female characters came out, I encouraged people to wait and see, and give the new girls a chance. I don't dislike Bela because I hate the idea of anyone with a vagina on the show in general. I dislike her because she's an uninteresting character. I don't, however, want to sound like I hate the show. On the contrary, I love it. That's why I care enough to speak up when something isn't working.

Comment #75 (Posted by khek) Rating: ratingfull

I'm so glad that we'll see four more episodes this season that I don't even mind that one will be "hysterically funny". (Comedy is very personal, and most of the intentional comedy episodes haven't really been my favorites.) As for Bela--to have someone you "love to hate", the character has to have some redeeming value. Bela? Has none. She kills people or places them in deadly peril for nothing but money. There's nothing--absolutely nothing--that can excuse that. Even if you have her giving some of that money to widows and orphans (after she takes the cut that allows her two lavish apartments and travel money) it wouldn't be enough of an excuse. (And I certainly hope that's not the plan, because that would be just as cliched as the rest of the character' sad existence. And Ruby? An ally? Again, there's nothing that can justify sacrificing innocents. Mocking Sam and Dean doesn't work either, nor does keeping them in the dark. In another article, someone mentioned that Sam and Dean might not actually be brothers. I hope that's not true...they BOTH need to be John and Mary's children. I hope that the resolution to Dean's deal gives him some kind of purpose in this story. Because right now? It does seem like it's All About Sam. I like Sam, just as much as Dean, but it's been a little disconcerting to have the show go from two functional, purposeful brothers to one powerful psychic and one doomed hedonist. Bring back the Winchesters!

Comment #76 (Posted by evie) Rating: ratingfull

Happy to hear that SN will add four more episodes this season. This season's writing has been uneven but I hope that since the strike is over with, the writers come back refreshed and ready to get back to the type of show SN was in S1 and S2. Like the majority of the fans, I agree that the Bela character doesn't work. Bad execution and writing ruined what could have been an interesting character. In terms of Ruby, if she must return for S4 I hope the casting director finds a good actress for the demon to inhabit. Katie Cassidy can't act her way out of a paper bag. Jus in Bello had potential to be an even better episode but Katie's acting and the appearance of Bela put a damper on it. Why Hendrickson was killed is beyond me. There would be no need to introduce a new hunter to expand the SN world, Hendrickson could have expanded it organically but apparently, the writer's shot themselves in the foot again by going for the easy kill instead of keeping an interesting character available in the background. I do have hopes that this show return to what it could be. The badly executed Bela character and the lousy acting by Cassidy are only two of the many things that has impacted this season. The new bright lights, lack of music, loss of Raelle Tucker, addition of new writers who are still getting a hang of the show, etc has all led to a deterioration of the series. Thankfully, the show has the great acting and chemistry of Jensen and Jared. They are the reasons I have continued watching.

Comment #77 (Posted by Sherry) Rating: ratingfull

I want Dean to be saved without anymore deals being made or Sam agreeing to be a leader. Or I want Dean to get himself out of the deal without any help from anyone that way it would show the Demons, Sam and Ruby that he's not as dumb and stupid as they make him out to be. I think that it's time Dean thought of himself for a change and that he deserves to live and have a life outside of Sam and I'm hoping that this is were the turn around is leading. I don't want him to be replaced with someone like Ruby who seems to be more involved in the mytharc/storyline than Dean does and knows more about the Winchester family than Dean and he's one of the 2 main leads, but I guess since she a demon/something supernatural and Dean's not I guess it's all right to some fans but not to me. That is just one of the reason I can't stand Ruby, plus her annoying and bossy attitude she hads. I don't want this to be the Sam/Ruby show or the Sam/Ruby vrs Dean show which it looks like it headed that way to me. I hope this new hunter is a male and not other female and I hope his not there to replace Dean in the show, I'm going to say Mytharc because Dean not involved in the Sam story besides being a over protective brother and that to me is getting old.

Comment #78 (Posted by lurkingnomore) Rating: ratingfull

I know this may come as a surprise to Kripke & Co., but we don't love to hate Bela, we just hate her, and not because she does bad things, but because she's a sucky character! Bela Sue is a total cliche, complete with a bad accent and over-the-top caricature. The way she has been written really brings down the quality of the episodes she's in, and it makes the Dean and Sam we knew and loved look like stupid morons. And the worst part about her is that Sera and Kripke seem to get an inordinate amount of glee out of putting their words into Bela's mouth, and that's part of what makes her such a terrible character - she doesn't speak for herself, she speaks for the writers (aka., "where's our quippy banter, Dean?" Oh, I don't know, Bela, maybe it's not there because YOU NEVER HAD ANY). Kripke, if you're reading this, bring back the Winchesters we knew and loved, and skip over the crappy gurl-power! Bela's got to go, 'cause I can't watch this show much longer as it is, and something must give.

Comment #79 (Posted by karrie1052) Rating: ratingfull

Yep....Bela must go. Gotta listen to the fans. We know what we want and what we like. And it isn't her! Everything else is AWESOME!

Comment #80 (Posted by Roxane) Rating: ratingfull

Well.....what they said. I think enough has been said about Bela, so I'll restrain myself and will not make a long and elaborated comment about how she doesn't bring anything to the show, how the boys IQ points suddenly drop when she's around(and what's up with GORDON! I still can't understand what happened in Fresh Blood. He needs Bela's HELP to find the boys now? heh? W-h-a-t? He's a perfectly capable hunter, thank you very much. ).... Ok....I put my grain of salt about that very important matter. On the GOOD SIDE now. Because if you're reading this, Sera, I don't want you to see only "I hate Bela, and not in a good way" comments (even if I do agree...ahem). So! Firstly, the boys' acting this season has been wonderful. Jensen, as usual, is stunning in his performance. And Jared has grown so much as an actor! Of course, he was talented since the very beginning...but I can "feel" his character and his perfomance so much this season that it's taking my breath away. The writing for this season was wonderful as well(Please note that I don't take into consideration the "Bela factor" when I say this..). I totally loved BDABR, and A Very Supernatural Christmas was sooo great I still get all fan-girly thinking about it(The Nail thing? Soooo gross :D I was covering my eyes and going all "iiiiiiickkkkkk" and sooo smiling like silly at the same time ^^). Mystery Spot was splendid as well, going from funny to plenty-of-angst-until-you just-want-to-cry. I love the fact that we saw the Trickster again. Overall, great great great episode. And the fact that Mystery Spot and Jus in Bello were switched around...I was scared of how it would turn out. But I think it was a lot better that way. Because Sam was so closed up in Jus in Bello....it wouldn't have made sense if Mystery Spot hasn't aired before(Even if he *was* a bit too mute to my liking.). Some of the comments above say that the show will soon be the SamWinchesterShow. Others are saying that it's Dean who gets all the spotlight and introspection. Well, they need to watch the episodes all over again. I mean, what? They want Deal to be psychic too? They want to cut Sam a deal? Because hey it's just not fair after all. In my humble opinion, I think that both boys have their share of problems, and that both of them are given equal screen time dealing with those problems. Some say that we don't know about Sam as much as we do about Dean. That we don't know what music he likes and all that...well, you know what? I think it's perfectly normal that it gives that impression. Of course we know what kind of music Dean likes. He's the kind of guy who just put the music on, loudly, and drive everyone crazy with it. He eats fast-food in a way that have you all drooling and just begging to be that hamburger, if you know what I mean. What he does, he does it with intensity. It's the way he is. So of course we just "know" more about what he likes. Sam is more subtle. That's why we don't know as much about what he likes and doesn't like. Of course, it's a bit like the complete opposite for the emotionnal stuff. Sam share more openly his feelings, while Dean keeps that inside. So, see? I don't see any reasons to complain. Do you? I love your writing, Sera. I love the show. I love the boys. I can stand Ruby. I want to choke Bela, burn her and scatter her ashes in the wind. Oh, well.(choke...now that's a wonderful word. Any Choked!Sam coming up? What? I'm a Limp!Sam fan...and damn proud of it ;P. The last choked scene was in A Very Supernatural Christmas, wasn't it? Well, I'm going in withdrawal here ^^) I'm looking forward to the next episodes. And don't listen to the few negative comments concerning the next episode. I can't wait to see those guys from Hell House back. Of course, beginning with a funny episode after all that waiting time will feel strange...but hey, it's all the strike's fault. And I really think it's going to be a wonderfully funny episode. The angst will come after that, anyways. So stop grumbling, people. Thank you for this interview ;)

Comment #81 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

I can't believe this is the same team of writers who gave us gems such as YED, Meg, Gordon, and Henricksen. Clearly you are all capable of writing quality villains, so what went wrong with the ridiculous cliche that is Bela? I almost expect to tune in to find her sitting in an oversized chair, smoking a pipe and stroking her Siamese cat. You are insulting the intelligence of your fanbase and alienating a hell of a lot of once-loyal supporters, myself included. I now find myself recording each episode and watching later so I'm able to skip over the mindless drivel that is a Bela scene, and when I stop fast-forwarding, I can easily pick up right where I left off without missing a beat. That should tell you how worthless this character is. She is a square peg. Stop trying to shove her in a round hole.

Comment #82 (Posted by Zoe Kirkwood) Rating: ratingfull

I adored season 1 and 2 and season 3 has so far shaped up to be amazing! I'm really excited about the next four episodes and fingers are crossed we will get a season 4! Glad to see everything back up and running after the strike and looking forward to move enjoying episodes :) xx

Comment #83 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Sorry, but Bela isn't a 'love to hate' figure for me. I just hate her, pure and simple. She has no point in the show, she's obviously shoe horned into the episodes because she has to be in a certain amount of them as the network demands it's quota of T&A. And the boys are often written totally OOC around her...she shoots Sam and Dean somehow is perfectly okay with that the next time they meet up??!! Also, Bela doesn't interest me in the slightest, unlike Ruby who is intriguing me. I love her SL with Sam and I'm looking forward to seeing how it unfolds. Actually, I'm just looking forward to seeing Sam's SL unfold as there's been precious little seen of it so far this year.

Comment #84 (Posted by Anthony) Rating: ratingfull

I'm sick and tired of all of these girls b*tching about Bella and Ruby. They just hate it when any girl enters the show because they're not even watching the show, they're watching the boys to perve. When Meg first appeared everyone felt the same way about her. God get over it and grow up. Ruby is a kickass character. And though Bella doesn't work as well as Ruby, she is a great character also and they are both wonderful additions to the Supernatural World. I can't wait to find out more about Lilith! And Ellen is coming back, yay! Please tell me Bobby is going to be in the Season finale as well! I loved All Hell Breaks Loose 2 where Dean, Sam, Bobby, and Ellen were all working together! I cant wait to see how this season ends and where Season 4 is going to go! :)

Comment #85 (Posted by Fern) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, thank you for the great interview. I have loved season three and I'm extremely excited to see the last few episodes. I especially enjoy how each season delves deeper into the mythology and offers new facets of Dean and Sam's relationship along the way. It's an emotional powerhouse of a show. Much applause to you, the other writers, the producers, the directors, and the actors for creating one of the best shows on television. Jus in Bello was brilliant. I can't wait for the rest of the season and hope very much for a fourth season. Regarding Ruby, I have enjoyed what she brings to the table--she's interesting and brings enough surprises into her appearances that I'm always curious about her real deal. I never know whether to believe her or not, and I love that. As for Bela, I am another person on the 'I don't love to hate her train'; she simply annoys me. Perhaps it's the fact that the brothers saved her life in Red Sky at Morning, but since then she has continued to not just be a thorn in their side, she has been outright mean, just for the sake of money. And it doesn't play out as funny, though I perceive that's the way I'm supposed to interpret it. She's ready for a comeuppance. But enough on Bela. I love the show so much that I can deal with her. The intensity of this season has been unyielding and therefore electrifying. I agree with others who said it would be great to see Ellen back. All in all, I'm more than ready for the new episodes, and eager for season four!

Comment #86 (Posted by Yoga Girl) Rating: ratingfull

I for one, don't understand why the writers keep insisting that the fans will warm up to these female characters. Is it wishful thinking? Subliminal messaging? I'm sorry, but Bela is forced in every episode she has been in. There is no chemistry. I don't find her clever or intriguing, no matter how wonderful of an actress she is; and she is the better of the two. It's not the actresses fault that their story lines are archaic and Mary Suish. I don't like seeing Dean and Sam outwitted, outsmarted, and bossed around by any character, especially a half-naked woman. And if I hear some ignorant person say that the fans are reacting to some underlying 'fan girl' jealousy, I may just explode. Most of the fans are honestly old enough to be Jared and Jensen's parent, or at least a very much older sister. We're intelligent, and demand respect. We're not groupies. We don't want One Tree Hill, or the OC. We want the show that was first premised. Two brothers, fighting evil, willing to do anything for each other. That has nothing to do with stereotyped con-women or macho, ball-busting teenagers who are playing century old witches. Can you take off whatever rose-colored glasses you're wearing and see what the fans are posting. Stop reading between imaginary lines. We want Sam and Dean from first season. We like Bobby. We liked Henrickson. We liked Ellen. These were smart characters you could build on. Dean had more chemistry with Hernrickson than any other female the show has ever paired him with. Yet, him you kill off. If this interview serves nothing else, it shows that the fans opinions are still being disregarded.

Comment #87 (Posted by Katerina) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, thanks for this interview and your work on Supernatural. You've gifted us with some of my favorite episodes in one of the greatest shows ever created. But after being with SN for so long, it appears that you (and Kripke) still DON'T GET IT when it comes to what your fans have expressed and continue to express, and this saddens me deeply. And I hate that the writer's strike appears to be pushing Dean’s deal as this season's cliffhanger. We’ve suffered enough this season through one hiatus after another and it would've been better to go into the summer knowing that the deal was over and Dean was safe, with a new arc to look forward to. We don't need any more breaks... we've had enough of those this season. And we don't need you to extend the agony and mysteries in the annoying style of "Lost". Enough already! Oh, and the "possibility" that Sam and Dean aren't really brothers as the children of John and Mary?!?! No, nuh uh... don't even go there! And you're right Sera. You have a dedicated, vociferous, eloquent and intelligent fanbase who fight for SN and basically ensure its survival by doing the promo work at the grassroots level. WE are the reason that YOU have a job. So yes, you’re right... we are not fucking around. So please stop fucking with us and get a fucking CLUE when it comes to not only presenting decent female characters, but your annoying bloodlust for killing the great ones!!! Dump Ruby and Bela -- the sooner the better -- and put the focus back on the Winchesters.

Comment #88 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

I love the show but absolutely hate the direction it has taken this year in order to incorporate the two new "hot female" characters. I totally despise them both, I think the actresses are horrible and the story lines have been awful just to make room for them. I watch the show for the story of Sam and Dean. I do not have a problem with side characters that enhance the brothers' story- like Bobby, Ellen, Meg. But I have no room or tolerance for these new characters. Their only purpose has been to make San and Dean appear incompetent and stupid when we have seen for the past two seasons how smart they are. This season they have been written totally out of character time after time just to allow these two "badass chicks" to appear sassy and to show how awesome they are. I want them both gone! ASAP! Have them kill each other- I don't really care- just get rid of them and use as little screen time as possible to do it.

Comment #89 (Posted by ~ Anna ~) Rating: ratingfull

Thanks for offering your thoughts Sera and for your work on SN. The sad thing is that I WANTED and was ready to like Bela from her initial description (and Ms. Cohan is talented and beautiful as well). Bela sounded unique and fascinating, being neither hunter nor demon. I actually like the idea of Bela, but certainly not her presentation. The way she is being shoehorned into episodes with implausible situations and making the Winchesters act so much out of character whenever she is around just makes me hate her, and want her GONE. Now. I care nothing about her motivations or backstory at this point. Bela would've worked if left to her planned one-time appearance in Bad Day, with a "possible" future return. The mandate to make her recurring was a mistake -- wrong place, wrong time. She is NOT a "love to hate" type of character. That honor goes to Gordon, Henriksen, YED and Meg. Now those were truly love-to-hate characters. And while we're at it, please stop killing the GREAT characters! While Gordon's story was coming to an end, Henriksen's was just beginning and you missed out on a chance for another excellent recurring character portrayed by a wonderful actor. You want a REAL antagonist that we DO love to hate? Then find a way to bring Meg back in the form of the brilliant Ms. Nicki Aycox. Because even though Ruby may be an interesting character, she has been terribly miscast... Katie does nothing for me and is not up to par (sorry Katie, it's a tough business). If Ms. Barrese (demonCasey) were cast as Ruby, then you would have an easy sell. * * * * * We don't hate female characters, only ones presented badly. I've seen lots of love for Meg, Ellen, Sarah, Ava, Carmen, Lisa, Missouri, to name a few. And I don't want to be the guinea pig while you "play" and try to "fix" bad characters. Been there done that with Jo and that was nauseating... the character just needs to click from the beginning. The T&A experiment was fun while it lasted but did nothing for ratings. Exorcise Ruby and put Bela on the first plane across the Atlantic... or kill them both since you love killing things so much. We honestly don't care what you do with them. Then use the money saved to bring back some of the classic rock that has been sorely missing this season. Or at least to pry Jeffrey Dean Morgan away from some other projects for another appearance! Hopefully we can get back to the SN that we love, the one we signed up for... you remember that one, right? … the show about two brothers on the road saving people, hunting things? * * * * * The Barbarians are at the gate, Sera. Go read Cavafy's poem and perhaps you will see the correlation in conjunction to your own expressions of denial.

Comment #90 (Posted by Jen) Rating: ratingfull

I have to say, when the character of Bela was introduced, I didn't see much point to her. I finally realized her purpose as a catalyst when she stole the Colt, and I'm kinda interested to see why. They've been throwing hints at us that there's more to her than meets the eye; in Red Sky at Morning, we know that she killed someone in her family. Now she's taken the Colt, and not to sell it. What would she need it for? There is some method to her madness. I'd like to see what that is. The writers have done an excellent job in getting us to hate her. I do agree that at this point they need to introduce some redeeming qualities if they're going to keep her around. Give her a bit of emotional turmoil, some vulnerability, a shred of humanity. She's a bit half-baked for my liking. I think they've done a great job with the Ruby character and her interaction with the brothers. I'm not buying that she's a friend; I think she has her own agenda. I hope we'll see what it is before the end of the season. I also like the switcheroo they've done with Sam and Dean. Sam is becoming more ruthless while Dean is becoming the conscience of the outfit. I can't wait to see where it's going. I only hope that the attention they're giving Sam's character right now doesn't mean they're actually considering killing Dean. That would be a HUGE mistake! I'm happy to hear that Ellen will be back. I thought she was one of the more successful peripheral characters, and I'd like to see a lot more of her. I'd also like to say for the record, and forgive me if I rant, but I'm one of those devoted fans Ms. Gamble mentions whose seen every episode more times than I can count, and I feel very strongly about it's future. In my opinion what this show truly needs is to switch networks. It's intelligent, well written, superbly acted, and has no place among the usual bubble-gum fare that airs on the CW. Since there's pretty much no chance of that happening, if they ever think about canceling, network execs better be prepared to get 20 tons of rock salt delivered to their doorsteps! Who's with me on this?

Comment #91 (Posted by Angy) Rating: ratingfull

I can’t believe I just spend an hour reading all the comments. I’m in stitches! Especially the vagina comment, buahahahahaha. I’m going to be a bitch and jump on the wagon here. Kill Bela! KILL BELA! I’d prefer Dean to do it, but whatever. Have some baddie do it, fine, but PLEASE don’t have Dean all teary eyed yelling, “Bela, NO!” *rollseyes* This season (minus Bela) has rocked. I can’t wait to see the Hellhounds again. Keep up the great work. Oh but I’m still mad at you for killing off Henrickson. Sigh. Could there be a finer brother out there? The way him and Dean bonded in JiB, whew! I had to have hardcore sex after watching that. Looking forward to what you bring to the table for the last four episodes. If I were a lesbian, I'd get down on one knee. I'm at awe over your love for angst Keep hurting the boys. Blood, bruises, pain, love to watch them grunt. :)

Comment #92 (Posted by Ray Steele) Rating: ratingfull

I'm glad Sam's finally coming out from behind Dean's shadow. A certain element amongst Dean fans don't like it because they want the character of Dean to dominate ALL of the time with anyone else in the show being secondary. Dean is mostly the one who saves the day, he's usually saving Sam rather than the other way around, he's always portrayed as Sam's protector, the hero character, plus there's been stories around him eg Dean's mini-me, the genie episode as well as ongoing storylines including the current will he go to hell storyline. The writers have a diffcult job trying to balance the storylines and we should be pulling together to support the show, not arguing about who's currently got more coverage.

Comment #93 (Posted by Deni) Rating: ratingfull

Hi Sera! I´m not gonna say anything about Bella, I think they already said it everything, but about Ruby, I think is cleaver of you guys to have such a character in the plot. And the brothers, I will love to see more and more about Sam´s psychic powers and a black eyed Dean having fun as hell by his side (not literally in hell), I mean, imagine all the things that Dean could do with demon powers! Talking about having fun...!! Ohh and sorry about my english, but I forgot to say that I`m from Mexico, and I love the show!!!

Comment #94 (Posted by Kalia) Rating: ratingfull

I think people hate Bela because the writers expect the audience to laugh when she makes idiots of Sam and, especially, Dean. People hate Ruby because she's played by a lousy actress and also because Kripke lied (again). Last summer, he insisted that Ruby, like Bela, would be a bad character. Now he's trying to turn this crappy demon into a hero. I'm beginning to hate Supernatural.

Comment #95 (Posted by clarksmuse) Rating: ratingfull

I am one of the few people who love to hate Bela. I think she has been introduced remarkably well this season, and I am so interested in seeing why she wants the Colt. I actually hate Ruby more than I hate Bela, but again, it's a "love to hate" thing. I knew they were going to be morally corrupt characters in some way, shape, and form. I just wish more people would give these two characters a chance. Sera, y'all are doing an incredible job, and I am anxiously looking forward to April!!

Comment #96 (Posted by Hoi) Rating: ratingfull

I actually like Bella. It seems to me like you guys except every single character the boys come in contact with to either want to kill them or help them. Sure, Bella's fucking with them, but it's not like its personal.

Comment #97 (Posted by Hélène) Rating: ratingfull

Thank you for this interview. It is always a pleasure to hear a writer’s point of view. If I believed in anything, I would spend my time praying that there will be a fourth season (and many more). I am delighted to hear that there will be a funny episode before the end of the season. I love it when it is funny. I am always surprised by the reactions against Bela and Ruby. I think it is rather clever that Bela stole the colt and I suppose it was needed for the end of the season. I don't think that she makes the guys look stupid and I found Sam's dream about her rather hilarious. I also kind of like Ruby, especially since she saved Dean and I am rather curious to discover what she is up to. What I might regret is more the lack of secondary characters like Bobby, who could pop up occasionally. Surely it would not hurt if Dean and Sam knew more hunters or people like Missouri Mosley or Ellen. From that perspective, why Kripke killed Henriksen is a mystery to me. I am eager to watch the end of the season. I just hope that Kripke’s plan is not to kill Dean at the last minute and let us wait anxiously until the fourth season to discover what happens to him! That would be so cruel! (So, or course, there are chances that he does just that!). I also hope some day we will have answers to some pending questions like "how could Mary recognise the yellow-eyed demon" and "what happened to her friends" (Ruby mentioned that they died) and I wonder if we will we ever hear about the daughter or friends of the hunter that Sam killed when he was possessed. I have read other comments and I don't share the feeling that the show is focusing on one brother to the detriment of the other. I started as a Dean's fan and I grew more and more interested by Sam without loosing my interest in Dean. To me, everything Dean does or says confirm that he is the archetype of the good guy and everything Sam does or says make him more complex and interesting. That said, I will be glad to find out what happens to Dean and (I hope) if Sam turns evil or not, because spending a whole season worrying about those two subjects seems a little long to me. Sera Gamble, if by miracle you happen to read this: your have my utter admiration. I love this show. I love what you write. I wish you the very best of luck in whatever you do.

Comment #98 (Posted by Summer) Rating: ratingfull

First off, the first episode after Supernatural comes back sounds amazing. I can't wait for that. As for Bela, kill her. Please, let Dean and Sams tortured soul take it out on that stupid excuse of a human. With all the respect I can manage, because I love this show, I truely think you screwed up with Bela. We don't (or at least me and my friends who have an intrest in the show) love to hate Bela, we just plain out hate her. Then again, I do love Ruby and Ellen (not so much Jo but even she wasn't too bad) as female roles. With the exception of Bela, this show is perfect and I'm so glad we get a few more episodes this season.

Comment #99 (Posted by Kristy) Rating: ratingfull

well the one good thing that came out of this interview was the fact that Dean's gonna get out of his deal this season, so they won't drag it thru the mud until next season. however, this means we need GOOD episodes to air, not the crap we've been getting all season long. and what does the colt have to do with Dean's deal?? what "leverage" does that have?? if demons can now all of a sudden stop bullets, what's the point? i liked it better when that damn thing only had 6 bullets left. of course Lilith being smart is "bad for Sam"....because remember....the boys have apparently turned stupid this season. oh god, no one get that tattoo, please? i mean, i liked the idea of the boys having them, but really now....just to piss off Sera, don't get it. and apparently, Sera, you must have suffered some severe head trauama at some point for thinking any one likes either of the girls. NEWSFLASH: we could give a rats *insert swear word here* about them. we don't want to see them. what WE want is for the show to go back to how amazing it was in the first season. just the boys, on the road, hunting evil stuff. and get new material, i'm sick of the demons in every friggen episode. and we had to wait a whole friggen season to see Ellen again? i'm not very happy about that. she's one of the few reoccuring characters i actually like. DO NOT KILL HER OFF!! i swear if Ellen gets killed off, there will be some serious hell for whoever writes that episode. ugh, we don't need another female hunter on this show, we've already got two crappy ones! do we need to keep shoving "kick-ass chicks" onto this show? this isn't what i signed up for when i started watching a few years ago! keep the new hunter a male. Sera, i hope you get that other project that you're hoping to get, so you can get the hell off of my show, and we can hire decent writers.

Comment #100 (Posted by Far) Rating: ratingfull

Nice interview, Sera! First and foremost when FFN had asked if we will see Henricksen again, you didn't exactly say that he has died officially! That is some good news to the point, all the fans are squealing about that. So all I want for Christmas, or an early birthday present, is that you BRING Henricksen back! Pleeeease?! Bring Henricksen back! As for Bela, I actually do like the woman because of her deviousness and callous tactics. I wonder what she is going to do with the colt? What need does she have for it? Does she want Dean to go to Hell? Does she want Sam to suffer? Also, I would like to agree with the fans on one part about Bela- she must certainly have a good background because at the moment she is a nothing of a hunter, who goes back and forth. So make her a lot more interesting and the fans will like her! Please continue on with Supernatural! You've gained more fans, not lost them. Keep them coming!

Comment #101 (Posted by Kristy) Rating: ratingfull

this is in response to Far's comment. no one cares about Bela's backstory, so telling us what it is, isn't going to make us like her more. remember when they tried to do that with Jo....and no one cared?? yeah, we don't want to go thru that again. and actually, this season of the show has been the lowest rated season thus far. so yeah...the show has lost a ton of fans, not gained any.

Comment #102 (Posted by Bast) Rating: ratingfull

Lovely interview! Thanks! I have to say I was dissapointed in season 3 at first, but it gradually redeemed itself and I'll continue to watch, the last few episodes were especially awesome. I'm eager to see where the boys' stories will go!

Comment #103 (Posted by Anna) Rating: ratingfull

I love this show, but REPLACE KATIE CASSIDY ASAP!!!!!!!

Comment #104 (Posted by Annie) Rating: ratingfull

Dear Ms.Gamble, I love the work you do on the show and knowing that tight deadlines just fuels your writing makes you respect you even more ! I love season 3 although it has divided us fans who since day 1 of this show has been a tightknit fandom. Being a mom and working full-time does not allow me to watch much tv so aside from the news at 10:00, Supernatural is the only show I truly enjoy with a passion and basically have time to watch. I too am very protective of the boys and as much as I adore Ellen, I hate, loathe Bela. I get we are supposed to hate her, I get we will never like her, but we`re not hating her as it was written or planned . We just do not accept the character. I believe she is well written but the need for her character is totally absent . Please bring back Ellen. She is much more significant and wonderfully written. She`s had a place on the show since day 1. As to the boys`IQ`s dropping every time Bela is on screen, well I have to agree with the fans and I do not need to watch the episodes 3 times to witness this phenemena. I have 2 wishes for season 4 : 1- I`d bet my left arm it`s back next season. 2- Get rid of bela yesterday please !! Thank you, Annie

Comment #105 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

SHOW HAS LOST A LOT OF FANS SINCE U ADDED THE GIRLS. I SUGGEST KILL THEM NOW AND I MEAN ASAP!!! WE DONT NEED A WANNABE BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER AND AN ANNOYING THIEF! I STILL LUV THE SHOW AND WILL CONTINUE TO WATCH BUT IF THOSE GIRLS BECOME LUV INTEREST U CAN SAY GOODBYE TO ME AS A VIEWER BECAUSE I AM NOT WATCHING SCOOBYDOO THE LOVE STORY!!!

Comment #106 (Posted by Maggie) Rating: ratingfull

Nice interview. Looking forward to new episodes this year AND next! If you MUST include female characters, please bring back Sarah Blake from season one, or Jo (as long as she acts like she did in Born Under a Bad Sign). Get rid of Bela...she's a bad character. Not in the love to hate category either, just the hate to hate. I'd LIKE to like her, but it's just not possible. She's HORRIBLE. Ruby's character is okay, but please get that woman some acting lessons. It's like she thinks posing and sneering is enough. It's not. All is fixable, as long as Sam and Dean live. And if you can, please bring back John is some way. Ghost, flashback, demonic shapeshifter, dream, whatever. Just bring him back!

Comment #107 (Posted by Marsha) Rating: ratingfull

Greetings, and thank you for a great interview. Since I'm late to the party, I'll be as succinct as possible in my comments. - love your stories, Sera...only why do you get such glee from killing off my favorite antagonists, such as Gordon and Henriksen? - and speaking of...please find a way to bring them both back! (okay, perhaps Gordon in flashbacks with John) - Bela must go. Please do not mistake our utter distaste for her to be in the same league as our distaste for...gosh, I can't even think of a comparison! I DO NOT love to hate her - I just hate her. Period. I don't care what her backstory is. - We love and care about the show and only want the best for it. Would hate to lose viewers simply over a character.

Comment #108 (Posted by Gloria) Rating: ratingfull

Dudes ... Is this the Hate Bela forum? PLEASE TRY TO FIND SOMETHING POSTIVE TO SAY! If I were Sera reading this, I'd think SPN is doomed and dying, and it would totally kill my creative spirit. C'mon, people - the negative has been beaten into the ground - Say Something Good! Please!

Comment #109 (Posted by Xina) Rating: ratingfull

Great article! Sera, you are probably my favorite Supernatural writer. I really like the depth of characterization you get into ... and the depth of torture you give to our boys. Yes, I apparently am a masochist. Anyhow, I join with the others in my hatred of Bela. Can you please please kill her in some degrading way? That would make lots of fans happy. LOL! Anyhow, I'm thrilled that it looks like Supernatural will be back for season 4. This show has obsessed me totally - and while I am looking forward to the season finale I'm also dreading it because of what my happen to my beloved Dean!! Anyhoo, God bless you. Keep up the great work!

Comment #110 (Posted by MB) Rating: ratingfull

Nice interview, looking forward to the final episodes. My husband and I are recent fans, we picked up the first two seasons on DVD then started watching. Your current female characters are very poorly written and honestly both my husband and I sorta skip thru all the nonsense, its a shame because your male characters have all been developed in such interesting ways. He does say that Ruby and Bella are both cute LOL but if you want cute girls to make Winchesters into idiots why not just add a cute girl of the week like the classic sixty shows did like ST, MUNCLE, or Seinfeld etc. then it won't matter if the boys IQs drop to zero and the characters are cardboard. Overall great show, but you need to add some meat or eliminate Bella and Ruby (hate 'em myself but willing to watch if it didn't weaken show so much with other characters failing the toddler test.... if a toddler knows revealing one of a kind treasure in cheapo safe in front of thief who has stolen from you in the past is idiotic... well it is idiotic)

Comment #111 (Posted by SatisfiedCustomer) Rating: ratingfull

*holds up a finger* Just a sec...I'm still laughing about the "Sam gets the shaft/Dean gets the shaft" comments....*rolls around floor laughing hysterically at those asinine, banal comments*...okay, I think I'm good now. While I do like Ruby better, I can't say that I'm overly bothered by Bela (well, maybe just a little bothered in RSAM). She's not likable, but I totally get that she's not meant to be. I think if the writers would just write the brothers a little more savvy and on the ball around her, she wouldn't have such a chilly reception...but then, some fans are just not going to be happy with a female character no matter what you do. As long as Dean and Sam are at the forefront of each ep being made to look heroic and competent, I'm good. And keep the emo coming, I'm loving it!

Comment #112 (Posted by krissyc) Rating: ratingfull

I'm sorry but I really, really hate Bella. I dred every second she appears on screen. Is it just me or does her accent sound completely fake? Unless that's supposed to be a character quirk, it deserves to die. Bela really doesn't work for me at all. I just really hate her and it's not a "love to hate thing" it's a "hate, so die" thing. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE kill her off in the most brutal and disgusting way possible! Thank you and keep up the good work!

Comment #113 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Please continue to write as you always have. The Characters are wonderful including Bela. Majority of my friends enjoy the show, including Bela. Please keep her. I am officially a JO Hater, this actress does a better job than Alona and Ms Cassidy.

Comment #114 (Posted by May) Rating: ratingfull

The main problem I have with Bela, as a Brit myself, is that God-awful accent. I'm sure Miss Cohan is a talented actress, but for Christ's sake, she sounds like Lady Penelope off Thunderbirds. Very few british people actually speak like that, and the fact that Supernatural, a show which I have come to love, utilises such an insultingly caricaturic stereotype, saddens me.

Comment #115 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Sera, your comments on Bela prove to me that you're completely clueless. You keep saying how much credit the viewers deserve then go and state that we somehow don't get the concept of an antagonist. We get it. It's just not working with this character and this actress for quite a large number of fans. There are well written antagonists that people do indeed "love to hate" but Bela is not one of them. She's horrendous and it's clear that she serves no real purpose to the story when you could leave her scenes on the cutting room floor and it wouldn't really affect the story in any way whatsoever. A well written antagonist doesn't make viewers want to change the channel. It makes them look forward to the next battle between them and the heroes of the show. Writers should make them rise to the challenge, not dumb down the heroes to show what a formidable opponent the antagonist is. I think that all of you sitting in that writers room have lost sight of why we watch this show. The Winchesters. Not trite cliches.

Comment #116 (Posted by Monique) Rating: ratingfull

I love the interview given by Ms. Gamble. I have to say that reading the opinions of other Supernatural fans, I would like to add my own comments to the mix. Season 3 has been excellent thus far with a few exceptions. (Red Sky at morning) As for the additions of Bela and Ruby, I have to say that I like the character Ruby. After "Jus in Bello" I got thinking that Ruby has a lot more in store for Sam that we think. First thing that she asked for was the colt. Had they still had the colt, we would be looking at 30 people with gunshot wounds. Really think about it people! I think Ruby is gunning for Sam for her own personal war with Lilith. She needs Sam for her own hidden agenda. I can't wait to see if I am right! Now for Bela, a few things rubbed me the wrong way about her and I find its hard to forget. The major thing is that we all have grown to love the brothers various quirks...especially Dean's. For me the two things that first come to my mind when I think about Dean Winschester is the love for his brother followed very closely by the love for his car. Bela has messed with both (shooting Sam in BDABR and towing his car in RSAM) Then we turn around and see Dean aswering her call and giving away his location in Fresh Blood. To me its not something Dean would do. Its frustrating for a fan to see that all the character building that we saw during season 1 and season 2 is put in jeoperdy with just a few lines. I can see where fans are thinking that the boys get dummed down when it comes to the Bela character. In my book, Dean would never had a second contact with Bela after she shot Sam. If you are looking to bring another character to give the boys a break, Give Jim Beaver cerdit under star and not just special guest. I would love to see him share more screen time with the boys.

Comment #117 (Posted by Al) Rating: ratingfull

Let me tell you Sera how I love to hate Bela. When I see Lauren's name in the opening credits, I turn off the show. If you people insist on pushing this character into S4, I certainly won't be tuning in. THAT's how much I hate her. No love, Al

Comment #118 (Posted by Lola) Rating: ratingfull

Henriksen was a character I loved to hate up until that last episode of his (in which I started to like him and actually looked forward to him lending a hand to the boys down the road. Once again, hopes were dashed. lol). *That's* how an antagonist is supposed to work. Where you can enjoy the challenge they present. Hating them to the point where you want to leave the room until their scene is over is not something writers should be striving for. lol. Plus, with Henriksen, the boys were able to gain the upper hand with him in the end. Just as the stars/heroes of the show should. I honestly don't understand why the writers think that the majority of viewers would want to see the boys continually one-upped by either of these two.

Comment #119 (Posted by Soho) Rating: ratingfull

Half of these people make me embarrassed to be a SPN fan. Let's face it, as much as everyone needs the Sam and Dean show, there should be some reoccurring characters. Of course, no one has trouble with Bobby, it's just the girls who could possibly be love interests. *gasp* As for Bela, I don't think she's fantastic, but I think she's far better than Ruby. Katie Cassidy seems like a really lovely girl, but her performances are almost painful to watch. Lauren Cohen is doing a really lovely job, I just wish her character was a bit more fleshed out. Either way, I think the absolute worst thing the writers can do is write either Ruby or Bela off like the absolutely ATROCIOUS handling of Jo and Ellen, who were far stronger characters than the two females this season. I still feeling like the hasty decision to write Jo and Ellen off and then burn down the Roadhouse was one of the worst decisions they could have made; granted, Jo's character could have been handled better, but there was a lot of promise for her and the Roadhouse, but because the fans didn't like her IMMEDIATELY, she was written off. I think listening to the fans is great, but writing off or dismissing everything that doesn't work immediately just makes the show look clunky and awkward. Blah blah blah. Anyway, good show.

Comment #120 (Posted by Nat) Rating: ratingfull

I have to say I disagree with a lot of people here. I believe Bela could be a lot better than she does and I love her. She's DIFFERENT. I think that was your whole point in doing this yes? Introduce characters that weren't just hunters or demons. Ruby sadly, I thought I could possibly like, but the casting for her is horrible and to me it seems Katie tries to hard to pull of the snark that you are trying to get across with her. I believe it's the casting error that makes her unbareable for me. I think if there was half as much effort put forth into Bela as there was Ruby? I think maybe people would start to appreciate her more. We got Ruby's backstory. Why not Bela's? All we have are hints, we basically know exactly what happened to Ruby and really that's unfair to the very SMALL fanbase that Bela has already. I love how Bela is morally grey. I love the fact she's different and not your typical character you would see on the show. I applaud you for that and really I love you all even if I want to seriously throw something at the television during the last few episodes. Katie seems like a GREAT girl, I'm sure she's really sweet, but Ruby just isn't the role for her. Perhaps this should be called the "i hate bela' camp however since it seems everyone loves Ruby, I just hope that you pay attention to the Bela fans out there that actualyl APPRECIATE the character in question and can see behind the supposed "horrible accent" which in some parts in England? Sorry the accent is actually LIKE that.

Comment #121 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Personally I like the character Bela. She's something different. Not just another hunter they seem to always meet along the way. She keeps the boys guessing. Just when they think she is helping she can turn at a drop of a hat. They keep her as a contact because of what she does. See the dream root. It's hard and rare to come by so they use Bela because they know she can get these things. Ruby however to me is a cardboard character. I see nothing there for her. It's like they tried cloning Meg and failed miserably and something went wrong with the process. The fact that she is a demon and Sam is just following her all willy nilly and not doing what he should be doing as a hunter is just out of his character. Him stopping Dean from shooting her was just too far out there for me. I don't pay attention when Ruby comes on screen. Bela I just see she does exactly what she needs to do. She's a thief. Though the fact she still had the colt means there is a reason I think coming up. If she had been paid to steal it it would be gone by now.

Comment #122 (Posted by Anthony) Rating: ratingfull

*stands up and applauds comment #119* I couldn't agree with you more. Perfectly said.

Comment #123 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Oh, yes, how embarrassing that many of the people here would actually prefer well written characters as opposed to the pathetically written Bela.

Comment #124 (Posted by Kate) Rating: ratingfull

Oh phooey - I like both Bela and Ruby - especially Ruby. They work - they play interesting roles, they make the Hunting universe more 3D. Bela's character doesn't blow me away, but I (and my mates) enjoy her screen time enough to enjoy the episode. That said, I didn't like Madison (the werewolf)... she's the only Supernatural character I that didn't work for me to the point that it made it difficult to enjoy the episode- mainly because I've seen the actress's work before and wasn't particularly impressed then either, so now I probably have a grudge. And the makeup. But more Lilith hmmm? Maybe I'm a bad feminist, but I like all these evil/fickle women, as well as the goodies.

Comment #125 (Posted by Jesse) Rating: ratingfull

Please, Sera, please listen to the overwhelming majority of fans responding to your interview. Everyone is glad that the boys are back, but the majority seem to have a problem with Bela, or Ruby, or both. As far as I'm concerned, their presence is ruining the show. You're better than that. Please get rid of the millstones, and move on to characters that work. Create them as one-shots; we'll probably love them. Then you can pull them out for further use. Or just go back and pull up some of the characters we've met and liked before! Put the story first, instead of trying to force The Relic Hunter and Drucilla into the Winchester's storyline.

Comment #126 (Posted by Kate Bravo) Rating: ratingfull

Well, Sera, consider SPN a real cult hit cuz me and my best friend are getting the Sam n Dean tats! They're gonna cost us about $80 each...we're gettin 'em in a few weeks!! I'm so excited!

Comment #127 (Posted by marie) Rating: ratingfull

OK!!!!!. i get it u people hat bella. but come one don't u just love the way dean gets when she appears or doesn something against them. and sam seems to have a thing for her. she has style. and dean gets all fired up and angry when she's around. i love the way jensen ackles performs that. hehehehe. luv him and jared. anyways LAY OF BELLA. SHES OK. without and her many episodes would have been pretty lame. come one didn't you love the "after this we should have angry sex" line. that was the best. dean was hualrious. so back off obsessed fans who are only judgin charcters because they are way to obssesed about dean and sam. its more interesting with bella and especially Ruby. totally lovin it. WOHOOO SEASON 4!! im so glad there is one.

Comment #128 (Posted by Caz) Rating: ratingfull

Wow, what an incredible amount of vitriol has been spewed here from people who claim to "Love" the show. I do love Supernatural and I love what Erick and co are doing with it. it is not infact our show, it is theirs, and we should be grateful that we can have such an awsome show on TV. I think Both Ruby and Bela serve their purpose, which is to add conflict to the story and make life difficult for the boys. I find the new POV on the demons in the show to be facinating. How they are indeed a refelction of humanity, are we infact any better than they, who at least have the excuse of having lost their humanity, for the terrible things they do. Suck it up people, it's just a tv show, albeit a great one.... I don't think there's any need to put such overwhelming negative emotion into it. As for what borders on personal attacks on the actors, shame on you. They are people doing a job.... that's all. They shouldn't be attacked like that. Thank you Sara for being part of such a wonderful enterprise, best of luck for the future and congrats on being picked up for the fourth season.

Comment #129 (Posted by Anthony) Rating: ratingfull

Comment #99, you prove my point so well. You don't care how many characters they add as long as they're not kick ass girls. Grow up and deal with the fact. In life people change and new people come into each other's lives. It would be INSANE for it not to happen on the show. You can't just keep introducing more and more male recurring characters. It's unrealistic. Sera, please don't get rid of the girls just because of what all of these people here are saying. As you can see the farther you get into the comments, there are actually people who like Bela and Ruby. I understand you write for the fans, but these fans appear to be fan-girls who are just jealous of Bela and Ruby. They work in the show and there's no reason to get rid of them.

Comment #130 (Posted by Addi) Rating: ratingfull

I'm happy that SPN is getting a fourth season, but I'll admit my joy at the prospect is pretty muted by the mostly sub-standard third season. Ruby needs a new meat suit. Cassidy can NOT act and it's making a farce out of Demons being centuries old and powerful. She just doesn't have the talent to pull that off. Bring back Nicki as Meg (twins anyone?). That is one woman who made Demons terrifying - a character I loved to hate. Bela? GOOD BYE AND GOOD RIDDENCE TO BAD RUBBISH. The character is so badly written and so out of place on SPN. How she is handled and WORSE how the boys react to her makes a mockery of the characters Sam and Dean and everything they stood for in S1 and S2. If she is not gone in S4, I will be. Please get the SPN show back on the road, with the quality writing and acting that we were accustomed to in S1 and S2. THAT'S how you got a dedicated fan base. Not with what you have been pulling in S3. With the current show, all you're doing is pushing the loyal fanbase further and further away.

Comment #131 (Posted by Lynn) Rating: ratingfull

*Stands up and agrees with comment #129. All it boils down to is JEALOUS fansgirls don't want a there favorite brother with any of the girls that come on the show because it's not THEM. Some fans think it's all right if Sam gets all the sex and shirtless scenes he wants but they that Dean might have a sex scene or get shirtless and they start bitching about it but they hear Sam is getting one and they start planning a damn party. I say, if any of the brothers need sex it's Dean because he hadsn't had any in quite a while, if you say he did in "The Magnificent Seven" your lying because that one wasn't even seen it was heard it really doesn't count, I'm surprised he hadsn't forgot what it feels like. I don't think it's fair that Sam hads had 2 sex scenes to Dean's one that hads been seen 2 freakin' years ago in "Route 666". Thanks anyway Sera for the interview. Congrats on being picked up for the fourth season. I hope season 4 is written better than season 3. PLEASE put the show back on track like it was in season 1 everything was perfect then.

Comment #132 (Posted by dj) Rating: ratingfull

#127, The reason I dislike the character of Bela so much is BECAUSE of the way Dean acts whenever she comes on screen -- like a totally different man from the one we knew in seasons 1 & 2. The worst line I have ever heard is the "angry sex" line. Bela does not have style. I am not a jealous fangirl, and I don't care how many women the writers let Dean have a roll in the hay with. Give him one. Give him ten. Just not Bela. And I admit I don't want "kickass" GIRLS on the show. I want "kickass" WOMEN on the show, like Ellen, Meg, and Missouri. I'm not a silly teenager who watches the show just to watch the boys walk down the stairs in a tux. This show is so much better than that. For those who want to see teenage T&A and stupid storylines, I suggest Gossip Girls or some other such show. Sera, please return the show to the great and wonderful series it was. God bless Miss Cohan, and I wish her luck in her career -- on some other show.

Comment #133 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

got no problem with the prospect of adding characters to this show to an extent. However, I could stand a little creativity and originality and a little less cliched combative kickassgirlness. Give me a well rounded character and I'm good to go. That leaves these two girls out. Shoulda let Ellen play a bigger part this season rather than adding BOTH of these girls. one plus Ellen would have been alright and my choice for the one would have to be Ruby because Bela is just a useless entity. Ruby at least fits. Too bad the girl can't act, though.

Comment #134 (Posted by Anna) Rating: ratingfull

Don't like Bela, don't mind Ruby. It beggars belief that certain people are claiming that it's turning into the 'Sam show' - you must be watching a different show to me - Dean gets all the best one-liners, the best funny quips, he's the hero, the cool guy, the action hero, the one that gets female attention, he almost always saves the day. It's always been the 'Dean show'.

Comment #135 (Posted by *~Laura~*) Rating: ratingfull

Thank you for this wonderful interview! I love reading all of the various opinions fans have, and I will express mine as well. :D I do not like the changes made this season. *The demon storyline is getting old, and I hope something new is introduced soon. *The bright lights and lack of classic rock make this season extremely different and I, as well as other fans, hate the alteration. The music and gloomy lighting made Supernatural different from other shows - it was unique and now our show just seems too happy, and too much like other shows. *Many fans have already said exactly what I feel about the girls, in words much better than I could have chosen. I will just say that I, like the majority of fans here, do not like either girl, but for very different reasons. Bela adds nothing to the show, she is a useless, "one-trick" character and the artifact stealing gets repetitive. She is mean and annoying, but receives no retribution for her actions. She is written to look smart, while the boys are "dumbed down". I DO NOT LOVE TO HATE HER, I JUST HATE HER. I gave her a chance and now it is too late. I also really hope there will be no sob story to try and justify her actions. Ms. Cohan seems like a wonderful actress, but her the character of Bela is horrible. Ruby, on the other hand, has a purpose, but Katie Cassidy may not be the right actress for this character. I suggest having demon Ruby possess Bela, so a great actress can portray a great character. Ruby needs a better meatsuit, preferably one that is not dead, or has not been shot by Bobby. I can't wait to see more of Ellen, and other characters from past seasons: Missouri, Sarah Blake, Papa Winchester (of couse!), Meg's twin, and Ash (maybe he didn't die, perhaps he lost his watch in a poker game, and that wasn't really his hand... *hopes*) P.S. Anthony - please stop being so judgemental, most fans are not fangrrls; just because you do not agree with someone does not mean that they are jealous of the girls, or that they oppose all the females on the show - most do not. Instead of lashing out, give a valid reason for your argument. I'm sure we all love this awesome show, and those fans criticizing it are just trying to help make it better. :)

Comment #136 (Posted by AD Jones) Rating: ratingfull

I really hate to grouse someone out of a job and I'm always inclined to support someone who seems universally attacked, but the comments from Cindy L. highlight actual problems with the character Bela. Other characters are being massively distorted to just make her look clever. Gordon would have just shot her. Comment #37 (Posted by Cindy L.) "... Fans hate her because she's just badly written, to the point where other characters around her end up being badly written too. Gordon never needed help finding Sam and Dean before. He would never have backed down when she refused to help him, he would have hurt or shot her. Dean would never be so stupid as to give her his location, he would never think someone who shot Sam was hot, and Sam would never think someone who shot him and endangers the lives of others as 'stylish', or worthy of a wet dream. "

Comment #137 (Posted by nooone) Rating: ratingfull

Hey Sera! Look at the cws message boards: two girls have the Winchesters tatts. One of them posted some pictures too. How cult is that?

Comment #138 (Posted by Beata) Rating: ratingfull

I like Ruby. I like her character. I like how she is a demon. I want to know more about her. But I HATE Bela. I don't love to hate her! I just hate her. I loved to hate Gordon and his crazy *** friend. I loved to hate Meg. I loved to hate YED. But this Bela chick makes me sick. She is so annoying! You guys did an awfull job writing her character. Every episode she is in she seems to be forced in. Dont tell me Sam or Dean cant buy or get some African roots by their own?! ***?! Henricksen was an amazing character actually my favourite besides Dean and Sammy. Write somebody who is like Henricksen not somebody who is like Bela. I really do hope you guys wont come up with the "Bela is misunderstood and she is good at heart" thing. :-P

Comment #139 (Posted by Ashley) Rating: ratingfull

I agree with pretty much all of this, and yeah, i hate bella, but the whole, there's too much of Sam is ridiculous, you cant get enough of him, and whenever there is a show about Dean, it seems to be all about him, like the Jus in Bello, i almost forgot that Sam was even there, but Dean definitely deserves the spotlight once in a while, Happy Birthday, and good luck, guys, you have a lot of talent, and your putting it to great use.

Comment #140 (Posted by Bridie) Rating: ratingfull

I seem to be different from everybody else here because I'm not really bothered by Bela. I don't hate her and I don't love to hate her either. She's annoying, but let's face it some people simply are pains in the neck. However, those claims about bad writing are spot on. Her appearances in the episodes just aren't justifiable enough – I don't believe Gordon needs her to help him find Dean or that the brothers need her to buy stuff for them. Not very believable. Maybe, if you gave her a stronger connection with the story arch that could help her 'popularity'. On the other hand, I love Ruby. She is one of the best characters apart from the two protagonists. It would be interesting to explore her relationship with Dean seeing how he understands demons very one-sidedly as wholly negative characters and how Ruby doesn't actually fit into that frame. I was also hoping to see Dean go through the five stages of dying this season. But I have to say you're all doing an awesome job with this show and I can’t wait for season four. Keep up the good work.

Comment #141 (Posted by Emily) Rating: ratingfull

I'll probably get stones thrown at me for this,but whatever. I personally like both Bela and Ruby,they add a new interesting dynamic to the show without taking away from Sam or Dean.I another show the new characters would get all the attention,but I really don't find the writers trying to squeeze them in,we're getting information on them bit by bit,which keeps the viewer hating them but curious enough to like them. Ruby I find very interesting because it is a new angle on the demon spectrum.If all humans go to Hell,especially ones like Dean who are "good" and just made a bad Deal,can they really turn that evil?I like that everything isn't so black and white anymore,mixes things up in a way that just makes me more anxious to see the next episode. Bela is a bitch whom I love to hate,she puts the boys through the ringer in a manner that no one else can.I don't find them acting out of character or stupid around her,she's just very sly and cunning in a different way then most classical villians. I think the accusation that there is to much Sam is ridiculous,everything has remained balance as usual.Yeah,there has been a few Sam centric episodes,as well as Dean ones. I love how the writers has shown the stress and pain this deal is putting both the brothers through,I mean "Mystery Spot" had me laughing one minute then sobbing at the end! "Jus in a Bello" was a complete joyride,after it all my friends and I were like "They NEED to make a Supernatural video game!"cause that's what it reminded us of!Just crazy good action and emotions going,excellent job! I'm eagerly awaiting to see how the rest of this season turns out,especially with Deans deal.That storyline has got me so stressed!Seriously,I know you're going to leave us on a cliffhanger,and I can't wait for it! Many thanks for the interview and your time,it's grealty apperciated by many fans,happy writing!

Comment #142 (Posted by Emily Joy) Rating: ratingfull

I have to agree with most ppl I HATE BELA everything about her is annoying i hope that u find a horrible way for her to die. Whats with the Sam supernatural come on i thought that the show was about two brothers not just Sam. But other then Bela and all Sam centered Supernatural rules!!!

Comment #143 (Posted by EJ) Rating: ratingfull

I have to agree with most of the ppl that Bela is just HATED she makes the boys look dumb plz get rid of Bela and fast. I'm sick of the show always being Sam centered u can get sick of it always being about him. But other then that the writing team is doing an excellent job KEEP IT UP!!!!!!!

Comment #144 (Posted by Sherry) Rating: ratingfull

This question is for Bridie from comment 140. I was wondering what five stages of dying you would like to see Dean go though?

Comment #145 (Posted by dj) Rating: ratingfull

Probably talking about denial, fear, anger, bargaining, and acceptance.

Comment #146 (Posted by Bridie) Rating: ratingfull

Dj already answered for me. Those were the five stages I had in mind.

Comment #147 (Posted by ~ MOUSITSA ~) Rating: ratingfull

Sera is easily one of my favorite writers for Supernatural, but after this interview I seriously need to ask -- what the heck is she smoking? (and can I have some? because apparently it must be really good stuff granting excellent vision through those rose-colored glasses). To say I am extremely disappointed to hear the SN team spout the same old party line in regards to these new character additions for season 3 is an understatement. Little did I know that when Sera & Eric joked about <<give us Season 3 CW, and we’ll have boobs, lots of boobs>> on the AHBL DVD commentary, it was meant as a self-fulfilling prophecy. You've got the perfect excuse with the strike... their contract is soon over so cut your losses. #-#-#-#-#-# Sera was also interviewed in Nov. 2007 by the CW Source, which was posted in 3 parts. The overwhelming responses at that time were quite similar to the responses here. It was my fervent hope that the protracted writer's strike would have given the luxury of time to measure the pulse of the fans, consider the overwhelming evidence and smart arguments presented, and seriously reconsider the unfortunate course taken with RuBela. The proper introduction of such characters should have been "s p a r i n g l y" and NOT in every other episode! (perfect examples were Gordon & Henriksen… gee Sera (and Eric), thanks for killing off the great characters) And we LOVE Bobby, but we don't want to see him in every episode either, although give me Bobby any day over RuBela. #-#-#-#-#-# Even if CW was mandating the addition of the T&A for their teeny-bopper network, you have all the ammunition necessary to combat it -- the lack of increased ratings despite the media blitz for the "kick-ass girls." SN averages 3 million viewers, not 15 million like the competition. There was a loss of 300,000 viewers at the half-way mark during Red Sky (the Bela-heavy episode)... that's 10% of the audience walking away... ever stop to wonder why? The competition can lose 10% of its audience and it hardly makes a blip; we lose 10% and we're hemorrhaging. The competition doesn't have to listen to its audience because who cares if a million walk away... there's plenty to spare. But SN cannot afford to do that. Eric often says that you're all making the show for the audience. Really? Then please remove your rose-colored glasses and see what your audience has been commenting all along... and this is AFTER we've seen the episodes and given your little RuBela the benefit of the doubt. The reality of the situation is that one can't act to the quality level of SN, and the other just doesn't fit and has been destroyed to the point of no return -- or redemption. You want real kick-ass females portrayed by great actresses? you've got them already... Meg (in Nicki's form) and Ellen. The only thing putting me at ease is another thing mentioned in the DVD commentary <secondary characters don't last too long on this show>. You state that you understand and appreciate your audience, but sometimes I really have to wonder. In any case, I anxiously await the return of SN for the rest of the season... not for RuBela, but for Jensen, Jared, and Jim while crossing my fingers for Jeffrey, Nicki and Samantha. And remember, we complain because WE CARE!

Comment #148 (Posted by ~ MOUSITSA ~) Rating: ratingfull

Season 1 made me tingle with anticipation each week and completely captured my heart and soul. Season 2 started on a scary course with the Roadhouse and Jo that was quickly dealt with and thus that tingle of anticipation remained. But for Season 3, I have felt like I'm in mourning watching the slow descent from the pedestal of quality. Improbable deus ex machina situations, cliche character insertions, destruction of established character reactions, casting of mediocre "lead" actress "co-star(s)", and elimination of excellent characters portrayed by excellent actors are just some of the missteps. If it weren't for the outstanding work done by the two REAL stars, I would seriously question what happened to the Supernatural that I know and love. Look out for the new writer on your team... Jeremy Carver seems to "get it" with episodes such as Very SN Christmas and Mystery Spot -- because, yeah, it's all about the brothers! ###### With negotiations sadly failing with Samantha Ferris (Ellen) for the finale, I hope you don't elevate those annoying new characters to a more active role and ruin what would most likely be an incredible finale. Especially THIS year. With an early season 4 pickup, you now have the luxury of giving us the most terrifying, gut-wrenching, heart-stopping cliffhanger in the history of SN knowing that we'll all be back in September. The strike was painful on all sides. But our grassroots efforts never let up. We campaigned and promoted. We got 3.2 million viewers for Jus In Bello and survived against the similar-genre Lost. We got CW to reconsider removing SN from the re-run schedule and got an early return of the re-runs so that we can work on getting more viewers before new episodes air. We have done (and continue to do) our part in "telling a friend to tell a friend". Now PLEASE return the favor by listening to what your fans have been trying to tell you for months now.

Comment #149 (Posted by dj) Rating: ratingfull

Mousitsa is 100% on target with this. Please listen to her.

Comment #150 (Posted by Cindy) Rating: ratingfull

Yes! I am so glad everyone is on the same page with me on Bella. I would love her if I could despise her, but she isn't interesting enough to put any emotions into. She bores me to tears!

Comment #151 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

Bravo MOUSITSA!!!! well said

Comment #152 (Posted by Counteragent) Rating: ratingfull

First of all, I just want to say Supernatural is a great show and I love it. I do not think its quality is dropping, I think all 3 seasons are great in their own ways. Alright, now about Bela: I really did like her when you introduced her and by the end of the epiode I couldn't wait to see her again. Thing is, the next time Bela showed up, it was pretty much the same formula: boys are after something, Bela is too, Bela shows up, the boys go all dumb, Bela wins, then somehow it all works fine for the boys in the end. And then, man, it happened AGAIN. The first time Bela appeared, I liked that the boys were dumbed down: Bela is not the kind of threat they're trained to fight, so Bela gets the upperhand. But the same thing happening over and over again, the boys not learning from their mistakes and just making it easy for Bela handing her everything she wants in a silver plate (who would seriously open the safe where the Colt is stored IN FRONT of Bela?) has just became boring. Oh, and Sam having happy dreams about Bela and acting like a twelve year old girl in love around her in "Dream..." was just wrong. A Sam/Ruby hook-up I could accpet (of course, if written propperly), but with all the story between Bela and the boys... Sam was way out of character. I do not think, however, that Bela is beyond redemption. I can stand to see her again IF and ONLY IF you quit repeating the same formula over and over. Give us something more than a one dimensional character. We love villains with a side we can understand, that even if they're really really evil, get get why they do what they do even if we don't approve (Azazel had children, and evil as he was, that gave him a new layer). Ruby, on the other hand, I love her. Funny, I wasn't so much of a Ruby fan after the season premiere, but right after she was introduced as a demon in the second episode and the reason why she was introduced was revealed I screamed "MORE!". I really hope you don't get rid of Ruby, since she's grown on me and she IS a multi-layered character. Even if she ends up double crossing the boys (BUT PLEASE DON'T LET HER DO THAT) I could still like her (again, if it's propperly written). Oh, and I know the strike made some of the plots be dropped or moved to next season, but in episode two, Ruby started leading Sam on an investigation, I really want to see where that ends, if not in season 3, maybe in 4, but please finish that arc.

Comment #153 (Posted by Maria) Rating: ratingfull

Here's a crazy idea.... Dean gets fed up with Ruby's game and starts to exorcise her. As demon-Ruby leaves that damaged meatsuit behind, she jumps into Bela's meatsuit. This way we get the better actress, a change in the personality and attitude, tone down the annoying accent too, and CW gets a recurring hot chick on the show. It's a win-win for everyone!

Comment #154 (Posted by Jesse) Rating: ratingfull

Thanks for the heads up on everything... Waiting to watch Dean's last day is going to be tough. 2+ months away! "" The moral argument between Ruby and Dean was set up so that Dean was obviously right and heroic and Ruby was obviously wrong and evil. " I read quite few comments on the fandom that Dean was short-sighted and for this everyone was killed and the next time they should go with the Ruby's plan" Hindsight is 20/20. The whole plot line was to show how much Sam had changed and to see Dean being the only one sounding sane and actually siding with Hendrickson. So although I don't agree with what the person said in your quote... I do disagree with your take on what was the right decision.

Comment #155 (Posted by DJ) Rating: ratingfull

I think the character of Ruby would be better served by a different actress, on par with the caliber of Nikki Aycox or the actress who played Casey. As for Bela, Poster #152 has got some really good points; but I disagree with the redemption -- RSAM was too terrible to ignore or fix. And I'm not sure if I'm the only person who hates the term "meatsuit." It is so crude.

Comment #156 (Posted by ANONYMOUS) Rating: ratingfull

Great job on the show! I'm loving it more and more. I don't want to bitch about the characters, because the writers are portraying their own story and the story is great. Sure some of the characters are a little annoying, but so are some things in life but we learn to live with it. Sure improvements could be made to make it perfect but hell life isn't perfect. Nothing goes to plan. Keep up the great work!!

Comment #157 (Posted by an unknown user) Rating: ratingfull

I have loved the show since season one and have watched as it has changed and evolved. I have enjoyed every minute of it until Bela was introduced. I HATE Bela. Her character is pointless and doesnt fit the show or with the other characters. I dont feel she "dumbs down" the brothers its that they lose all logic and survival instincts when it comes to her. She has screwed them over so many times and yet they still trust her. Common sense would tell them to just stay away from her and yet they let her trick them over and over. Also why can't the show just be about the brothers? Why do they have to keep creating parts for a leading female role. Listen to the fans and get rid of this useless character called Bela.

Comment #158 (Posted by DJ) Rating: ratingfull

Re: Episode 15 *Spoiler* I think the only hope we have is that Bela's next episode will be her last. Maybe they will take the opportunity to get rid of her, because Kripke and the writers cannot possibly be underestimating the death knell that Bela's presence causes. I expect the ratings to dive. But, having said that, I believe Sera Gamble is writing this episode, and she is very stubborn about writing what SHE likes. Whenever I read an interview with anyone else, I take what they say about Bela with a grain of salt. I think Kripke understands the situation and is just honor bound to put a nice face on things until they can get rid of Bela. But, with Sera, I really do think she likes that character and is determined to force her down our throats. Hopefully, Kripke will rein her in, and make her kill Bela off. If they do that, we can start Season 4 afresh. Personally, in our house, we will record the episode, but we will not watch it until we read the next day's summary and review. If it turns out to be really Bela-heavy and she is not killed off, we'll just erase it unwatched. And if that happens, I will be most annoyed to have lost 25% of the remaining episodes because of Bela. Should they be so foolish as to continue the character into Season 4, I will likely keep my Season 1 and 2 DVD sets, and pretend that AHBL Part 2 was the series finale in which Sam and Dean drive off together because they've got work to do. Edit/Delete Message

Comment #159 (Posted by Anna) Rating: ratingfull

Both Ruby and Bela need to go ASAP as both have outlived their usefulness. They haven't brought up the ratings, they've contributed to the decline in quality, and worse, they've split the fandom. The T&A experiment is over and it failed miserably. One can't act to convince us of her role enough to take her seriously and the other fits nowhere logically in these stories. Sorry Kripke... but this was NOT the "best season ever". In fact, it's been downright painful. I almost wish it had ended with "Jus in Bello" because I'm just dreading what's to come. With 4 episodes left, one will be a stand-alone along the lines of Hell House or Tall Tales, and now a possible Bela-heavy episode too? with a possible redemption? and possibly tying Bela into the mytharc? Please tell me it isn't so! All I can say is Thank God that CW already committed to S4 because the ratings are going to take a hit. For the first time ever, I'm not looking forward in anticipation to new episodes. I just want this season to be over. Fine, let's finally have Sam turn to his darkside (hell, it's been hinted at since season 1), let's save Dean, and let's move on to S4 by hopefully going back to the successful formula of S1. Two brothers -- heroes -- on the road, saving people, hunting things... fighting their inner demons while battling the outer ones... and no gratuitous, useless T&A. Somebody please wake me when the REAL Supernatural returns.

Comment #160 (Posted by Chris) Rating: ratingfull

You know, right about now I'm really, really missing Raelle Tucker and John Shiban.

Comment #161 (Posted by Aurilia) Rating: ratingfull

Ms. Gamble, Like many of my fellow fans, I would first like to thank you for the time you took to do this interview; Gaia knows, not many writers ever get the chance to shout out about their work. Insofar as season three has run, I admit that it contains both my favorite and least favorite episodes of the show to date. My favorite episode has been ‘Mystery Spot’; everything about that episode was perfect, from the cracky humor of the first half, to the ‘OMFG WTF JUST HAPPENED????’ of the ‘first’ Wednesday, to the montage of alone!driven!Sam (and on a side-note, will we ever see some ramifications of Sam’s months without Dean? That doesn’t seem to be something that can just be ignored…). My least favorite episode is ‘Red Sky at Morning’, mainly because of the heavy Bela element. Regarding the whole Bela/Ruby issue in the fandom, I’d just like to take a moment to say that I initially liked the concept of Bela. Her introduction in ‘Bad Day at Black Rock’ was perfect – we got to see another side of the, I hesitate to call it the ‘Hunter’ community, but that’s the best I can come up with at this hour of the night. I liked how she was out for herself, how she was money-motivated, and how Dean managed to one-up her in getting the rabbit’s foot back. And then… Sigh. Then RSaM came along (though Sam getting hit on all night by a geriatric was abso-freaking-lutely hilarious) and suddenly it was as though Bela wasn’t there to be a bad guy any more; we were supposed to feel sorry for her. I think this forced the issue of the rampant Bela-hate in the fandom. And I have to agree with previous posters; excepting when Dean retrieved the rabbit’s foot, her presence on the show seems to dumb down our boys. One would think they would have learned to be cautious of her after she snaked Dean’s scratch tickets – ‘once bitten, twice shy’ and all that. Ruby, on the other hand, I disliked on sight. She struck me as someone wedged into the show to take Jo’s place as the resident bottle-blonde (and I can get away with saying that, since I am a natural blonde). She grew on me, rather like a fungus, right up until I watched ‘Malleus Maleficarum’. Honestly, knowing her backstory did absolutely nothing for me. In my opinion, based on what has already been set up, I think the mytharc would have been better served if we hadn’t found out about her personal history. The fact that Dean’s doomed to become a demon, should the deal prove unbreakable, could have been introduced in another way. While watching ‘Jus in Bello’, I cheered at the point where she said her spell would kill all demons nearby, even herself. I was oh-so-hoping for that outcome. Alas, it wasn’t meant to be. I also have to agree that the character was grossly miscast; perhaps the fandom would be more sympathetic to her if she got exorcized and took up residence in someone else, someone who didn’t look like a reject from Buffy. I mean no disrespect to the actress who plays Ruby, of course, only that in reviewing the episodes in which she appears, she just isn’t believable in the action sequences. Personally, I think it would be poetic justice to see the demon of Ruby possess Bela (now, why didn’t I think of that before? I’ll need to write a fic for that!). In conclusion, let me once again thank you for the interview and say that I’m looking forward to the upcoming episodes.

Comment #162 (Posted by finsbaby) Rating: ratingfull

well well...ALOT of people have spoken their minds I see, LOl I hope my opinion counts! Well um, I am satisfied with the season and I'm loving each and every episode. Just a few pointers though. 1) STOP and I mean STOP making Sam and Dean a tad bit dumber when Bela is around. I must agree, it angers me a little when Bela manages to con them. It's funny at times, but now it's to the point where I shout "You idiots!" at the screen. Sam-Dean...what would papa Winchester say? 2) Instead of only making Bela a con artist who often steals from the boys *wince* open up her storyline a little more. It's like everytime I see her I go "oh great what's she gonna steal now?" I love to hate Ruby. I just hate Bela(wait don't skip this) BUT I think that with a few tweaks, she'll be up there with Yellow eyes. No need to kill her just yet. How about Dean just scaring the **** out of her so bad that she never steals from them again. I mean if she REALLY knew Dean's limits, she wouldn't **** with him at all. This is really long but just two more things. Please fix the wedge between Sam and Dean that ruby is causing, and don't turn Sam evil if/when Dean dies. It's too cliched. Bobby and Ellen are back YAY! Thanks for that!

Comment #163 (Posted by Christa) Rating: ratingfull

Great interview, and like everyone else who has commented, I'd like to thank everyone involved in Supernatural for all their hard work and dedication in creating such an amazing tv show. I absolutely adore this programme, and hope it continues in its current high standard for a long time. I'm excited that Ellen is returning - I think she is a perfect example of a female character who works in this show. Meg was great too. Like many others however, I have a hard time finding any good qualities regarding Bela. She just irritates me, unfortunately. Ruby I find more interesting, although in all honesty, what drew me to the show and continues to keep me invested is the brothers. I find the family/brotherly dynamic between them very refreshing and fun to watch, especially when played by such talented actors as Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles. I'm excited to finally see the resolution of Dean's deal, and can't wait for Supenatural to be back on track again after the Strike. Wonderful, wonderful work on the show, keep it up! :)

Comment #164 (Posted by linder) Rating: ratingfull

great article, Sera, thanks so much for your time and commets. I do have to add my two cents worth though. Yes, add me to the ever expanding list of Bela haters. She's just too much of a cliche` to be appealing (to oversimplify many of the comments from above). Ruby grates on my nerves too much for me to have any affection for her whatsoever but I can accept the character a bit more. She at least serves a purpose despite Cassidy's lack of acting skills. I think that both characters would have been more accepted and appreciated if they hadn't been shoved down our throats as often as they have been. I realize that the Ostroff factor comes into play with the forced insertion of the two twitty chicks but I wish that it could have been done a little better. Did they need to be in what seemed like every other episode. I also realize that additional characters give Jensen and Jared a break but...they just don't do it for me. It is too bad that the actors that play Hendrikson and Gordon have gotten cast elsewhere because I'll really miss them. Oh, and by the way, I loved the egotism that you wrote into Hendrikson's character, so perfect for an FBI agent!

Comment #165 (Posted by Lisa) Rating: ratingfull

Firstly, Wow! Secondly, interesting spoilers for upcoming episodes! Thirdly, I have not missed an single episode of this season and the forth season should be great as this season has been (That would be the fantastic acting of Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki!) As for the characters of Ruby & Bela, I love Ruby's character (so opposite of the evil hell b***h demon Meg in first season) and loved how Ruby's past came and bit her in the ass in "Malleus Maleficarum" (was suprised finding out demons were originally mortals sent to hell - oooh doesn't look a very good future for Dean!) and that the fact Ruby could build the colt for Bobby and the boys. I reckon she's a great character plus can be an ally for the forecoming war against demons & the mortals (hope that would something to foreshadow in forth season) As for Bela Talbot, I like the idea of the character but I really hate it that she always one-up the boys (ie. rabbit's foot, the colt), and I'd love to see her a gory death for the thief of the colt!!! I cannot wait for the upcoming episodes including the season finale (I hope us Australians don't wait too long!)

Comment #166 (Posted by Ellie) Rating: ratingfull

I understand that people don't like Bella, but I think that is partially because the character is underdeveloped and also because the Dean-Sam storylines are so much more evolved. To be honest, what I dislike is this tendency to randomly kill of characters or threaten them. I have to be honest - the show IS Sam and Dean or Dean and Sam, however you choose to see it. Thus far, Dean has been threatened with death twice - he was electrocuted and then was supposed to die in the car wreck - and Sam was supposed to die at the end of the second season. To kill off the characters is to kill the show. They can't die. Using storylines with the Trickster where Dean died multiple times was a great way to play with the idea of one of them dying, but at the end of the day stop killing them off. It's become a cheap gimick to achieve ratings, but frankly it's too much like a soap opera. The episodes that keep me coming back are the ones where there is Sam and Dean with perhaps Bobby or Ruby or Jo or Ellen and even Bella where they work together towards a common goal. I laugh, I'm a bit excited or on edge and perhaps a bit scared. I like surprises, but I don't see a lot of surprises. I see weak story arcs for each season. The first one with the search for the father was good, but even then the father was not as developed as I would have liked to see. The whole idea of a demon recruiting children was ridiculous. There are enough evil people in the world that all the demon had to do was rob a bank and pay someone to do it. It could be done in less than 24 hours. No problem. Why go through all the hassle of recruiting children and choosing a human leader? It doesn't make any sense. Then, this whole idea of Dean dying? It can't happen. It simply can't. And if Dean were to become a demon that possessed his body with superpowers it would compromise the entire meaning of the show - the brothers' search for purpose in their lives and redemption for those they have lost.

Comment #167 (Posted by kat) Rating: ratingfull

i love to hate bela, i think she was quite good in the show. better than ruby anyway. great interview btw!

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Interview: Sera Gamble, Producer and Writer for "Supernatural"

CP Cochran

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