Gil McKinney is set to reprise his Supernatural role in a future episode of The Winchesters. The prequel series, developed by Robbie Thompson and executive produced by Jensen Ackles, premiered on The CW on October 11. Set in the 1970s, the show observes the beginning of John Winchester and Mary Campbell's relationship, with Ackles' Dean Winchester narrating how his parents met and fell in love while battling monsters known as the Akrida, determined to destroy all life in their universe. The Winchesters stars Meg Donnelly, Drake Rodger, Nida Khurshid, Jojo Fleites, and Bianca Kajlich.
McKinney appeared in Supernatural as Henry Winchester, the paternal grandfather of Sam and Dean. His character was introduced in a season 8 episode, in which he traveled through time in an effort to escape the demon Abaddon, though he ultimately died as a result. He was last seen via flashbacks in season 9, expressing uncertainty regarding his future in the Men of Letters and unknowingly aiding in Abaddon's infiltration of the order. McKinney's voice can also be heard in The Winchesters' premiere as he reads the letter written to John, apologizing for keeping him in the dark and informing him that his family has fought against supernatural threats for centuries.
Now, TV Line is reporting that McKinney will guest star as Henry in The Winchesters episode 7. This news comes following Thompson's earlier confirmation that some Supernatural actors can be expected to appear in the last half of the series' debut season. Specifics regarding the actor's return have not been revealed.
Which Other Supernatural Characters Will Appear In The Winchesters?
In addition to Dean and Henry Winchester, fans of Supernatural can look forward to the return of other characters, though not all of them will be easily recognizable, with Thompson teasing that there are plans to introduce younger versions of some. More recently, it was revealed that Tom Welling will play a young Samuel Campbell, a role previously portrayed by Mitch Pileggi. Ackles has also commented on bringing back fan-favorite actors, saying that if the opportunity presented itself, they would make it happen, and that it could be possible to see certain individuals return in new roles.
McKinney reprising his role as Henry Winchester will almost certainly excite longtime fans of Supernatural who are aware of his story and its significance to John's character. Given the recent New York Comic Con appearance from Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who famously portrayed the older version of John, along with Ackles' statement about bringing back actors, it will be interesting to see if he joins McKinney by returning in some capacity. Those who enjoyed the season premiere of The Winchesters and are looking forward to more Supernatural tie-ins can be sure to tune in to new episodes as they air.
Source: TV Line