Guest stars: Ruth Connell (Rowena)

Other Spoilers/info:

Ruth appearing is only a guess based on Steve’s tweets to her and the title.

Supernatural did scenes earlier this week in Steveston for episode 131 . The day started with Jared Padalecki as Sam Winchester & returning recurring star Ruth Connell as Rowena doing a scene where they talked inside the Impala. The scene seemed to be quite long. It took several minutes to do each take.

After they shot that scene, Jensen Ackles arrived to do scenes as Dean Winchester, along with the pair. He joined them in the car for a scene with them.

After shooting that scene, they moved outside the car. Dean started out in the middle of the street while Sam is chasing after Rowena before she turns around and casts a spell on the brothers freezing them in place. Sam and Dean yell at Rowena to let them go, each them trying to push through, before they both fall over.

A little later the crew moved on to a different location. I didnt stay around to watch that shoot.

Other Spoilers/info:
Misha and Mark filmed together, talking about Jack.
Jensen, Jared, Ruth and a nother woman filmed exterior shots on a street. The boys were holding a Grimoire.

THE WITCH IS BACK – Dean (Jensen Ackles) falls victim to a couple of witches, sisters Jamie (guest star Jordan Clair Robbins) and Jennie Plum (guest star Elise Gatien), who manage to steal a powerful book of spells from the Winchester brothers. When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean go after the book, they get help from a powerful and surprising ally when Rowena (guest star Ruth Connell), back from the dead, intervenes to assist them. Amanda Tapping directed the episode written by Steve Yockey (#1312). Original airdate 2/1/2018.

Despite being presumably killed by Lucifer (Mark Pellegrino) in the Season 12 finale, Rowena (Ruth Connell) will return to help out Sam (Jared Padalecki) and a lovestruck Dean (Jensen Ackles) this week. This latest episode finds the brothers in a tough spot when two witches steal a powerful book of spells after casting one on the elder Winchester, forcing the unlikely allies to embark on an interesting journey of magic, retribution and a little bit of fun.

"There's nothing cuter than a lovestruck Jensen Ackles," Ruth Connell told TV Guide.

While it's unclear how the red-headed sorceress will come back from the dead — or if the character manifests in a different way — we do know that her aid won't come for free. "Usually with Rowena, there must be something in it for her...They do seem to have something that she needs," Connell teased. Plus, it's another opportunity to mess with the Winchesters since they do have quite a bit in common.

Wayward Sisters Is The CW's Best Chance of Launching a Supernatural Spin-Off

"There's a shared experience that she has with [with Dean and Sam]...and there's potential there for a deepening of their relationship," she added.

However, forming a stronger bond with the demon-hunting brothers will be a difficult task given that her mind is consumed with revenge after being brutally murdered by Lucifer. "It's in every single fiber of her being," Connell said of the heated rivalry. "I think how she feels about Lucifer is pretty epic. We'll see how that progresses."

The episode will also see her come to terms with the death of Crowley (Mark Sheppard), who killed himself with an angel blade as a way of trapping Lucifer in a parallel universe. Although they weren't exactly a loving family unit, Connell says Rowena and her son shared an "irrevocable bond" and his loss will hit her hard. "You'll see her being pretty affected," she explained. "There's a real turning point in her personal life when she hears about Crowley."

After everything that's happened with Lucifer and Crowley, the all-powerful witch is channeling that rage and grief into a newfound sense of purpose which could lead to her finally starting her own major coven. That is, if other things don't get in her way. "You'll see her with more of a determination," said Connell.

Get to know actor, writer, producer, and all-around badass Mike Kovac. Out of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada this super talent has been in such hot shows as “Travelers,” “The 100,” “Tin Star,” and he’s returning to “Supernatural” in this week’s episode ‘Various & Sundry Villans.’ He’s also a walla performer and chances are we have all heard his voice on practically every show. Find out more about this guy who loves to play the bad guy and loves being a nerd.

Colleen Bement: You are in Thursday’s “Supernatural” episode ‘Various & Sundry Villans.’ What was it like on the set?

Mike Kovac: Working on set, in general, is always a blast, and working on the set of “Supernatural” is especially great. I’ve had the privilege of working with the team on two different episodes now as two different characters (which checks off a personal goal of mine) and both experiences have been absolute riots. My original role was ‘Jackson’ the demon in season 7, which treated me to two weeks of showing up on set and throwing people around via telekinesis. Who doesn’t want that job?! Within a single episode, I got to be a Leslie Odom Jr.’s lackey, beat up DJ Qualls with my mind (both of whom were absolute gentlemen), and duke it out with Emily Perkins (who I have wanted to work with since seeing her rock the screen in “Ginger Snaps”). It was fantastic! (Spoiler Alert: I got to settle the score with Emily in “Extraterrestrial,” which shot a few years later.) As well, working with Jared and Jensen was lovely. Both were very inviting in welcoming me to set and made me feel like part of the family.

Returning this time around was like coming back into the fold. I had the pleasure of working with Amanda Tapping of “Stargate SG-1” fame (among others) again as our director. Our paths crossed originally on “Van Helsing,” where she brought out the very best in our vampires. Stunt royalty was present in the form of Mr. Rob Hayter, our coordinator! Rob’s stunt list is literally in the triple digits, and will likely be most identifiable to fans as “Bob” from “Deadpool.”

Needless to say, it was fun – always fun. The show is a well-oiled machine run by great people. The stories are always interesting and engaging, and I’m thrilled to have been a part of it once more.

Colleen Bement: Tell your fans about your role of Jamie Plum in this week’s “Supernatural” episode.

Jordan Claire Robbins: It was an absolute blast. I really loved working with the director, Amanda Tapping, and she created a really playful and collaborative energy while shooting. The entire cast and crew of the show work together like a well-oiled machine and the set could not have been more positive or welcoming to walk onto! And I loved the opportunity to do my own stunts.

CB: Your IMDB is just exploding with cool projects. What can you share about the very cool film “Anon” and any others that you have in the works?

JCR: “Anon” was a really great experience. I loved the concept and script right away. Andrew Niccol is an amazing writer and director, and all of his movies really make you think. He has a brilliant mind and it was very cool to be able to step into this world he created. His directing style was very hands-on and technical, which is why all of his films have such a distinct style. I have also respected Clive Owen’s work for a long time so it was a very exciting opportunity to meet and work with him (he was lovely and made me feel very comfortable). Since finishing “Anon,” I produced a darkly comedic short film that I wrote, called “Driver Is Arriving Now.” Producing and seeing something I wrote come to life was a very unique experience. I learned a lot from taking on that role and then learning how to switch from writing/producing brain to actor brain. I think being behind the camera makes you a better actor and artist, and I have a lot of newfound respect for the amount of work that goes into a film from all angles.

CB: I read that you are also a singer/songwriter. What genre of music do you love?

JCR: I have always had a deep love for music, and growing up I played the piano, flute, and sang. In high school, I sang a lot of classical music as well as in a jazz band, but now I tend to lean more towards performing acoustic, folky styles of music. In terms of what genres I love to listen to, I have a very eclectic and widespread range of taste. I often listen to classical music or old jazz songs and love throwing on performers like The Temper Trap and Vance Joy. I also enjoy the classics like Johnny Cash and Fleetwood Mac. The best music makes you feel something, and I usually use it to help me connect with characters I’m playing.

CB: Did you really grow up in Bermuda? Wow, what was that like?

JCR: I did! I was born there and lived there until I graduated from High School, which is when I moved to Canada. Bermuda was a really special, beautiful place to grow up. On Fridays, after school my family anchored our boat in a little bay and ate pizza and swam, and every year we would at least have a few hurricane days (which I loved because there’s something really romantic about having no power, lighting candles, and staying cozied up inside while it rages outside). It’s a really small island and it feels very safe and friendly. I graduated with most of the same kids I was in first grade with. Growing up on an island gave me a deep love for and connection to the ocean, and I don’t like to be away from it for too long.

CB: How do you unwind after a crazy day of filming?

JCR: I’m a big fan of sweatpants and tea, and I’ll usually throw on some Netflix and order takeout or cook. Even when it’s super late I can’t go right to bed because I love being onset and it gets me pretty wired, but I love to read and that helps me wind down so I can sleep well after a crazy day.

“Supernatural” fans welcome Elise Gatien back to the set with her role in this week’s episode ‘Various & Sundry Villans.’ This talented actress who is already well known for popular shows such as “Ghost Wars,” “Colony,” and “iZombie” can also be spotted on one of the CW’s newest shows “Life Sentence.” Catch Elise’s stories from the set with Jared, Jensen, and this week’s director, Amanda Tapping. The former model was born in Kamloops, British Columbia and his the ski slopes whenever possible.

Colleen Bement: You play the role of Jennie Plum is this week’s “Supernatural” episode ‘Various & Sundry Villans.’ Tell us about your experience on the set.

Elise Gatien: Playing Jennie Plum was honestly some of the most fun I have ever had on set. Steve Yockey wrote such evil, hilarious yet heartbreaking characters for Jordan Claire Robbins and I, and Amanda Tapping our talented, kick ass director helped us bring it to another level. It was also such a treat to work with Jared and Jensen, it was really cool to watch their dynamic with each other. They really feel like brothers, they are constantly laughing and having fun with the crew but also somehow manage to be productive and professional while they do it.

CB: Are you a fan of “Supernatural” and any other CW shows?

EG: Yes I am! I actually have a lot of CW favorites. We are so lucky to have a lot of CW shows shoot in Vancouver, so a lot of them I have started watching as either research or to support my friends, and then I always seem to get hooked. One that stands out of course is “Riverdale,” I mean who doesn’t have a girl crush on Cheryl Blossom, let’s get real.

CB: Do you have any projects in the works that you’re allowed to chat about?

EG: “Ghost Wars” is a show very dear to my heart that I spent last summer pouring my heart into. I play Maggie Rennie who also just happens to be a ghost. The first season will be coming to Netflix worldwide soon, so make sure you check it out. I am currently working on season 3 of “Colony,” which is very exciting for me because I am already such a big fan of the show and I will also be making an appearance on one of the CW’s newest shows “Life Sentence,” so keep your eye out for me!

CB: I read that you love to travel. What are two of you “bucket list” countries that you want to visit?

EG: Yes! Number one on my list is definitely Croatia, my favorite types of places to travel to are hot with beautiful beaches that also have cool cities with lots of culture that I can immerse myself into. A few years ago I did Spain and Portugal with some girlfriends, I would love to go back and explore more of Portugal as well, we only went to Lisbon and we all fell in love and wished we had had more time to see the rest of the country.

CB: I see that you like to ski. Do you love hitting the black diamonds or chilling on the greens?

EG: Skiing is very dear to my heart. Skiing was my dads’ passion, so he taught all us kids before we could even walk. I even used to ski race when I was younger. I must say I prefer either a groomed black diamond or hiking for some powder in the back country.

CB: How has your life changed since becoming an actress?

EG: To be honest I don’t really think it has, I can tell you what it has taught me though. Be true to yourself, make strong choices and always buy cancelation insurance on your flights.

TrunkSpace: You’re set to guest star in tonight’s episode of “Supernatural,” a show that has built up a very passionate fandom over its 13 seasons on the air. What are your thoughts on getting to enter into the “Supernatural” universe and be a part of such a rich world with so much story already having been told?

Robbins: “Supernatural” has one of the best fan bases of any show, and I think it’s amazing that after 13 seasons the Winchester brothers are still going strong! I was incredibly excited to get to jump on board with the show and to get to be a part of Dean and Sam’s story. Because everyone on the show has been working together for so many years, it felt like one big family and the energy on set was extremely positive and welcoming. It was a joy to be a part of and I was sad when we wrapped the episode!

TrunkSpace: In the episode you’re playing a witch, a type of foe the Winchester brothers have had to take on numerous times as Hunters. How does your Jamie Plum compare to those witches that came before? How powerful is she?

Robbins: Well, you’ll have to tune in on Thursday to find out exactly what Jamie is capable of, but I will say that committing to the “Supernatural” world and casting spells made me feel very powerful as an actor! It was a treat to get to play a witch, especially knowing the brothers’ loaded history with them on the show.

TrunkSpace: From a performance standpoint, what did you enjoy most about Jamie Plum? Did she allow you to go anywhere new that you have yet to go on-screen with a character in the past?

Robbins: When I first auditioned for the part, I remember being most excited at the thought of playing a character who has so much fun. Jamie has a sense of humor that is very similar to mine, and it felt like a very natural character for me, probably more so than any I have played before. I also loved her confidence; she doesn’t shy away from her power, which was a really fun thing to play with.

TrunkSpace: Those Winchester brothers are very handsome. When they’re running around the set trying to murder your character, do they lose some of their handsome luster? Is there any situation… any bad lighting… food-on-their-face moment where they’re not as ruggedly good looking as reflected in the series?

Robbins: Well… I hate to break it to you, but they are indeed as ruggedly handsome offscreen as they are onscreen! They also are both very kind, and VERY funny – the time in between takes was usually spent laughing and as you can imagine this made for really enjoyable shoot days. They are not only good at what they do, but they also have a blast doing it!

TrunkSpace: Speaking of good looking people, you’re very beautiful yourself and in addition to your acting career, you’re also a model. Do you feel like you have had to convince people within the industry that you’re not a model who wants to act, but an actress who models? Is that a hurdle you have faced?

Robbins: Why thank you! I got into modeling almost 10 years ago while I was studying at University, and it has given me many great opportunities to travel and meet wonderful people. While acting has always been my biggest passion and dream, modeling gave me the chance to get very comfortable being on camera and practice taking direction. When I decided it was time to put more energy into acting, my modeling agents were extremely supportive. I think at one time or another most actors, with or without a background in modeling, have felt a sort of pressure to prove that they are serious about wanting to act. I have been fortunate enough to study with some amazing acting teachers and to learn from experience, and I am grateful to have both modeling and acting as creative outlets.

TrunkSpace: Do you envision yourself playing a character when you’re modeling, even when there isn’t dialogue involved? Are you tapping into someone else within yourself?

Robbins: Well at the risk of sounding like Derek Zoolander… yes. In the same way an actor onscreen can say a lot with only their eyes, I think a photo is always much more interesting when the model is present and genuinely feeling something. I often play with different emotions during a photoshoot to keep myself engaged – there is a difference between a forced smile and a smile when someone is happy and enjoying themselves. Plus it’s more fun that way!

TrunkSpace: As your acting career continues to grow and branch off into new and exciting directions, do you anticipate modeling still being a part of your life or is it something you see yourself leaving behind as new opportunities present themselves?

Robbins: I see photography and acting as being intertwined forms of art; I have always loved the collaborative efforts that go into creating a great photograph, and I think as my acting career continues to develop I will continue to enjoy doing both.

TrunkSpace: Speaking of opportunities, you’re set to appear in the upcoming Netflix movie “Anon” starring Clive Owen and Amanda Seyfried. With that cast, and the Netflix brand behind it, do you view the project as a bit of a career game changer?

Robbins: Shooting “Anon” was definitely an amazing opportunity and big learning experience. Most of all, it was a complete gift to be able to work with a very talented and seasoned group of people, and made me feel grateful and excited to keep working with actors of that caliber. Clive was lovely and having been a fan of his for a while, it was very happy to get to work with him!

TrunkSpace: What did you take from your “Anon” experience that will stay with you for the rest of your career?

Robbins: Andrew Niccol, the writer and director of the film, has a brilliant mind and unique attention to detail that translates beautifully into all of his films. The style “Anon” was shot in presented some technical challenges for me as an actor, and while shooting I felt relieved that I had emotionally prepared for my scenes enough so that when taking direction I could let go and trust in myself. That was an important lesson to learn – that the biggest gift I can give myself is to show up prepared in every possible way, so I can let go in that moment and the work is free to take on a life of its own.

TrunkSpace: From what we understand, you moved from Bermuda… sunny, warm Bermuda… to Toronto. Are the winters are reminder (particularly this winter!) of the warmth you left behind? Don’t get us wrong, we love Toronto (Go Blue Jays!), but… BERMUDA!

Robbins: I see your point! I may be biased, but I think Bermuda is truly the most beautiful place on earth and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t sometimes long to be there when I’m away, especially on the coldest of winter days. But I can’t complain because I am doing what I love over here, and luckily it’s a quick flight from Toronto; it’s reassuring to know that I can get home even for a few days to recharge when I need my fix of ocean and family time. I’ve been living in Vancouver for much of the last year, which is very different from Bermuda but stunning in its own way; I definitely feel most like myself when I’m close to ocean and/or mountains!

TrunkSpace: People change throughout the course of their lives. The core you is always the same, but interests and motivations find different nesting spots. Today, in 2018, what motivates you to continue to pursue acting and other creative endeavors?

Robbins: I’d say my biggest motivator right now is self-growth and really stepping outside of my comfort zone with each role I take on. The last year has really been about learning to be kinder and more patient with myself, and to let go more so things can unfold in their own way. (I can be a bit of a control freak!) The more I work, the more I realize how much there is to learn and discover about who I really am and how I can give of myself more deeply if I take my ego out of the equation. It excites and humbles me to get into the life of a character so much that I learn and discover new things about myself and new ways of perceiving the world, which then gives me more to work with. Being a good artist is impossible to do if you’re not in touch with yourself in an honest and nurturing way, and I’m most excited to keep growing into a better human as my career continues.

TrunkSpace: As you look forward, down the road that lies ahead, what type of career do you hope to have when all is said and done? If you could choose your exact path, what would it look like?

Robbins: When all is said and done, I want to be able to look back on my career and know that I never held back or shied away from a challenge, and I want my work to have had a meaningful impact on people. It’s important to me that I take on roles that scare and intimidate me in some way, because if I’m resisting something it probably means I need to throw myself into it. Last year I wrote and produced a short film called “Driver Is Arriving Now,” and I really enjoyed being behind the camera – I would love to keep exploring that side of things. Directing has always intrigued me so I hope to delve into that one day too. But for now, the goal is to not think too far ahead so I can give my full commitment and attention to what is in front of me!

She’s baaack! Proving you can’t keep a good witch down, Rowena returns from the dead once again during this Thursday’s Supernatural (The CW, 8/7c).The redhead unexpectedly steps in to help after a pair of sister spellcasters steal a powerful book from the Winchesters, whose reaction to Rowena’s sudden reappearance is more “Here we go again” than “Holy crap!”

Supernatural Spoilers“They’ve been around the block with witches before. I don’t know how surprised they are [to see her],” Ruth Connell says, adding that her opening line to the boys is a “pretty classic” bit of Crowley dialogue.

Although Rowena’s remains were savagely burned by Lucifer during last May’s finale, Connell wasn’t surprised to learn of her character’s comeback. “I always knew it was a temporary pause,” the actress admits. Still, she was “genuinely disturbed” by Rowena’s demise while watching the season ender back in her native Scotland.

“It just showed me how quickly it can all go away,” Connell explains. “I actually felt some of the loss, even though I knew it wasn’t true, and the situation was going to change. It was so tough. I thought it was pretty disturbing, in a good way, because that’s the value women’s lives had, and that was the way they were treated. They were burned at the stakes… Rowena’s kind of meaningless to [Lucifer]. I liked how hard it was to take. I appreciated that as a viewer.”

Supernatural SpoilersBut Rowena is hardly a victim, as evidenced by her multiple rebirths. “She’s just this survivor, no matter what,” Connell describes. “As long as there’s a molecule of Rowena with some kind of life in it, she will come back. She will rise again.” And so she does during this Thursday’s installment, presumably thanks to a charm which she also supplied to the Winchesters’ enemy, Mr. Ketch. Rowena’s mysterious dealings with the Brit — who’s on the hunt for the witch — aren’t the focus of the “fun” hour, but another major twist is addressed: the death of Rowena’s son, Crowley. “The actual moment she finds out [he died] is in the episode,” Connell teases, “and her response [is] pretty telling.”

Could Mom have it in her magical abilities to bring back the former King of Hell? “If anyone could, she would be the one… but that would involve [actor] Mark Sheppard wanting to be resurrected,” Connell says. “I don’t know if that’s in the cards or not. I will definitely miss having him to work with, to play with me. It’s a loss, for sure, for Ruth, never mind Rowena. But I’m just really grateful that the writers are finding relationships and dynamics and reasons to keep me around.”

Warner Bros. TV has provided ComicBook.com with an exclusive preview of tonight's episode of Supernatural, titled “Various & Sundry Villains.”

The episode features the return of Rowena (Ruth Connell), and we get right into it with this clip, which features her going back and forth with the boys while riding the Impala through Stillwater, Oklahoma. Connell was glad to have Rowena back from the dead, even if the story's pacing meant that she had her longest break since joining the show...and it took a couple of days to shake the rust off.

"It's so brilliant to be back," Connell told ComicBook.com. "There was more of a gap than there might have been; it was to do with the way the season ended, and how soon they could bring me back. It turns out almost to be a full year where I wasn't filming. It was so odd having been feeling like almost a regular to [not appearing at all]. I'm going back this episode as guest star. It took me a couple of days. Because I was not in the groove. It took me a couple of days and I think it was the third day our director, Amanda Tapping -- she's so brilliant; we've got brilliant women -- she gave me a compliment at the end of the day and the crew, there was a real warm moment at the end of the day. I could kind of relax and, 'Oh, I am back. I'm properly back.' It's so wonderful."

Ep 1312 of #Supernatural
Editor: @Don_Koch
Assistant Editor: Bruce Gorman
Composer: @jaygruska
Director: @amandatapping
Writer: @SleepyPanda76
#VariousAndSundryVillains #SPNFamily