Misha Collins upgraded to Series Regular on 'Supernatural'

Shortly after news broke that everyone's favorite demon-fighting brothers, the Winchesters, would be returning in a ninth season of 'Supernatural' on the CW, now it's being reported that Misha Collins (who plays the brothers' friend and angel of the lord, Castiel) has been upgraded to a series regular for the upcoming season.

Collins joined 'Supernatural' in the fourth season as a recurring character and was upgraded to series regular for seasons five and six. Beginning with the seventh season, Collins has appeared only as a special guest star (now halfway through season eight), for reasons that fans of the show already understand.

Collins' role on 'Supernatural' is the brightest feather in his career cap, salvaging a career that took an unfortunate turn when he starred as Canadian serial killer Paul Bernardo in the feature film 'Karla.' The film was poorly received both for being insensitive to the families of the victims as well as painting Bernardo's partner Karla Homolka in a far more favorable light than the facts of the Bernardo/Homolka case deserved. Collins himself has expressed remorse regarding the film and his turn as Castiel on 'Supernatural' has helped rebrand the actor in the public image.

Fun fact: Collins is also a published poet. His poems, including "Baby Pants", and "Old Bones" can be found in the 2008 edition of the Columbia Poetry Review #21.

Actor? Poet? What's next for Misha Collins? How about director.

Collins is slated to direct at least one episode of the ninth season of 'Supernatural,' marking his directorial debut on television. Lots to look forward to for 'Supernatural' fans!