Ghosts needs to resolve a story issue that has been building for three years to maintain the show’s believability. Since its debut on CBS in 2021, inspired by the BBC series of the same name, the American version has diverged significantly from its British counterpart. While both series feature characters with notable similarities, the U.S. Ghosts must incorporate a crucial detail to ensure its continued success.
In both iterations, the ghosts have the ability to “move on.” This transition occurs when the spirits achieve a certain level of personal growth, allowing them to finally find peace. In the British series, this phenomenon is visually depicted with the spirits being pulled upward, while in the American version, it’s referred to as “getting sucked off.” For the U.S. series to remain compelling, it must act on this concept in Season 4.
Sam’s Ongoing Struggle to Help the Ghosts
As Season 4 approaches, it’s noteworthy that Sam has yet to successfully help any ghost move on. Her ability to see the spirits haunting the Woodstone B&B stems from a tragic accident. Initially unsettling, Sam eventually views this ability as a gift and believes her purpose is to aid the ghosts in transitioning to the afterlife.
Portrayed by Rose McIver, Sam shows a deep care for those around her, including the ghosts. She engages with them by watching TV, helping them earn money, and supporting their hobbies. Despite the chaos they bring to her life, Sam’s desire to assist these spirits conflicts with her wish to enjoy their company. This commitment makes her efforts to help them move on feel increasingly significant.
Time for the Series to Deliver on Its Promise
While it’s always tough to say goodbye to beloved characters, CBS Ghosts should facilitate a ghost moving on in Season 4. Sam’s aspiration to help the spirits is a key part of her attachment to Woodstone Estate; failing to act on this promise would diminish the emotional stakes of the series. The British version concluded after five seasons, and while the American adaptation shows no signs of stopping, ignoring such a pivotal storyline would be a missed opportunity.
The closest the U.S. series has come to a ghost moving on was in Season 3 with Flower, who became trapped in a well. Although her eventual return was heartwarming, Sam’s continued inability to help her friends could lead to a loss of morale. The American show should take inspiration from the British Ghosts, where Mary (Katy Wix) successfully moved on in Season 4.
Who Should Move On in Season 4?
Ghosts Season 4 should finally allow a character to move on, ideally one with whom Sam has a connection. This doesn’t have to be a main character; even a side ghost like Crash or Stephanie could work. Crash, a greaser ghost from the 1950s who died on the estate, has been somewhat underutilized compared to his British counterpart, Humphrey. Giving Crash a more substantial storyline before his departure could add emotional weight to his transition.
Alternatively, Stephanie, who only appears once a year as a teenage ghost, could also be a candidate. Sam has already helped her by organizing a prom, making Stephanie’s potential move a meaningful continuation of their relationship.
In conclusion, for Ghosts Season 4 to truly resonate, the show must embrace the opportunity to let a spirit move on, thus honoring its premise and adding depth to its narrative.
