Ghosts Season 4 is set to introduce a new ghost that may shift the balance of the series, incorporating an element it has often sidestepped. Like its British counterpart, CBS’s Ghosts follows a couple who inherit a mansion from a distant relative. Sam, the show’s heroine, gains the ability to see the many spirits tied to the estate after a near-death experience. Despite its potentially eerie premise, the show typically leans into light-hearted comedy, avoiding deeper horror elements.
A Missed Opportunity for Horror
While Ghosts does touch on darkly comic moments surrounding the ghosts’ tragic deaths, it largely avoids traditional horror tropes, missing a chance to parody ghost stories effectively. However, Season 4 promises a shift with the introduction of Patience, a new ghost whose gruesome backstory and unsettling powers could bring a much-needed spooky vibe to the show.
Patience Brings Back Horror Tropes
Patience, a Puritan ghost, first appeared in the Season 3 finale when she took Isaac hostage, showcasing a chilling presence. According to series star Richie Moriarty, Patience possesses “intense” powers that elicit nervous reactions from both the living and the dead. Co-showrunner Joe Wiseman emphasized that Patience will be “meant to be funny but also a little scary,” a balance that could enrich the show’s narrative depth.
Mary Holland, known for her role in the dramedy Happiest Season, plays Patience. In a promotional clip, her character darkly jokes about her pale skin being a result of the bloodletting that caused her death, hinting at the show’s willingness to explore darker themes.
A Gruesome Power Set
While earlier seasons have shied away from true horror, Season 4 is poised to delve into Patience’s disturbing backstory and powers, likely tied to her bloody demise. Though the series has featured dead characters, it has maintained an upbeat tone, contrasting sharply with other shows that embrace a darker atmosphere. Patience’s powers could add an unsettling edge that the series has long avoided.
Embracing the Creepy Side of Ghosts
As Ghosts continues to develop its characters and storylines, Patience offers a perfect opportunity to incorporate creepiness into the show’s premise. With Holland’s charm, Patience can be a likable yet eerie character, enhancing the show’s dynamic as it expands its ghostly roster.
In contrast, other storylines in Season 4, like Sass’s backstory, may lean more towards poignant drama. This makes Patience’s role even more crucial, as she can inject moments of suspense and horror into the mix, balancing the lighter elements of the show.
Conclusion
Overall, Ghosts is overdue for a deeper exploration of its horror roots. With the arrival of Patience, the series has a chance to weave unsettling themes into its fabric, revitalizing its narrative and keeping audiences engaged. As Ghosts Season 4 unfolds, fans can look forward to a refreshing blend of comedy and horror, making Patience a timely and intriguing addition to the cast.
