While the ghosts in CBS’s Ghosts always had supernatural abilities, season 4 has elevated the show’s dynamic by expanding these powers in thrilling new ways. The latest season introduced Mary Holland’s character, Patience the Puritan, who briefly joined the Woostone Mansion after kidnapping Isaac following his breakup with Nigel at the end of season 3. Although she seemed poised to stay, the ghosts later helped her return to “the dirt” just a few episodes into season 4.
This wasn’t necessarily a loss, as Patience proved to be a chaotic addition to the group. In one memorable instance, she made the mansion’s walls bleed human blood, outraged that Sam’s father, Frank, was sharing a bed with his girlfriend. This unsettling ability was unlike anything seen before and underscored how much the ghosts’ powers have intensified since season 1. Although Patience tried to exaggerate her powers in season 4’s “Halloween IV: The Witch” episode, she ultimately chose to return underground after Isaac called her out for her obsession with TV.
How Ghosts’ Powers Have Evolved Since Season 1
Patience’s brief role in season 4 highlighted just how far the ghosts’ powers have come. Her implication that she could turn Sam into a stone statue was a game-changer, casting uncertainty over what the ghosts are truly capable of. While these powers have been present since season 1, they were initially quite limited: Alberta could hum, Trevor could slightly move small objects, and Isaac could emit an unpleasant odor. By season 3, Pete could leave the mansion grounds, and season 4 saw Patience making walls bleed. This significant power escalation has redefined what ghostly powers can be.
Why Ghosts’ Power Creep Is a Positive Change
The gradual “power creep” has been beneficial, adding fresh excitement to the series. Alberta’s humming, once impressive, now seems almost quaint compared to Patience’s intense abilities, a point the other ghosts and even Jay humorously point out. Though Patience’s powers were shocking, they’ve opened the door for more creative storytelling. The jump from minor telekinetic feats to supernatural events like bleeding walls may be dramatic, but it’s a welcome improvement, injecting the series with new life and humor while keeping viewers guessing about the ghosts’ untapped potential.
