Just as The CW confirms the renewal of "Supernatural" for a sixth season, series creator Eric Kripke is stepping down as the day-to-day showrunner, according to Entertainment Weekly columnist Michael Ausiello.

Executive producer Sera Gamble is expected to replace Kripke; Gamble has been with the series since Season 1.

However, Kripke will continue to be involved in the show. According to Ausiello, a source is indicating Kripke and his current co-showrunner, Robert Singer, will serve as hands-on executive producers.

Eric and Bob will be working very closely with Sera, said the source. They are not abandoning the show.

Last August Kripke clarified his view on why he saw "Supernatural" as being a five-season show.

Im looking at this season as the [last] chapter in this particular story, he explained. That doesnt mean there cant be a new story. 'Buffy' did it. The 'X-Files' did it. You close a chapter on a big mythology storyline and then you begin a new one.

Finalizing a new deal with Warner Bros., Kripke now seems poised to pursue the development of new shows as his "Supernatural" responsibilities are reduced.