5 Most Satisfying Character Arcs in The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, Ranked

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I still remember when *The Vampire Diaries* first came out in 2009 – it was an instant success! The premiere broke records for The CW, and it just kept getting bigger and better with each season. It even spawned *The Originals*, which then got its own spinoff! It really created a whole universe that became a huge part of pop culture. And honestly, it’s easy to see why. *The Vampire Diaries* and its related shows were packed with drama, romance, and a cool supernatural vibe, but what really hooked me were the characters. They weren’t just vampires and supernatural beings; they felt real, relatable, and that’s what made the show so special.

Both *The Vampire Diaries* and *The Originals* featured characters who developed in compelling ways over the seasons. However, a few stories truly shine. From Elena’s transformation from a heartbroken teenager to an independent woman, to Klaus’s journey from frightening villain to a complex and flawed character, these five individuals have the most memorable arcs across both shows, making them unforgettable.

5) Elena Gilbert

At its heart, *The Vampire Diaries* is the story of Elena Gilbert. We first meet her as a teenager coping with the loss of her parents, and she quickly becomes entangled in a complex supernatural love triangle that dramatically changes her life. While Elena’s story begins with typical teen drama, it evolves into something much deeper than just grief, tragedy, and romance. Throughout the show’s eight seasons (even though Elena wasn’t a major part of the last one), she matures into a strong woman who learns to make her own choices, even if it means sacrificing her own happiness to protect the people she cares about.

4) Hayley Marshall

Hayley Marshall started as a minor character on *The Vampire Diaries*, but her story really came into its own on *The Originals*. Initially, she was known for creating trouble between Caroline and Tyler. However, everything changed when a brief encounter with Klaus led to an unexpected pregnancy. This event transformed Hayley from a troublemaker into a strong, determined woman dedicated to protecting her family and learning about her past. She ultimately became one of the most powerful characters in the *Vampire Diaries* Universe, and watching her evolve into a hero was truly rewarding, even though her story ended prematurely.

3) Damon Salvatore

Damon Salvatore’s story in *The Vampire Diaries* was particularly well-received by fans, and it’s easy to see why. He started as a truly villainous character – a heartless vampire who caused pain simply because he enjoyed it. But over the course of the show, Damon dramatically changed. Through his relationships with Elena and Bonnie, he learned to open up and connect with others. This transformation ultimately made him a better person, and in the end, he even became human, giving him the opportunity to live a fulfilling life.

2) Caroline Forbes

Caroline Forbes wasn’t an instant fan favorite on *The Vampire Diaries*. Initially, she came across as judgmental and a bit unpleasant, not always treating her friends very well. But becoming a vampire truly transformed her for the better. As a vampire, Caroline really blossomed, becoming the best version of herself. She gained confidence and became fiercely protective of those she cared about, always fighting for what she believed in. While she wasn’t perfect, Caroline consistently worked on herself and grew as a person. By the end of her story in *Legacies*, she’d evolved from an irritating teenager into a strong and admirable role model that her mother, Sheriff Forbes, would have been proud of.

1) Klaus Mikaelson

Klaus Mikaelson easily stands out as the most compelling character. When he first appeared in *The Vampire Diaries*, he was a frightening and brutal villain, but his harshness stemmed from a deeply painful past. Unlike the Salvatore brothers, Klaus dealt with his trauma in a unique way, which made his character development so rewarding to watch. His path to redemption was complex, beginning with his love for Caroline and continuing in *The Originals*, where he learned to care for someone other than himself – his daughter, Hope. Ultimately, Klaus, who initially seemed like the most self-centered character in the entire *Vampire Diaries* Universe, made the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life so Hope could have a future. His death in the *The Originals* finale was both heartbreaking and beautiful, providing a perfect ending to his incredible story.

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2025-09-23 03:10