Why Vampire Diaries’ Ian Somerhalder Wanted to Quit During Season 3

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Ian Somerhalder wanted to sink his teeth into more complex characters.

Because of this, the actor from The Vampire Diaries chose to contemplate leaving the popular TV show at its peak. In truth, he disclosed that as his character Damon Salvatore drew nearer to Nina Dobrev’s Elena Gilbert in season three, he became apprehensive about where he perceived his part on the series was going-resulting in an open discussion with co-creator Julie Plec.

46-year-old Ian, in his upcoming book titled “I Was Feeling Epic: An Oral History of The Vampire Diaries“, as reported by Variety on September 3rd, shares that he was extremely upset about the direction Damon’s character was taking. So much so, that he found himself in Julie’s office in Atlanta with tears almost brimming in his eyes, and actually with misty eyes, and asked to leave the show because he saw that Damon was being steered towards a love-interest role. In other words, Ian felt so furious about it, he wanted to quit the show as he sensed the character’s trajectory was shifting towards a romantic arc.

He added, “I found myself thinking, ‘Ah, here I am in my mid-thirties, with the fame from this series, I believe there’s plenty more I can discover that’s unique, intriguing, and perhaps a little unconventional.’

Ultimately, the Lost alum was worried bad boy Damon would be turned him “into a sappy character.”

However, Ian’s chat with Julie triggered a recollection in him about his contractual duty to carry on with the show. Moreover, it made him consider the overall storyline that was being mapped out for the series, which at the time hinted at Paul Wesley’s character Stefan Salvatore embarking on a darker journey.

He clarified in his upcoming book, available September 9th, that Julie responded, ‘You’re not quitting the show,’. He continued, explaining, ‘Julie is a key player on our show, a vital part of its essence; secondly, you have a six-year contract, so departing isn’t an option; and lastly, don’t fret, there needs to be multiple dimensions.’

Ian added, “She said something like, ‘I understand, Damon isn’t just a one-dimensional character.’ He replied, ‘This is a hundred-episode series for a man, and it includes high points, low points, and moments when he’s the antagonist, as well as the protagonist.’ Trusting in this ongoing development was necessary.

Confidence in the process was rewarded, as Ian remained a part of the show until its conclusion in 2017 after an impressive eight-season run. Looking back now, Ian continues to fondly recall his time spent on set.

“Five years ago today, The Vampire Diaries was wrapped up for good, as he shared on Instagram in February 2022. He reflected that this journey had been truly remarkable and added that together with everyone, something wonderful had been created.”

He exclaimed, “This is truly astonishing! Our show has joined the ranks of the most-watched TV shows ever. Incredible!

After spending a significant amount of time on the popular series, he came to value the experience. However, since leaving his Hollywood life behind with his partner Nikki Reed and their two children, he no longer yearns for the limelight.

For quite some time now, Ian shared with TopMob News in January 2024, he has deeply enjoyed his work in filmmaking. He’s been at it for a considerable span, and they’ve had an extraordinary journey along the way.

Initially, Ian chose to stay committed to “The Vampire Diaries,” but several other actors decided to leave before the end. To discover other surprising television departures that actually occurred, continue reading.

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2025-09-03 23:19