Watch The Vampire Diaries & The Originals In Order
Lost in the sprawling universe of vampires, werewolves, and hybrids? Navigating the intertwined narratives of The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, and Legacies can feel like traversing a labyrinth of supernatural intrigue. Fear not, for a definitive guide to unlocking the chronological secrets of this captivating franchise awaits.
The interwoven timelines of The Vampire Diaries and The Originals create a rich tapestry of storytelling, allowing viewers to delve deeper into the complex relationships and histories of these immortal characters. From the small town of Mystic Falls to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, the narrative expands, revealing new layers of mythology and adding emotional depth to the saga.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Name | The Vampire Diaries Universe |
| Created by | Kevin Williamson & Julie Plec |
| Based on | The Vampire Diaries book series by L. J. Smith |
| Original Series Premiere | September 10, 2009 (The Vampire Diaries) |
| Spin-off Series | The Originals (2013), Legacies (2018) |
| Network | The CW |
| Genre | Supernatural drama, Teen drama, Fantasy |
| Further Information | Wikipedia - The Vampire Diaries (franchise) |
The journey begins, naturally, with The Vampire Diaries. Follow Elena Gilbert as she navigates the complexities of high school life, complicated by the arrival of the Salvatore brothers, Stefan and Damon. This initial series lays the groundwork for the entire universe, introducing key characters, intricate lore, and the captivating mythology of vampires, werewolves, witches, and hybrids.
As the narrative unfolds in Mystic Falls, the enigmatic Original family emerges, their presence adding a layer of ancient history and unmatched power to the storyline. This is where careful viewing becomes crucial. Once you reach season four, episode 20 of The Vampire Diaries, titled "The Originals," it's time to embark on a parallel journey. This episode serves as a backdoor pilot for the spin-off series, introducing the Mikaelson siblings and the captivating city of New Orleans.
To truly appreciate the interconnectedness of these narratives, alternate between episodes of The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, following the chronological flow of events. While challenging, this viewing method enriches the experience, revealing subtle connections and deepening the emotional resonance of key moments. Witness Stefan Salvatore's journey to New Orleans, understand the motivations behind Tyler Lockwood's transformation into a hybrid, and experience the full impact of crossover events that ripple through both series.
An alternative approach, particularly for viewers seeking a more streamlined experience, involves completing the entirety of The Vampire Diaries before transitioning to The Originals. This allows for uninterrupted immersion in Elena's story before shifting focus to the Mikaelson family's intricate power struggles in New Orleans. While sacrificing the immediate impact of concurrent timelines, this method offers a more conventional viewing pattern.
However, the true magic lies in the interwoven details. Note specific episodes like The Vampire Diaries 4x20, which launches The Originals, and The Vampire Diaries 7x15, a crucial point for aligning the two shows' timelines. These pivotal episodes serve as bridges, connecting the narratives and illuminating the shared universe.
The Original family, comprised of the first vampires ever created, are a force to be reckoned with. Klaus, Elijah, Rebekah, and their complex relationships form the core of The Originals. Their struggle for power, their tangled history, and their search for redemption create a captivating narrative that expands the mythology established in The Vampire Diaries.
Beyond the core series lie further depths. The Originals continues the story for another year after The Vampire Diaries concludes its eight-season run in 2017 with the poignant episode "I Was Feeling Epic." And the legacy doesn't end there. Legacies, the second spin-off, carries the torch, focusing on a new generation of supernatural beings at the Salvatore School for the Young and Gifted. While a different tone and focus, Legacies offers glimpses of familiar faces and continues to explore the rich history of the Vampire Diaries universe.
From the intricate history dating back to 750 B.C. to the ongoing stories of Hope Mikaelson and her peers, the Vampire Diaries universe offers a treasure trove of supernatural storytelling. Whether you meticulously follow the intertwined timelines or choose a more linear path, the key is to embrace the interconnectedness of these narratives, appreciating the rich tapestry of characters, events, and mythology woven throughout the franchise.
The Vampire Diaries Universe, developed for television by Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec, is an American media franchise based on L. J. Smith's book series. The franchise launched in 2009 and expanded with spin-offs, offering a complex and interconnected world of supernatural beings. The series, airing on The CW, captivated audiences with intricate plots, character development, and a rich mythology.
