When The Vampire Diaries premiered, it ignited a global obsession unlike any other. Viewers were quickly drawn into the supernatural world of Mystic Falls, where ancient feuds, epic romances, and heart-wrenching betrayals enchanted audiences for nearly a decade. As the final credits rolled in 2017, the stars of this beloved series embarked on new, exciting paths. From new careers to personal milestones, their lives have continued to evolve in unexpected ways.

Where are the talented actors who brought viewers’ favorite characters to life now? Starting with a look at the on-screen bad boy who was secretly a hero.

The actor, who played the charismatic and unpredictable Damon Salvatore, has since expanded his career beyond acting. He has taken on roles as a producer and has used his platform to focus on environmental and philanthropic efforts. He starred in the Netflix series V-Wars, where he portrayed a doctor trying to save humanity from a vampire pandemic. Somerhalder also made a cameo in the film Time Framed.

Next, the journey of the other half of the famous love triangle must be explored.

Paul Wesley, who portrayed the noble and brooding Stefan Salvatore, has ventured into different facets of the entertainment industry. Following his time on the show, he has explored both directing and producing, working on episodes of Legacies and Batwoman. He joined the cast of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds as Captain Kirk in 2022 and narrated the short film Aliens.

While both the male leads of the show continue to exceed, it is the lady in between that truly broke the glass cieling. 

Known for her dual roles as the compassionate Elena Gilbert and the cunning Katherine Pierce, Nina Dobrev has continued to build a successful career in film. She starred in movies such as the horror film Flatliners and the romantic comedy Love Hard. She also took on a main role in the short-lived sitcom Fam and has a producing credit for the upcoming film Sick Girl.

Apart from Nina Dobrev, the other part of the show's girl gang has also been wreaking havoc. 

After playing the bright and spirited Caroline Forbes, Candice King has remained connected to The Vampire Diaries universe, reprising her role in the spin-off series The Originals and Legacies. She appeared in the film After We Collided and the television movie Reba McEntire's Christmas in Tune. King also launched the popular Directionally Challenged podcast.

Following into the great footsteps, Kat Graham has broken out of her character and created a genre bending phenomenon.

Kat Graham, who portrayed the powerful witch Bonnie Bennett, has balanced her acting career with her passion for music. She has released multiple albums and singles, establishing herself as a talented singer and songwriter. She continues to appear in various films, including the romantic comedy Love in the Villa and the biopic All Eyez on Me, where she portrayed Jada Pinkett.

While the gang has branched out, so has Mystic Falls' most steadfast human.

As Matt Donovan, the quintessential human character in a town full of supernatural beings, Zach Roerig played a key role. Since the show's conclusion, he has appeared in other television series and films. His credits include the series Dare Me and the film The Year of Spectacular Men. He also reprised his role in a few episodes of TVD spin-offs, The Originals and Legacies. Even if The Vampire Diaries left Netflix, the streaming giant still offers blood and fears.

7 Years After ‘The Vampire Diaries,’ the Nina Dobrev Effect Still Has Fans Spellbound

Where will the journey of these talented actors take them next? What do you think ? Let us know in the comments below.