REVIEW: A decade later, is ‘The Vampire Diaries’ still worth a bite?

by Jazz-Lyn Roberts '26

A decade after the airing of the series finale, “The Vampire Diaries” remains a show I will always rewatch. It premiered in 2009 and quickly became one of the defining programs of its time, combining supernatural drama, romance and just enough insanity to keep you emotionally committed. The drama of a love triangle between "Delena" and "Stelena" (and even other "ships" like "Klaroline") is captivating. The suspense of a crumbling supernatural world and the characters’ fight to fix it is bewitching. This show lures you in before you realize it, fueled by the desire to know what happens next. Almost 10 years later, the major question remains: Is it still worth watching today?

“The Vampire Diaries” thrives on its characters. Elena, Stefan and Damon are at the center of the plot. Their interactions, particularly the choice between the "hero" brother and the "villain" brother, kept fans engaged for years. Elena's undeniable chemistry with Damon creates a constant dilemma. Her timing in choosing between her love for Stefan and her love for Damon keeps viewers conflicted and fuels the suspense. What makes the show stand out even today is how emotionally charged it is. The program is not just about vampires; it explores grief, loyalty, identity and sacrifice. Even after years have passed, that emotional weight remains.

However, watching it now, you can clearly feel some of the early 2010s TV tropes. The drama can be over-the-top, especially with the way characters die and are frequently brought back to life. Some plotlines become repetitious or take longer than necessary. As the seasons progress, the plot grows more sophisticated (and occasionally chaotic), particularly with the constant introduction of new adversaries and otherworldly rules. Not every season is of equal quality, and long-time fans will acknowledge there are some rough patches along the road.

Despite these hurdles, the show possesses a quality that many recent series struggle to match. It is easy to fall back into the story thanks to the cast’s chemistry and the dramatic highs and lows. It’s the type of show where you promise to watch just one episode, and suddenly you’re halfway through another season.

Another reason it still works is nostalgia. For those who saw it during its first run, it recalls a distinct period in television history. The different tropes, plot twists and character developments are alluring and always recapture the audience's attention. Even new viewers will find something inviting in its shameless commitment to drama and romance. It does not strive to be subtle, and that is part of its appeal. For first-time viewers, the show offers a fascinating mix of the supernatural world and the normal one.

So, is “The Vampire Diaries” still worth viewing almost a decade later? If you appreciate character-driven storylines, deep relationships and a combination of supernatural and emotional storytelling, this is for you. It may not be perfect, but its connection with its audience elevates it above the typical teen drama. It’s a show that stays with you, and that alone makes it worth the watch.

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