The world of vampires, werewolves, witches, and hybrids can be incredibly captivating, and few shows have mastered the supernatural drama quite like “The Vampire Diaries” and its spin-off, “The Originals.” However, navigating the intertwined storylines and character appearances between these two series can be a daunting task. Fear not, because this comprehensive guide will walk you through the optimal viewing order to ensure you experience the full scope of this thrilling universe.
Understanding the Timeline and Crossovers
To truly appreciate the intricate plotlines, understanding how “The Vampire Diaries” and “The Originals” timelines overlap is crucial. “The Originals” begins as a backdoor pilot within “The Vampire Diaries” season 4. From there, the series run concurrently for several seasons before “The Vampire Diaries” concludes, followed by “The Originals.” This parallel storytelling means that certain events in one show directly influence the other. Watching in the correct order allows you to witness these cause-and-effect relationships and character developments organically.
The key is to view the shows in chronological order based on the in-universe timeline, rather than simply watching entire seasons of one show before moving onto the next. This involves alternating episodes between the two series at specific points to capture all the crossover elements and character arcs as they unfold.
The Recommended Viewing Order: A Detailed Breakdown
This viewing order ensures you experience the story as it was intended, with all the emotional impact and interwoven narratives intact.
Seasons 1-4 of The Vampire Diaries
Begin with “The Vampire Diaries” seasons 1 through 4. These seasons lay the foundation for the entire universe, introducing you to Elena Gilbert, the Salvatore brothers (Stefan and Damon), Mystic Falls, and the various supernatural factions that call it home. You will meet key characters like Bonnie Bennett, Caroline Forbes, and Jeremy Gilbert. These seasons establish the core relationships and conflicts that drive the entire saga. Do not skip any episodes in these seasons. They are all essential for understanding the complex web of relationships and the history of the characters.
The Originals Season 1, Episodes 1-20
After completing “The Vampire Diaries” Season 4, switch over to “The Originals” Season 1. However, only watch Episodes 1 through 20. This is crucial. These episodes establish the Mikaelson family’s return to New Orleans and their power struggle with Marcel Gerard. Pay close attention to the introduction of Hope Mikaelson, a key figure in the “Legacies” spin-off.
The Vampire Diaries Season 5, Episodes 1-11
Return to “The Vampire Diaries” and watch Season 5, Episodes 1 through 11. This segment of the season explores the aftermath of Silas’s release and the continuing supernatural happenings in Mystic Falls.
The Originals Season 1, Episodes 21-22
Now, go back to “The Originals” Season 1 and finish the final two episodes, 21 and 22. These episodes conclude the first season’s primary storyline and set the stage for future conflicts.
The Vampire Diaries Season 5, Episodes 12-22
Complete “The Vampire Diaries” Season 5 by watching Episodes 12 through 22. This concludes the storyline introduced at the beginning of the season and sets up the events for Season 6.
The Vampire Diaries Season 6 and The Originals Season 2 (Intertwined)
This is where the viewing order becomes slightly more complex, but also where it becomes incredibly rewarding. Watch these seasons almost entirely in release order.
| The Vampire Diaries (TVD) Episode | The Originals (TO) Episode |
|---|---|
| TVD 6×01 | TO 2×01 |
| TVD 6×02 | TO 2×02 |
| TVD 6×03 | TO 2×03 |
| TVD 6×04 | TO 2×04 |
| TVD 6×05 | TO 2×05 |
| TVD 6×06 | TO 2×06 |
| TVD 6×07 | TO 2×07 |
| TVD 6×08 | TO 2×08 |
| TVD 6×09 | TO 2×09 |
| TVD 6×10 | TO 2×10 |
| TVD 6×11 | TO 2×11 |
| TVD 6×12 | TO 2×12 |
| TVD 6×13 | TO 2×13 |
| TVD 6×14 | TO 2×14 |
| TVD 6×15 | TO 2×15 |
| TVD 6×16 | TO 2×16 |
| TVD 6×17 | TO 2×17 |
| TVD 6×18 | TO 2×18 |
| TVD 6×19 | TO 2×19 |
| TVD 6×20 | TO 2×20 |
| TVD 6×21 | TO 2×21 |
| TVD 6×22 | TO 2×22 |
This alternating pattern allows you to experience the parallel events and character arcs of both shows in a cohesive manner. Season 6 of “The Vampire Diaries” deals with the aftermath of Damon and Bonnie’s disappearance, while Season 2 of “The Originals” delves deeper into the Mikaelson family’s past and their ongoing struggles in New Orleans.
The Vampire Diaries Season 7 and The Originals Season 3 (Intertwined)
Continue with the same alternating pattern for “The Vampire Diaries” Season 7 and “The Originals” Season 3.
| The Vampire Diaries (TVD) Episode | The Originals (TO) Episode |
|---|---|
| TVD 7×01 | TO 3×01 |
| TVD 7×02 | TO 3×02 |
| TVD 7×03 | TO 3×03 |
| TVD 7×04 | TO 3×04 |
| TVD 7×05 | TO 3×05 |
| TVD 7×06 | TO 3×06 |
| TVD 7×07 | TO 3×07 |
| TVD 7×08 | TO 3×08 |
| TVD 7×09 | TO 3×09 |
| TVD 7×10 | TO 3×10 |
| TVD 7×11 | TO 3×11 |
| TVD 7×12 | TO 3×12 |
| TVD 7×13 | TO 3×13 |
| TVD 7×14 | TO 3×14 |
| TVD 7×15 | TO 3×15 |
| TVD 7×16 | TO 3×16 |
| TVD 7×17 | TO 3×17 |
| TVD 7×18 | TO 3×18 |
| TVD 7×19 | TO 3×19 |
| TVD 7×20 | TO 3×20 |
| TVD 7×21 | TO 3×21 |
| TVD 7×22 | TO 3×22 |
Season 7 of “The Vampire Diaries” introduces the Armory and the hunt for immortal sirens, while Season 3 of “The Originals” sees the arrival of the Strix and escalating conflicts among the vampires of New Orleans.
The Vampire Diaries Season 8
“The Vampire Diaries” Season 8 is the final season of the show. Watch all episodes of this season without interruption. The season focuses on the return of Katherine Pierce and the ultimate fate of Mystic Falls and its inhabitants.
The Originals Season 4 and 5
Finally, watch “The Originals” Seasons 4 and 5. These seasons conclude the Mikaelson family’s saga and explore Hope’s growth and the escalating threats against them. These final seasons are emotionally charged and provide closure to many long-running storylines.
Why Watch in This Order? The Benefits
Following this chronological order provides several key benefits:
- Crossover Events: This order ensures you experience crossover events between the shows in the correct context. Characters sometimes appear in both shows during the same timeframe, and seeing these appearances in the intended order enhances the viewing experience.
- Character Development: Character arcs are intertwined between the two shows. Watching in the correct order allows you to see characters evolve naturally as their stories progress across both series.
- Plot Cohesion: The storylines of “The Vampire Diaries” and “The Originals” are interconnected. This order allows you to understand how events in one show impact the other, creating a more cohesive and immersive viewing experience.
- Emotional Impact: Experiencing the shows in chronological order maximizes the emotional impact of key moments. Witnessing character deaths, relationship developments, and major plot twists in the intended sequence makes the story more engaging and meaningful.
Where to Watch
“The Vampire Diaries” and “The Originals” are available on various streaming platforms. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video are common platforms where you can find these shows. Check your local streaming service availability to confirm which platforms offer the series in your region. You can also purchase episodes or seasons through digital retailers like iTunes and Google Play.
A Few Tips for Binge-Watching
- Take Breaks: Binge-watching can be intense. Remember to take breaks to stretch, eat, and rest your eyes.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep water nearby to stay hydrated during your viewing sessions.
- Avoid Spoilers: Be careful when browsing the internet to avoid spoilers. Use spoiler blockers if necessary.
- Engage with the Community: Discuss your thoughts and reactions with other fans online. Sharing your experiences can enhance your enjoyment of the shows.
Watching “The Vampire Diaries” and “The Originals” in the correct order is the best way to experience the full depth and complexity of this beloved supernatural universe. By following this guide, you’ll be able to appreciate the intricate storylines, character development, and emotional resonance of these two iconic series. Enjoy your binge-watching journey!
Why is it important to watch The Vampire Diaries and The Originals in the correct order?
Watching The Vampire Diaries and The Originals in chronological order enhances the viewing experience by providing a seamless narrative flow. Characters and storylines often cross over between the two shows, and understanding the events in one series provides crucial context for the other. Avoiding chronological order can lead to confusion, missed plot points, and spoilers, diminishing the overall impact of the storylines and character development.
Furthermore, certain character arcs and relationships evolve across both shows. Watching in the recommended order allows you to witness these changes naturally, deepening your connection with the characters and increasing your appreciation for the complex narrative web woven throughout both series. It ensures you experience the emotional weight and impact of pivotal moments as intended by the creators, avoiding jarring shifts in character dynamics or confusing plot inconsistencies.
What is the most commonly recommended viewing order for The Vampire Diaries and The Originals?
The most common viewing order alternates between episodes of The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, typically following the broadcast release dates. This involves watching a few episodes of The Vampire Diaries and then switching to The Originals for a few episodes, continuing this pattern throughout their respective seasons. This approach allows viewers to experience the storylines as they originally unfolded, capturing the intended pacing and cross-referencing moments.
This alternating method ensures that significant events in one show are fresh in your mind as you watch the corresponding events in the other. It minimizes the risk of encountering spoilers prematurely and helps you understand the motivations and actions of characters who appear in both series. While there are other viewing orders, this method provides the most natural and comprehensive viewing experience.
Where can I find a detailed episode list that shows the chronological viewing order?
Several websites and online communities dedicated to The Vampire Diaries and The Originals provide detailed episode lists specifying the exact chronological order for viewing. Sites like Reddit, IMDb, and dedicated fan wikis often have user-created guides and spreadsheets outlining the recommended viewing sequence. These lists typically break down each season of both shows into individual episodes and organize them based on their original air dates or the in-universe timeline.
When searching for these guides, make sure to check the date and credibility of the source, as some lists may be outdated or inaccurate. Look for lists that are frequently updated and maintained by active members of the fandom. Comparing multiple lists can also help you identify any discrepancies and choose the order that best suits your preferences, ensuring you have the most accurate and up-to-date viewing guide.
Are there any “filler” episodes in either series that I can skip without missing important plot points?
While The Vampire Diaries and The Originals both have standalone or “filler” episodes, skipping them entirely is generally not recommended, as even these episodes often contribute to character development or provide subtle hints about future storylines. Character relationships and motivations are gradually revealed, and minor details from seemingly unimportant episodes can become relevant later in the series.
However, if you are pressed for time, you can research episode summaries and reviews to identify episodes that primarily focus on character interactions or monster-of-the-week plots without significantly advancing the main storyline. But be cautious, as even these episodes can contain valuable information or foreshadowing that enriches the overall viewing experience. It’s always better to err on the side of watching more rather than skipping episodes and potentially missing key details.
What happens if I watch The Originals before The Vampire Diaries?
Watching The Originals before The Vampire Diaries is generally not recommended because The Vampire Diaries introduces the Mikaelson family and establishes their backstories. Jumping straight into The Originals without this context would mean missing crucial information about their origins, motivations, and complex relationships. You’d encounter characters like Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah without understanding their prior experiences in Mystic Falls, diminishing the emotional impact of their actions in New Orleans.
Furthermore, The Originals often references events and characters from The Vampire Diaries, assuming the viewer has prior knowledge of those elements. Watching The Originals first would lead to confusion and spoilers, preventing you from fully appreciating the nuances of the characters’ arcs and the intricate connections between the two shows. You’d essentially be starting a story in the middle, losing out on the foundational narrative that makes The Originals so compelling.
Does Legacies need to be watched after The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, and in what order?
Yes, Legacies should be watched after completing both The Vampire Diaries and The Originals. Legacies is a spin-off of both series and builds upon the storylines and characters established in its predecessors. It features Hope Mikaelson, the daughter of Klaus Mikaelson, as the central protagonist, and many characters from both The Vampire Diaries and The Originals make appearances or are frequently referenced.
Watching Legacies without having seen The Vampire Diaries and The Originals would result in a significant loss of context and understanding. You would miss the intricate backstories of the characters, the historical significance of certain events, and the emotional weight of Hope’s lineage. While Legacies is designed to be accessible to new viewers, its full impact and enjoyment are significantly enhanced by having a thorough understanding of the prior series.
Are there any online communities or forums where I can discuss the show while watching?
Yes, numerous online communities and forums are dedicated to discussing The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, and Legacies. Reddit, specifically subreddits like r/TheVampireDiaries, r/TheOriginals, and r/LegaciesTV, are popular platforms for fans to share their thoughts, theories, and reactions to episodes. These communities often have active discussion threads, episode reviews, and fan-created content.
Additionally, websites like TV Tropes and fan fiction archives like Archive of Our Own (AO3) can provide deeper insights into the show’s themes, characters, and storylines. Interacting with these communities can enhance your viewing experience by providing different perspectives, uncovering hidden details, and fostering a sense of camaraderie with other fans. Just be mindful of spoilers and avoid reading discussions about episodes you haven’t yet watched.