CW's supernatural drama boasts an excellent ensemble, which played a pivotal role in maintaining the show's compelling narrative over its eight-season run. Beyond the outstanding main cast, the supporting characters brought new life and energy into each new storyline, ensuring a fresh and captivating experience. Each season brought engaging plots that introduced compelling supporting characters who ignited new conflicts, romances, and alliances for .
While the primary focus was on the Salvatore brothers and Elena, the series' greatest storylines were augmented by the compelling journeys and pivotal roles of the supporting characters.
Meredith Fell, a recurring character during seasons 3 and 4, is a doctor at Mystic Falls Hospital and a member of the town council, as a founding family.
Sheila Bennett, also known as Grams, plays a recurring role throughout the entire series and holds the vital position of being Bonnie's grandmother. Her character is instrumental in Bonnie's personal growth, as she helps Bonnie with the practices of the Bennett witch line. Grams is characterized by her unwavering determination and wholehearted devotion to her family, which is demonstrated when she makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect Bonnie. Throughout , she serves as a steadfast mentor and guide for Bonnie, consistently offering her support and assistance during her granddaughter's most challenging moments.
Vicki Donovan is mostly featured in season 1, though she makes occasional appearances thereafter. Vicki is Matt Donovan's sister and also entangled herself in a love triangle with Jeremy Gilbert and Tyler Lockwood. Vicki is known for being unapologetically true to herself, with the strong-willed character paying little attention to what others think of her. However, she undergoes a transformation as she makes the ultimate sacrifice, where she willingly descends into Hell to save her brother Matt.
Qetsiyah, who is also known as Tessa in modern times, is one of the most powerful witches in history, coming to in season 4. In her flashbacks, she radiates loyalty and compassion, as she helps Silas in the creation of the immortality spell. However, she epitomizes the age-old saying, as she keeps Amara and Silas apart by creating the Other Side.
Sage is in season 3, providing a significant backstory that enriches Damon Salvatore's character. Their initial encounter starts in 1912, when she assumes the role of Damon's mentor, teaching him how to relish being a vampire and feed properly. Her treatment of humans, as mere food, gives her a cold demeanor, which means she bears some of the responsibility for shaping Damon's ruthless nature.
However, Sage loves fiercely, exemplified by Finn, a vampire she has loved for 900 years. She lived her vampire existence to the fullest, embracing both the positive and negative sides, striving to make the most of her time as an immortal. Sage's story comes to an end with the main cast learning that when an original vampire is struck with a White Oak Stake, as seen with Finn Mikaelson, then the rest of their vampire line dies, which propels the series forward.
Nora is a fellow member of the Heretics, who are a part of season 7. Not only is she one of the main antagonists in season 7, but her character is also distinguished by a deeply touching love story with her partner, Mary Louise. Their love story dates back to 1880 when societal norms frowned upon such unions, yet they defied the odds, standing by each other through the passage of time. season 7 highlights Nora's growing bond with Bonnie, as they collaborate to confront the huntress.
Following her release from the prison world, Nora successfully adapts to the dramatic shift in eras, transitioning from 1903 to 2013, as she displays her remarkable heart and humanity compared to other members of the Heretics.
Mason Lockwood first appears in season 2, where he assumes the role of Tyler Lockwood's uncle and estranged member of the Lockwood family. His involvement in the series resolves around the Moonstone, a pivotal element that sets in motion the storyline of . Mason's character is defined by his laid-back and charismatic demeanor, leaving a substantial impact on Tyler, whom he endeavors to shield from the werewolf curse.
Rose is first seen in season 2, making her entrance by kidnapping Elena in an attempt to barter for her and her best friend Trevor's freedom. She exudes a sentimental and loyal nature, often expressing her reluctance to take human lives despite her vampiric nature.
Anna, a recurring character until the end of season 3, is a vampire and the daughter of Pearl Zhu. Her character becomes entwined with Jeremy Gilbert as a romantic interest, and she plays a pivotal role in his education about vampires.
Lexi debuted in season 1 as the beloved best friend of Stefan Salvatore. As one of the rare vampires on the show who cherished human life, Lexi possessed a unique ability to guide Stefan back to his humanity during his darkest moments as the Ripper.
