Why Is Ian Somerhalder Trending?
Ian Somerhalder, best known for his role as Damon Salvatore in The Vampire Diaries, is trending online with more than 500+ searches currently circulating. The main reason behind this surge in interest is the 15th anniversary of The Vampire Diaries, which originally premiered in 2009. Fans of the series and entertainment insiders alike are revisiting the show's legacy, casting choices, and behind-the-scenes stories, sparking renewed attention on Somerhalder and his career.
Additionally, new interviews with the show’s co-creator Julie Plec, as well as behind-the-scenes casting stories, are adding fuel to the fire, especially in light of how iconic Somerhalder’s portrayal of Damon has become. There’s even speculation about what the The Vampire Diaries universe could look like today if casting decisions had gone in a different direction.
The Ian Somerhalder Effect on The Vampire Diaries
Ian Somerhalder’s portrayal of Damon Salvatore became a defining characteristic of The Vampire Diaries. His character, a brooding and morally complex vampire, complemented the show’s supernatural drama and romantic tension. Somerhalder’s performance was pivotal in making the show a cultural phenomenon during its eight-season run. His chemistry with co-stars Nina Dobrev (Elena Gilbert) and Paul Wesley (Stefan Salvatore) drove the show’s success and developed a passionate fan base that lingers to this day.
However, recent revelations surrounding the casting process have intrigued fans even more. According to a new report, Somerhalder almost didn’t land the role of Damon. In fact, Marvel Cinematic Universe star Chris Hemsworth was initially considered for the part. In a recent article on IMDb, it was revealed that Hemsworth auditioned for the role of Damon but "tanked" his audition, which led to Somerhalder ultimately being cast. The report also suggests that the showrunners were initially unsure about Somerhalder but soon realized that his performance was a perfect fit for the character.
This piece of news has reignited fan discussions about what The Vampire Diaries might have been like with someone else in the role of Damon. Given Hemsworth’s rise to global stardom as Thor in the MCU, it’s an intriguing "what if" scenario for fans of both franchises.
15th Anniversary of The Vampire Diaries: A Look Back
The 15th anniversary of The Vampire Diaries has also brought about introspective interviews and reflections from key figures behind the show. Julie Plec, co-creator of the series, recently spoke with The Hollywood Reporter about the enduring legacy of the show and how casting decisions played a crucial role in its success. Plec highlighted that the show’s casting trio—Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder, and Paul Wesley—had a unique chemistry that elevated The Vampire Diaries into a "timeless" supernatural franchise.
In the interview, Plec also teased fans about potential future stories within the The Vampire Diaries universe. While she didn’t offer specific details, she hinted that the franchise still holds a special place in the hearts of both fans and creators, leaving the door open for possible spin-offs or reboots.
The anniversary has stirred nostalgia among fans, many of whom have taken to social media to share their favorite moments from the show and to celebrate the cast. Somerhalder’s portrayal of Damon remains one of the most frequently highlighted aspects, with fans praising his ability to bring complexity and depth to the character.
Julie Plec’s New Projects and Reflecting on TVD
Julie Plec’s reflections on the 15-year legacy of The Vampire Diaries aren’t just about the past. In a recent interview with Deadline, she discussed her new upcoming series We Were Liars, a YA mystery project based on the novel of the same name. While this new series marks a departure from the supernatural themes of The Vampire Diaries, Plec’s expertise in crafting complex, character-driven stories is expected to be a highlight.
Fans of The Vampire Diaries are eagerly awaiting Plec’s next moves, and it’s likely that her future projects will continue to draw interest from the fanbase she built with TVD. Plec’s continued success in television has only amplified the ongoing relevance of The Vampire Diaries, with Somerhalder remaining at the forefront of fan conversations.
Conclusion
Ian Somerhalder’s name is trending again, not only because of his iconic role in The Vampire Diaries, but also due to the fascinating "what could have been" casting stories and the show’s enduring legacy. As fans celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary and look back on its impact, Somerhalder’s portrayal of Damon Salvatore remains a defining element of its success. While new projects like Julie Plec’s We Were Liars are on the horizon, the enduring appeal of The Vampire Diaries ensures that Somerhalder will remain a key figure in pop culture discussions for years to come.
Sources
- “Everyone knows he tanked”: In a Different World, Ian Somerhalder Was Never Damon in The Vampire Diaries if The Showrunners Had Gone With This Marvel Star
- 15 Years Later, ‘The Vampire Diaries’ Co-Creator Talks Casting Secrets, TV Romances and Building a “Timeless” Supernatural Franchise
- Julie Plec Reflects On 15 Years Of ‘The Vampire Diaries’ & Teases Upcoming YA Mystery Series ‘We Were Liars’