As vampire fiction continues to gain popularity, many viewers have been swept up by shows like The Vampire Diaries and its spinoff, The Originals. While both shows have long since come to an end, their absence doesn’t have to leave a void in your life: Netflix and Hulu are filled with TV shows and movies that cater to fans of this classic genre. Here are some recommendations for what to watch if you’re into The Vampire Diaries and The Originals.
1. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Hulu)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer enjoyed a cult following in the late ’90s and early 2000s, and it’s still one of the most iconic vampire shows of all time. This Joss Whedon classic follows the titular Buffy as she navigates high school, boys, and saving the world from the undead. With strong writing, clever humor, and groundbreaking character development, Buffy is a must-watch for any vampire fan.
2. The Originals (Netflix)
If you’re mourning the loss of The Originals, you’ll be pleased to know that all five seasons are available on Netflix. This spinoff of The Vampire Diaries centers around the original, first-vampire family, the Mikaelsons, and their struggles to reclaim their power in New Orleans. With strong performances by Joseph Morgan and Claire Holt, The Originals is a must-watch for anyone who loved The Vampire Diaries.
3. Shadowhunters (Hulu)
While not strictly a vampire show, Shadowhunters incorporates vampires (and other supernatural creatures) into its sprawling fantasy world. Based on the best-selling novels by Cassandra Clare, Shadowhunters follows teenager Clary Fray as she discovers she’s part of a secret race of demon-hunting warriors. Along the way, she falls in love with a vampire and learns to navigate the complex politics of the supernatural underworld.
4. The Vampire Diaries (Netflix)
Of course, no list of vampire shows would be complete without the original: The Vampire Diaries. This iconic teen drama ran for eight seasons and followed Elena Gilbert as she falls in love with two vampire brothers, Stefan and Damon Salvatore. With a sprawling mythology, complex characters, and plenty of steamy romance, The Vampire Diaries is a classic that fans will never forget.
5. True Blood (HBO Max)
This dark and gritty drama takes place in a world where humans and vampires coexist (albeit not always peacefully). The show follows telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse as she falls in love with a vampire named Bill Compton and becomes immersed in the world of supernatural politics. With graphic violence, intense drama, and plenty of steamy sex scenes, True Blood is not for the faint of heart.
FAQs
Q: What are some other vampire shows and movies I might enjoy?
A: If you’re looking for more vampire content, check out shows like The Strain, Being Human, and The Originals’ spinoff Legacies. Movies like Interview with a Vampire, Let the Right One In, and Underworld are also great options.
Q: Are there any vampire shows that are appropriate for kids?
A: If you have younger viewers in your household, shows like My Babysitter’s a Vampire and Disney’s Wizards of Waverly Place feature more family-friendly takes on the vampire genre.
Q: Do I need to watch The Vampire Diaries before I watch The Originals?
A: While it’s not strictly necessary, watching The Vampire Diaries will give you a better understanding of the characters, mythology, and backstory of The Originals. Plus, you’ll get to see some familiar faces in crossover episodes.
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