Shows Similar To Vampire Diaries On Netflix
So, you've binged The Vampire Diaries. All of it. You know, the Elena-Stefan-Damon love triangle, the endless supernatural drama, the very questionable fashion choices of the early seasons. And now? You're left with that familiar, empty feeling. That "what do I watch next?!" void. Don't worry, my fellow TV enthusiasts, I've been there. It’s like finishing your favorite comfort food and realizing you’re still a little peckish. But fear not! Netflix, bless its streaming heart, has a whole buffet of shows that might just hit that sweet spot.
We're talking about that perfect blend of romance, mystery, and a healthy dose of the supernatural. The kind of shows where you can get seriously invested in characters' lives, whether they're battling ancient vampires or just trying to navigate high school with a secret power. Ready to dive in? Let's explore some goodies!
When You're Craving More Forbidden Love and Ancient Feuds
Okay, let's be honest. A huge part of The Vampire Diaries' appeal is the whole "brooding, immortal bad boy who's secretly a softie" trope. And the "good guy vampire with a heart of gold." It’s iconic. If you're still dreaming of smoldering glances and eternal devotion (or eternal torment), then you absolutely have to check out:
The Originals
This one's practically a given, right? It’s the spin-off, so it’s in the same universe, just with a different set of incredibly attractive, ridiculously powerful vampires. The Originals dives deep into the Mikaelson family, the original vampires themselves. Think of them as the OG of the vampire world, with centuries of grudges, family drama, and epic battles under their belts. It’s a bit more mature, a bit more political, and definitely more focused on family dynamics than The Vampire Diaries. If you loved Klaus Mikaelson, then this is your paradise. Prepare for complex characters and heart-wrenching betrayals.
It’s like getting a sequel you didn't know you desperately needed. You already know these characters, but now you get their origin story, their struggles, and their attempts to build something new. It’s gritty, it’s gorgeous, and it will leave you emotionally drained in the best way possible.
Legacies
Sticking with the TVD universe, Legacies is the next generation. It’s set at the Salvatore School for the Young and Gifted, which is exactly what it sounds like. It's a place where vampire, werewolf, and witch teenagers learn to control their powers. You'll see familiar faces from The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, but the focus is on a new cast of characters dealing with their own unique brand of supernatural chaos. It’s a little more lighthearted, a bit more like a supernatural high school drama, and has a fun, almost fairy-tale quality to its monster-of-the-week format. If you like a mix of adventure and teenage angst, this is for you.
Think of it as Harry Potter meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but with more dramatic hair flips. It’s the perfect way to stay in that supernatural bubble without the same intensity as the original series.
For Those Who Love Darker, More Mystical Worlds
Sometimes, you want more than just vampires. You want witches, demons, and a world where the veil between ours and the supernatural is thin. If you're nodding along, then let's get into some darker delights:
Shadowhunters
Okay, so this one is based on a popular book series, and it’s got a bit of everything. Shadowhunters are half-angel, half-human warriors who protect the world from demons. Our main girl, Clary Fray, discovers she's one of them and gets pulled into this hidden world of magic, demons, and, you guessed it, forbidden romance. It’s got action, intricate lore, and a diverse cast of characters. The visual effects are pretty cool, and the story builds nicely. If you enjoy a good chosen one narrative with a dash of supernatural politics, this is a solid pick.
It’s like stumbling into a secret society you never knew existed, and suddenly your life is a lot more complicated and a lot more exciting. The relationships are central, and you'll find yourself rooting for them through thick and thin.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
This isn't your grandma's Sabrina the Teenage Witch. This is a dark, gothic reimagining of the classic character. Sabrina Spellman has to balance her life as a half-human, half-witch teenager while dealing with the Dark Lord and his minions. It's full of witchcraft, demonic pacts, and serious philosophical questions about free will and destiny. The aesthetic is stunning – think dark academia meets horror. It’s creepy, it's campy, and it’s surprisingly thought-provoking. If you want something with a bit of a bite and a whole lot of style, give this a try.
It’s a show that isn’t afraid to get weird and wonderful. It’s got that unsettling charm that makes you keep watching, even when you’re hiding behind a cushion. The horror elements are balanced with genuine moments of tenderness and friendship.
When You Want Intrigue, Mystery, and a Touch of the Supernatural
Maybe the romance isn't the main draw for you, but you enjoy a good mystery with a supernatural twist. The kind of show that makes you put on your detective hat (even if the detectives are actually vampires or werewolves). These might be right up your alley:
Supernatural (though it’s leaving Netflix soon!)
Yes, I know. Supernatural is a classic, and it’s been around forever. But if, by some miracle, you haven't seen it yet and you're a Netflix subscriber, you need to know about it. Two brothers, Sam and Dean Winchester, hunt demons, ghosts, monsters, and all sorts of creepy things across America. It’s got brotherly love, epic quests, and a surprisingly deep emotional core. It’s funny, it’s scary, and it’s got a massive amount of heart. You will get attached. Trust me. Just a heads up, this gem is leaving Netflix soon, so binge it while you can!
Think of it as the ultimate road trip, but instead of tourist traps, you're stopping at haunted houses and wrestling with ancient evils. The chemistry between the brothers is what makes it, and you'll find yourself caring about their adventures as much as they do.
The Order
This is a really fun, underrated gem on Netflix. A college student, Jack Morton, stumbles upon a secret society called the Hermetic Order of the Blue Rose, which practices magic. But it’s not just magic; there are also werewolves. So you have a clandestine magical society and a werewolf pack at odds. It’s got a great sense of humor, surprising twists, and a really engaging plot. If you like your supernatural with a side of college drama and secret societies, this is a great choice.
It’s got that feeling of uncovering a hidden world, a bit like Gossip Girl but with more spells and fangs. The show is smart, it’s witty, and it doesn't take itself too seriously, which is sometimes exactly what you need. Plus, werewolves are always a good time.
A Little Bit Different, But Still Totally Addictive
Sometimes, you just want a show that has that vibe. That intoxicating mix of drama, passion, and a touch of the otherworldly, even if it’s not explicitly vampires and witches. These might just surprise you:
Fate: The Winx Saga
Based on the animated series, this live-action adaptation follows Bloom, a fairy who discovers her powers at a magical boarding school. It’s got friendship, magic, and a whole lot of teen drama. It's a bit more YA-focused than some of the others, with a strong emphasis on the coming-of-age aspect and the challenges of finding your place in the world. If you enjoyed the fantasy elements of The Vampire Diaries and are looking for a story about discovering your inner strength, this is a good option.
It’s like a more grown-up version of a Saturday morning cartoon, with higher stakes and more complex relationships. The visual of the fairies and their powers is really well done, making it a feast for the eyes.
So there you have it! A little something for everyone who misses the captivating, dramatic, and sometimes deliciously cheesy world of The Vampire Diaries. Which one are you going to dive into first? Happy streaming!