The Vampire Diaries

If you want science fiction that respects its own premise, The Vampire Diaries is available in Australia on Amazon Prime Video and Stan, and in the US on HBO Max Amazon Channel and Peacock Premium right now. With 8 seasons behind it, the show has had time to find its rhythm and keep it. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Paul Wesley leads a cast that never lets the concept overwhelm the characters. Put it on tonight on Amazon Prime Video and see for yourself.

The Vampire Diaries is not trying to be everything to everyone, and that focus is exactly what makes it work. The Vampire Diaries treats its concept seriously enough to follow it all the way through. The story of two vampire brothers obsessed with the same girl, who bears a striking resemblance to the beautiful but ruthless vampire they knew and loved in 1864. Paul Wesley and Ian Somerhalder lead a cast that makes the ambitious moments land. 8 seasons (2009–2017) gave the story room most shows never get. What separates The Vampire Diaries from lesser genre entertainment is a willingness to let the concept cost the characters something. The consistency throughout is what elevates it — not every moment is the best, but none of them are a reason to stop watching.

For late-night viewing or a proper weekend binge, The Vampire Diaries fits the bill. Viewers who responded to Lost Girl will find a lot to like here too. 8 seasons in, there is no shortage of material once you get started. Watch for Paul Wesley in particular — the performance elevates the material. Satisfying on multiple levels.

The Vampire Diaries wrapped up in 2017, created by Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson — and 8 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.