Seizoen
Aflevering
Speler-server
Originalen

Originalen

20139
DramaMysterieSci-Fi & Fantasy
Uitgebracht
03 okt 2013
Land
Verenigde Staten
Producties
My So-Called CompanyAlloy EntertainmentCBS StudiosWarner Bros. Television
Spin‑off van The Vampire Diaries die de Mikaelsons volgt, een familie van duizendjarige, machtshongerige vampiers die hun stad, New Orleans, willen heroveren en iedereen die hen heeft benadeeld, willen overheersen.

About

Quick guide

The Originals follows the Mikaelson family as they return to New Orleans to reclaim their city and assert dominance over those who wronged them.

The Originals is a dark, supernatural drama that expands on the world of *The Vampire Diaries*. The series centers on the Mikaelson family—vampire siblings Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah—who return to their New Orleans homeland after centuries of exile. With the help of their protégé Marcel, they navigate a city of vampires, witches, werewolves, and humans, all while dealing with family betrayals and power struggles. The show balances family drama with intense action, political intrigue, and occasional humor, making it a complex, character‑driven narrative that explores the limits of loyalty and ambition. Viewers can expect a mix of mythology, romance, and mystery as the family’s legacy is tested by past sins and present threats.

What to know

  • The series runs for 5 seasons and 92 episodes.
  • Each episode is approximately 45 minutes long.
  • The show premiered on October 3, 2013 and concluded on August 1, 2018.
  • It airs on The CW and is available for streaming on CW’s platform.
  • The Mikaelson siblings are the primary protagonists; Marcel is a key ally.
  • New Orleans is the central setting, featuring vampires, witches, and werewolves.
  • The series is known for its dark tone, graphic violence, and strong language.
  • It is a spin‑off of *The Vampire Diaries*, sharing characters and lore.

Watch if

If you enjoy complex family dynamics, supernatural intrigue, and intense action, *The Originals* will keep you engaged with its rich world and morally ambiguous characters.

Skip if

If graphic violence, strong language, and prolonged supernatural conflict feel overwhelming, you may find this series too intense and difficult to follow.

dark tonefantasy violencehorror elementsintense actionsome gorepsychological elementssuspensefullanguage strongpolitical themes
The Original Family
The Mikaelson siblings—Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah—are immortal vampires whose bond is both a source of strength and conflict. Their history spans centuries, and their return to New Orleans reignites old loyalties and deep-seated grudges that shape the series’ narrative.
New Orleans Setting
Set in the city’s historic French Quarter, New Orleans serves as a character itself, with its streets echoing centuries of supernatural activity. The setting grounds the show in a tangible, culturally rich backdrop that amplifies the drama.
Supernatural Factions
Vampires, witches, werewolves, and humans coexist in a fragile balance. Conflicts arise over control of resources, territory, and political influence, leading to shifting alliances and betrayals throughout the series.
Klaus’s Ambition
The original vampire‑werewolf hybrid returns with a plan to reclaim his city and the power he once held. Klaus’s charisma and ruthlessness create tension between family loyalty and personal ambition.
Marcel’s Rule
Marcel, Klaus’s former protégé, now commands a powerful vampire clan in New Orleans. His rule introduces a new layer of political intrigue and complicates the family’s efforts to regain control.
Graphic Violence
The show features realistic, often brutal combat scenes, blood, and occasional gore. These elements heighten the stakes but can be intense for some viewers.
Tone and Themes
A dark, suspenseful tone underscores themes of family, loyalty, and the cost of power. Psychological elements and moral ambiguity challenge the characters’ motives and decisions.

FAQ

41 Q&A
How are Mikaelson siblings related to each other?
The Mikaelson siblings are brothers and sisters, all children of Mikael and Esther Mikaelson. They are some of the oldest vampires.
What is the significance of the Mikaelson family motto 'Always and Forever'?
'Always and Forever' is the Mikaelson family's promise to always stick together and protect each other, no matter what.
What is the Strix, and what are their goals?
The Strix are a secret society of ancient vampires who seek power and influence. They often have their own agendas that conflict with the Mikaelsons.
What are the motivations of Dahlia, Klaus's aunt?
Dahlia is Klaus's aunt who seeks to control her sister Esther's bloodline, including Klaus's daughter Hope, for her own power.
What event caused Klaus to become a hybrid?
Klaus became a hybrid when his werewolf gene was activated by the moon. This happened after he broke his curse.
How does Klaus's werewolf gene affect his hybrid nature?
Klaus's werewolf gene allows him to transform into a wolf. As a hybrid, he has the strengths of both vampires and werewolves, but this was initially suppressed by a curse.
Who is Mikael Mikaelson, and what is his relationship with Klaus?
Mikael Mikaelson is the father of the Mikaelson siblings and a powerful vampire hunter. He has a deeply antagonistic and abusive relationship with his son Klaus.
Why did the Mikaelson siblings return to New Orleans?
The Mikaelson siblings returned to New Orleans because Klaus wanted to reclaim his ancestral home and protect his unborn child.
What is Rebekah Mikaelson's biggest regret?
Rebekah Mikaelson's biggest regret is often tied to her desire for a normal life and family, which she felt she could never achieve due to her vampirism and family circumstances.
Who are the main antagonists in Season 1 of The Originals?
The main antagonists in Season 1 of The Originals include Marcel Gerard and the witches of the French Quarter coven, who are vying for control of New Orleans.
What is the prophecy concerning the Mikaelson family?
There are several prophecies, but a key one involves the Mikaelson siblings eventually turning on each other and facing destruction.
How does Freya Mikaelson's magic work?
Freya Mikaelson, being an incredibly powerful witch, uses a variety of spells, often drawing on her life force and ancient knowledge. She can perform complex rituals and enchantments.
How do the witches of New Orleans practice magic?
The witches of New Orleans practice magic by drawing power from the ancestral spirits of the city and by performing rituals. Their power is tied to the city itself.
What are the powers of the Original vampires?
Original vampires are incredibly strong, fast, and immortal. They can compel others, heal quickly, and possess enhanced senses. They are difficult to kill, requiring a white oak stake.
What role does Hayley Marshall play in the Mikaelson family drama?
Hayley Marshall is the mother of Klaus's daughter, Hope. She becomes a key figure in the family's life, often caught between the Mikaelsons and other supernatural factions.
What is the ancestral magic of New Orleans?
Ancestral magic in New Orleans is a powerful form of magic derived from the spirits of ancestors who reside in the city. It is a key source of power for the local witches.
What are the different types of supernatural beings in The Originals?
The Originals features vampires, werewolves, witches, hybrids (like Klaus), humans, and other ancient magical beings.
What is the relationship between Klaus and Camille O'Connell?
Klaus and Camille O'Connell have a complex relationship that evolves from a therapist-patient dynamic to a deep, albeit complicated, romantic connection.
Who is the mother of Hope Mikaelson?
The mother of Hope Mikaelson is Hayley Marshall.
What is Klaus Mikaelson's true parentage?
Klaus Mikaelson is the son of Mikael and Esther Mikaelson. However, his werewolf nature comes from his mother's side, implying his biological father was a werewolf.
What is the significance of the white oak stake?
The white oak stake is one of the few things that can permanently kill an Original vampire, including Mikael and the Mikaelson siblings themselves.
How did Elijah Mikaelson become a vampire?
Elijah Mikaelson became a vampire along with his siblings when his mother, Esther, turned them into vampires to protect them from a plague.
Who is Marcel Gerard's biological father?
Marcel Gerard's biological father is revealed to be a vampire named Uriah.
Who is The Hollow, and what is her connection to Hope?
The Hollow was an ancient and powerful witch who sought to unite witchcraft. She had a spiritual connection to Hope, with her spirit eventually possessing Hope.
How does Marcel Gerard wield power in New Orleans?
Marcel Gerard wields power in New Orleans through his control over the city's vampires and his alliance with certain witch factions. He established himself as the king of the supernatural community.
What are the main plot points of Season 2 of The Originals?
Season 2 focuses on Klaus trying to protect his family from Dahlia, a powerful witch who cursed Rebekah and wants to take Hope. The Mikaelsons also deal with the return of Mikael and Esther, Klaus's parents, who want to kill him. Freya, their long-lost sister, joins them but has her own agenda. The season ends with Dahlia's defeat and Freya becoming part of the family.
Who is Lucien Castle, and what are his origins?
Lucien Castle is one of the first vampires created by Mikael Mikaelson, a former lover of Freya and a cunning antagonist. He was turned into a vampire by Mikael using Klaus's blood, making him a powerful hybrid-like figure. Lucien seeks to exploit his unique nature and Klaus's power to achieve his own goals.
Who are the Harvest Girls, and what is their purpose?
The Harvest Girls are a group of four young witches who are part of a ritual in New Orleans. Their purpose is to be sacrificed to bring back the spirits of powerful witch ancestors. This ritual is central to the power of the witches in the city, particularly for the Coven.
What real-life New Orleans locations were used in filming The Originals?
The Originals was primarily filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, but it was set in New Orleans. Some scenes and inspiration may have been drawn from the city's unique atmosphere and architecture, but specific real-life locations in New Orleans were not extensively used for filming.
What is the significance of the Bayou in the series?
The Bayou is a significant location in The Originals because it is home to the werewolf pack, including Hayley Marshall. It represents the wild and untamed aspects of the supernatural world and is a place where the werewolves have traditionally lived and maintained their community.
What is the fate of Elijah Mikaelson in the series finale?
In the series finale, Elijah chooses to die alongside Klaus to save Hope and end the Mikaelson family's suffering. He and Klaus embrace as they are consumed by the Hollow's dark magic, finding peace together.
What are the key events that lead to the end of Season 3?
Season 3 culminates in a major prophecy that foretells the death of the Mikaelson siblings. Klaus is forced to kill Lucien, who has become an immortal monster. Aurora de Martel also plays a role in the escalating conflict. Ultimately, Klaus is forced to make a sacrifice to save his family and break the curse.
How does the introduction of Hope Mikaelson change the family dynamics?
Hope's birth as a tribrid (witch, vampire, werewolf) makes her the most powerful being alive and the target of many enemies. Her existence forces Klaus to confront his violent past and fight for a future where his daughter can be safe. It also brings the Mikaelson family closer as they unite to protect her.
How does Klaus Mikaelson die?
Klaus dies in the series finale. To save his daughter Hope from the Hollow, Klaus chooses to sacrifice himself. He is killed by Marcel Gerard, but in doing so, he also takes Elijah with him as they embrace and are consumed by dark magic.
What is the curse of the Mikaelson family?
The Mikaelson family is cursed by Mikael, Klaus's father. The curse makes them unable to kill each other, as they are bound by an unbreakable magical connection. This bond is both a protection and a source of conflict within the family.
Where was The Originals primarily filmed?
The Originals was primarily filmed in Atlanta, Georgia. While the series is set in New Orleans, the production moved to Atlanta for most of its filming locations.
What are the consequences of being a hybrid?
Being a hybrid, like Klaus, means possessing the strengths of both a vampire and a werewolf. However, it also means being cursed and hunted, as vampires fear them and werewolves see them as abominations. They are stronger and faster than either species alone, but they also carry a unique set of vulnerabilities and enemies.
What is the role of Aurora de Martel in Klaus's past?
Aurora de Martel is one of the first vampires Klaus ever turned, and she was once his lover. She is a complex and often cruel character who holds a deep and twisted affection for Klaus. Her actions throughout the series are driven by a mix of love, revenge, and manipulation stemming from their shared history.
How did Davina Claire become a powerful witch?
Davina Claire became a powerful witch through the Harvest ritual. She was chosen as one of the four girls to be sacrificed, but she survived and absorbed the power of the ancestors, making her the most powerful witch in New Orleans at that time. She later becomes the Harvest Queen.
What is the ultimate message of The Originals series finale?
The ultimate message of The Originals series finale is about family, sacrifice, and the possibility of redemption. It shows that even the most monstrous can find peace and make amends through love and sacrifice, particularly for the ones they care about. It emphasizes that family, in all its flawed forms, is worth fighting for.
How did Tristan de Martel become a vampire?
Tristan de Martel was turned into a vampire by Aurora de Martel, his sister. She turned him to protect him and to keep him by her side forever. He then became a powerful and influential vampire in his own right.

Acteurs

Joseph Morgan
Joseph Morgan
Klaus Mikaelson
Daniel Gillies
Daniel Gillies
Elijah Mikaelson
Charles Michael Davis
Charles Michael Davis
Marcel Gerard
Riley Voelkel
Riley Voelkel
Freya Mikaelson
Yusuf Gatewood
Yusuf Gatewood
Vincent Griffith
Danielle Rose Russell
Danielle Rose Russell
Hope Mikaelson
Steven Krueger
Steven Krueger
Joshua "Josh" Rosza