The cast and creator of "The Vampire Diaries" attended the San Diego Comic-Con and talked about the recent exit of their former lead star Nina Dobrev. During the panel discussion, series creator Julie Plec revealed that the departure of Dobrev from the series is bittersweet, especially since she played the role of Elena Gilbert for six years.
Still, despite her exit, co-star Ian Somerhalder, who plays the role of Damon Salvatore, said that the actress' exit could only mean the evolution of the story. "It's just an evolution of the story. Everything changes. Stories come. Stories go."
Meanwhile, Paul Wesley, who plays the role of Stefan Salvatore, seconded Somerhalder's statement about Dobrev's departure from "The Vampire Dairies." According to him, a shift in the dynamics of the series is a must and it can finally be achieved now that Elena is no longer around.
"So I think it created a new sort of world in a way. So I think it's a fresh take on a show that's been on for over half a decade," he said.
In other news, the cast members also hinted on the possibility of Dobrev returning to the CW series sometime in the future, according to Variety. Cast member Candice Accola, who plays the role of Caroline, reminded attendees that Elena is not dead.
Somerhalder added that she's just taking a long nap. This has led fans to speculate that indeed, Dobrev may return to the series anytime she pleases, TV Line reported.
"I've known Nina was leaving for a long time. I thought it was a really clever way to kind of keep Elena there and keep her presence there and keep the door open for a lot of ways to bring her back," Kat Graham, the actress who plays Bonnie, added.
"The Vampire Diaries" Season 7 will premiere on the CW this coming October. According to Plec, the series will most likely be renewed for Season 8.
