Should I Watch The Originals Or Vampire Diaries First

So, you're thinking about diving headfirst into the world of Mystic Falls and New Orleans? Excellent choice! But a crucial question arises: The Vampire Diaries (TVD) or The Originals (TO) first? Prepare for a debate that's raged on for years.

The "Logical" Approach: TVD Then TO

Most people will scream, "TVD first, obviously!" It makes chronological sense. We meet the Mikaelsons in TVD. You see their backstory unfold bit by bit.

It's like building a house. TVD lays the foundation. TO is the fancy penthouse suite built on top. Watching TVD first gives you all the relationship history, the betrayals, and the reasons why everyone is so angsty.

You'll understand why Klaus is... well, Klaus. You'll get Elijah's honor. You'll even sympathize a little with Rebekah's endless quest for love.

The Perceived Benefits:

Chronological order.
Character introductions.
Understanding of past conflicts.

Here's My Unpopular Opinion: Originals FIRST!

Okay, okay, hear me out! This might be controversial. But I stand by it: Start with The Originals.

Why? Because it's just... better. The stakes are higher. The sets are grander. The costumes are more dramatic. New Orleans has a certain charm that Mystic Falls just can't match, even with all its supernatural happenings.

Think of it like this: you're getting a highlight reel first. TO is the ultimate Mikaelson experience. It's the family drama dialed up to eleven.

Then, when you go back to TVD, it's like prequel magic! You already know the main players. You're just seeing their "awkward teenage years" now. Plus, you'll get excited when the Originals appear in TVD, instead of being like "who are these random new characters?".

Hear Me Out With Some More Reasoning!

Starting with The Originals gives you a quicker hook. The mature themes and complex storylines grab you fast.

Then, going back to TVD feels like a lighter, breezier watch. A pleasant interlude after the intensity of New Orleans. Think of it like dessert after a delicious main course.

And honestly? Who cares about chronological order when you're binge-watching vampires? Life's too short to be concerned about proper narrative sequencing.

"The most important thing is enjoying the journey, not necessarily following the exact roadmap." - Someone Wise (Probably Me)

The Potential Downsides (That I Choose to Ignore):

Some minor spoilers for TVD. (But honestly, everyone knows the big stuff anyway.)
Initial confusion about some character relationships. (Easily solved with a quick Google search.)
Purists might judge you. (But who cares what they think?)

Ultimately, the choice is yours. But consider this your permission slip to be a rebel. Watch The Originals first. You won't regret it.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to rewatch The Originals... for research purposes, of course. Enjoy your binge! And let me know what you think.