Vampire Diaries' Nina Dobrev Comments on Ex Ian Somerhalder Relationship

Nina Dobrev revealed in the book I Was Feeling Epic: An Oral History of The Vampire Diaries that during her audition for the CW series, she was secretly dating actor Rob Mayes, who was trying out for the role of Damon Salvatore, a role that ultimately went to Ian Somerhalder. Dobrev and Mayes kept their relationship hidden during casting to avoid jeopardizing their chances of being cast. Although Mayes did not get the role and they later broke up, Dobrev eventually began dating Ian Somerhalder, who played Damon, from 2010 to 2013. Despite their breakup, Nina and Ian continued to work together on the show until her departure in 2015 and maintained a friendly relationship, even sharing a playful kiss at the 2014 People’s Choice Awards when accepting the Best Chemistry award. Series creator Julie Plec recalled the complexity of their off-screen and on-screen romances, advising caution as the actors balanced real-life relationships with their fictional roles. The story highlights the intertwined personal and professional dynamics behind the beloved TV series.