"The Vampire Diaries" is a popular American supernatural drama television series that premiered on September 10, 2009, on The CW. The show is based on the book series of the same name written by L.J. Smith. The pilot episode, directed by Kevin Williamson, introduces viewers to the small town of Mystic Falls, Virginia, and the lives of its residents, particularly focusing on Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev) and her encounter with vampires.

He’s the classic "mysterious new guy"—brooding, handsome, and intensely focused on Elena. They meet outside the men’s room, an awkward but electric encounter that sparks an immediate connection. For Elena, Stefan is a distraction from her pain. For Stefan, Elena is a mirror image of someone he loved over a century ago: Katherine Pierce.