Stake Out "The Vampire Diaries" Spinoff "The Originals"

Production has now started on "The Vampire Diaries" spin-off "The Originals", according to Mark Pedowitz, President, The CW.

"Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson have done a fantastic job with 'The Vampire Diaries,'", said Pedowitz, "which is as fast-paced and well-written as ever, and Julie has created an equally compelling world for 'The Originals'..."

"The Vampire Diaries" episode, "The Originals", showcasing the  spin-off series was written by Plec and directed by Chris Grismer, airing April 25, 2013.

Intended as a 'back-door' pilot, "The Originals" stars Joseph Morgan as 'vampire'  'Klaus' and Phoebe Tonkin as 'werewolf' 'Hayley':

"...acting on a mysterious tip that a plot is brewing against him in New Orleans, 'Klaus' (Morgan) makes a trip to the town he and his family helped build. 

"Klaus’ questions lead him to a reunion with his former protégé, 'Marcel' (Charles Michael Davis).

"Marcel is a charismatic vampire who has total control over the human and supernatural inhabitants of New Orleans.

"Determined to help his brother find redemption, 'Elijah' (Daniel Gillies) follows Klaus.

"She soon learns that 'Hayley' (Tonkin) has also come to the French Quarter searching for clues to her family history, and has fallen into the hands of a powerful witch named 'Sophie' (Daniella Pineda). 

"Meanwhile, in Mystic Falls, 'Damon' (Ian Somerhalder) and 'Stefan' (Paul Wesley) continue with their plan for 'Elena' (Nina Dobrev).

"Then 'Katherine' (Nina Dobrev) reveals a surprising vulnerability to 'Rebekah' (Claire Holt) and asks her to deliver a message..."

Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek "The Vampire Diaries: The Originals"...