Skip To Main Content

The episode of The Vampire Diaries originally aired on September 10, 2009 , on The CW. It introduced audiences to the small, supernatural-prone town of Mystic Falls and established the foundational love triangle between a grieving teenager, Elena Gilbert , and the vampire brothers Stefan and Damon Salvatore . Plot Summary: A New Beginning

It’s the episode that started a fandom, launched a thousand fan-fiction stories, and proved that the CW could do dark and gritty long before Riverdale .

Elena goes to the Salvatore Boarding House to return a pocket watch Stefan dropped. She meets Damon, who (politely, for him) invites her in. But the real kicker comes when she leaves. Stefan reveals to Damon why he came back to Mystic Falls.

The episode is known for its moody, teen-angst-driven atmosphere, heavily influenced by its late 2000s soundtrack. Notable songs from the pilot include: "Running Up That Hill" by Placebo "Back to Me" by The All-American Rejects "Never Say Never" by The Fray Key Attribute in Pilot Elena Gilbert Protagonist Dealing with grief; writes in her diary. Stefan Salvatore Lead Vampire Brooding, "hero" type; protects Elena. Damon Salvatore Antagonist/Anti-hero Seductive and dangerous; taunts Stefan. Jeremy Gilbert Elena's Brother Rebellious; struggling with drug use. Bonnie Bennett Best Friend Discovering her psychic heritage. Caroline Forbes Friend/Socialite Highly competitive; immediately interested in Stefan.

The episode effectively sets up the central love triangle and the underlying mystery of , a woman from Stefan and Damon's past who looks identical to Elena.

Cue the slow-motion hallway walk.