Stefan Salvatore, the brooding, conflicted vampire from “The Vampire Diaries,” crosses over to the equally dramatic world of “The Originals” in season 3, episode 9, titled “Savior.” His presence offers a compelling diversion and introduces new dynamics to the escalating conflict in New Orleans.
Stefan’s Journey to New Orleans: A Brief Respite
Stefan’s appearance in “The Originals” isn’t merely a cameo; it’s a crucial moment within both series’ intertwined timelines. He’s seeking refuge from a hunter named Rayna Cruz, whose supernatural abilities pose a significant threat to all vampires. New Orleans, with its established supernatural community and powerful figures like Klaus Mikaelson, initially seems like a sanctuary.
Escaping Rayna Cruz: The Premise of the Crossover
The episode picks up with Stefan desperate to escape Rayna, a figure of immense power introduced in “The Vampire Diaries.” He learns that Rayna’s magic doesn’t work in New Orleans, offering him temporary safety within the city’s magical boundaries. This escape is the catalyst for his interaction with the Mikaelsons, particularly Klaus, with whom he shares a complicated past.
Confronting Klaus: Old History, New Tensions
Stefan and Klaus’s history is a tangled web of friendship, betrayal, and shared enemies. The crossover episode allows them to confront their past, revisiting moments from their time in Chicago in the 1920s. Their dynamic is charged with both animosity and a strange sense of camaraderie, making for compelling viewing. The episode cleverly weaves flashbacks to that era, adding layers of complexity to their interactions in the present.
The Significance of Stefan’s Appearance
Stefan’s presence, though brief, significantly impacts the narrative of “The Originals.” It serves to:
- Reinforce the connectedness of the Vampire Diaries Universe.
- Explore Klaus’s complex character through his interactions with someone who knows his past.
- Offer a brief respite from the escalating threats in Mystic Falls for Stefan.
- Advance the overarching storyline of “The Originals,” albeit in a tangential way.
While Stefan’s stay in New Orleans is short-lived, it’s a memorable addition to both series, highlighting the intricate connections between the characters and their intertwined destinies.
Stefan and Klaus: A Complicated Relationship Examined
Their relationship is a highlight of the episode. They are bound by shared history but also deeply scarred by past betrayals. Stefan understands a darker side of Klaus, a side often hidden from others. Their interactions reveal a complex power dynamic, with Klaus constantly testing Stefan’s limits and Stefan occasionally challenging Klaus’s authority.
Reflecting on Past Sins
The flashbacks to Chicago in the 1920s show a different side of both characters. We see Klaus at a time when he was perhaps more vulnerable and Stefan, a young vampire, grappling with his newfound existence. These glimpses into the past provide context for their present-day interactions, highlighting how their experiences have shaped them both. The events that transpired in Chicago, including Stefan’s brief period of ripper behavior under Klaus’s influence, continue to haunt their relationship.
A Shared Understanding of Darkness
Despite their differences, Stefan and Klaus share a dark understanding of each other. Both have committed acts they regret and carry the burden of their past. This shared darkness allows them to connect on a level that few others can, even amidst their animosity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Stefan’s Appearance in “The Originals”
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into Stefan Salvatore’s appearance in “The Originals”:
FAQ 1: Why did Stefan go to New Orleans in the first place?
Stefan sought refuge in New Orleans because he learned that the magical boundaries of the city, established by the witches, would prevent Rayna Cruz, the vampire hunter, from tracking him. He believed it offered temporary protection.
FAQ 2: Does Stefan interact with all the Mikaelsons in the episode?
He primarily interacts with Klaus. There are brief interactions with Elijah and Freya, but his relationship with Klaus takes center stage due to their shared history. Other Mikaelsons like Rebekah (who is often absent) or Kol do not significantly feature.
FAQ 3: How long does Stefan stay in New Orleans?
Stefan’s stay is brief. He only appears in “Savior,” Season 3, Episode 9. He quickly realizes New Orleans is far from safe, even without Rayna, and departs shortly after.
FAQ 4: Does his appearance in “The Originals” impact the storyline of “The Vampire Diaries”?
Yes, it does. It directly follows his storyline on “The Vampire Diaries” regarding Rayna Cruz. His actions in New Orleans, while limited, contribute to his overall character arc and inform his subsequent decisions back in Mystic Falls.
FAQ 5: Is there any romantic interest between Stefan and any characters in “The Originals”?
There is no explicit romantic interest displayed. The episode primarily focuses on his complex relationship with Klaus and the immediate threat posed by Rayna Cruz.
FAQ 6: Does Stefan learn anything significant while in New Orleans?
Stefan learns that even in a city teeming with supernatural power, he can’t escape his problems indefinitely. He realizes that facing Rayna is inevitable. He also gains a clearer understanding of Klaus’s motivations and the depths of his complex nature.
FAQ 7: Is there a possibility of Stefan appearing in “The Originals” again after this episode?
Sadly, Stefan doesn’t appear in “The Originals” again. His story concludes with his return to Mystic Falls to confront Rayna Cruz in “The Vampire Diaries.” Actor Paul Wesley has stated he prefers the one-off crossover events rather than prolonged appearances.
FAQ 8: What does Klaus think of Stefan’s arrival?
Klaus initially mocks Stefan’s predicament and uses his vulnerability to assert his dominance. However, beneath the surface, there is a sense of concern, even a twisted form of friendship. Klaus seems to enjoy having Stefan in his orbit, albeit briefly.
FAQ 9: Does Stefan’s experience in New Orleans change him in any way?
While the change isn’t drastic, his brief experience reinforces his resolve to protect those he cares about. He witnesses the raw power and complex dynamics of the Mikaelson family, further solidifying his own values and commitments.
FAQ 10: Where does this episode fall chronologically in relation to the “Vampire Diaries” timeline?
The episode occurs during Season 7 of “The Vampire Diaries,” concurrently with Stefan’s storyline involving Rayna Cruz. This crossover episode allows viewers to follow both storylines simultaneously, providing context for events in both shows.
FAQ 11: What makes this crossover episode so popular among fans?
The crossover is popular because it brings together two beloved characters from different but related series. It allows fans to see the dynamic between Stefan and Klaus, exploring their history and the complex relationship they share. It also provided a refreshing break from the main storylines of both shows.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch the episode “Savior” to see Stefan in “The Originals”?
You can typically find “The Originals” Season 3, Episode 9 (“Savior”) on streaming services that carry “The Originals,” such as Netflix (depending on region), Amazon Prime Video, or Hulu (if available with live TV). Purchasing the episode or season through digital platforms like iTunes or Google Play is another option. Check your local listings for availability.