Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Nina Dobrev Reveals Pay Disparities in ‘Vampire Diaries’

9/10/2025

50 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Nina Dobrev disclosed pay disparities in Samantha Highfill's book, “I Was Feeling Epic.”
She and co-stars Candice King and Kat Graham were among the lowest-paid regulars in the first two seasons.
Dobrev's contract only covered her role as Elena, despite playing multiple characters.
She never achieved pay parity with male leads Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley.
Dobrev left after Season 6 but returned for the finale in 2017 after negotiating equal pay.

1 of 1

Story summary

Nina Dobrev disclosed pay disparities in Samantha Highfill's book, “I Was Feeling Epic.”
She and co-stars Candice King and Kat Graham were among the lowest-paid regulars in the first two seasons.
Dobrev's contract only covered her role as Elena, despite playing multiple characters.
She never achieved pay parity with male leads Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley.
Dobrev left after Season 6 but returned for the finale in 2017 after negotiating equal pay.