“I’m sure there are a billion other people you’d rather be here with.”
“Not exactly.”
The Vampire Diarieshas an incredible legacy.
From itsepic love triangleto the universe it started, so much was sparked by our introduction to Mystic Falls.
Damon was the reckless brother who made impulsive choices, pissed everyone off, and often made life difficult.
Where their stories began kicked off two incredible series arcs, but made them an unlikely pairing.
At the start, the only thing they had in common was Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev).
In fact, at different points, they each tried to kill the other.
Still,The Vampire Diaries never lost sight of who each individual was.
Their bond plays an essential role in Damon’s series-long redemption arc.
Friendship can be messy and still be great, which these two proved in spades.
When Nina Dobrev left at the end of season 6, Bamon helped breathe new life into the series.
But he didn’t, both because he loved Bonnie and he knew Elena would never forgive him.
Instead, the two leaned on each other as they struggled to find purpose in a world after Elena.
They fought together, they were pitted against each other, and ultimately, they helped each other survive.
Damon and Bonnie were partners-in-crime or bickering besties, both of which resulted in great stories.
We haveThe Vampire Diariesto thank for many things, and high up on that list is Bamon.
Read more fromI Want My Teen TV, EW’s summerlong celebration of teen shows past and present.