The Originals: An Iconic Supernatural Couple’s Real-Life Story Revealed
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the television series The Originals thrilled audiences with its unique take on the supernatural. Playing the iconic characters of siblings Klaus and Elijah Mikaelson, respectively, Daniel Gillies and Joseph Morgan brought the centuries-old love story to life. Little did fans know that this fictional couple’s real-life counterparts, Gillies and Morgan, had a very special bond as well – a friendship that has remained strong over the years. Let’s dive into the duo’s real-life story to find out what makes The Originals phenomenon tick.
Daniel Gillies and Joseph Morgan – Real-Life Companions
Daniel Gillies (Klaus Mikaelson) and Joseph Morgan (Elijah Mikaelson) met in 2011 on the set of The Vampire Diaries, where they played supernatural siblings. Despite their intense on-screen chemistry, no one knew at the time that they would become great friends and life partners beyond the show.
In their own words, Gillies and Morgan credit their similar personalities and sense of humor for their enduring friendship: "We clicked immediately because we share the same ridiculous sense of humor. When we’re together, time flies by," Morgan remarked in an interview. Adds Gillies, "Joe is one of the only people who gets me like no one else does." This bond blossomed on set, allowing them to share personal struggles and milestones, including each other’s relationships and families.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
In an extraordinary twist, The Originals was initially proposed as a backdoor pilot, where The Vampire Diaries would set the stage for the brothers’ spin-off. According to Morgan, the production team asked Gillies if he would play Klaus opposite him as Elijah. However, the casting process underwent a few iterations before eventually settling on their current actors.
In a surprising departure from their characters’ notorious sibling rivalry, Gillies and Morgan shared a powerful bonding experience: they performed a 21-day silence fast together as a commitment to their on-screen project. This exercise in sacrifice allowed them to tap deeper into their characters’ vulnerability and connection.
Morgan’s Romantic Life Partner: Persia White (Bonnie Bennett)
In 2013, Morgan tied the knot with The Vampire Diaries co-star Persia White, playing Bonnie Bennett. Their on-screen rapport as Bonnie and Elijah earned them a significant fan base. Although they never rekindled their on-screen chemistry in the real-life, they continue to have a close bond as lifelong friends.
In a romantic gesture, Morgan surprised Persia with a heartfelt tattoo on their first anniversary – a delicate flower design adorned with the word "LaFleur," a title earned by Bonnie in her journey as a powerful vampire. Their marriage, free from the constraints of filming, allowed them to balance their professional lives with quiet, family-focused moments together.
Daniel Gillies’ Romantic Life Partner: Rachel Leigh Cook
More recently, in 2004, Daniel Gillies married actress Rachel Leigh Cook, known for her memorable roles in films like She’s All That and Friday Night Lights. Together, the couple shares two children. Cook has spoken publicly about the challenges of balancing personal life with an actor husband, citing Morgan and the The Originals family as constant sources of support.
As Gillies reflects on their friendship: "Joe has been such a rock for me; we’ve had our up and downs like any group of friends. But no matter what, we stick together." It’s comforting to know that, when the cameras stopped rolling on The Originals in 2018, these beloved co-stars solidified their real-life companionship, solidifying The Originals love story for years to come.
In a world often consumed by celebrity drama, The Originals’ castmates serve as a testament to the rare power of authentic friendships blossoming amidst intense creative energies.