5 Non-Canon Ships That Outshined Vampire Diaries' Original Couples

People crave love, and as TV fans, we tend to ship characters even when there is nothing in the story to suggest they could be romantically linked.

One of The CW's flagship series, The Vampire Diaries became a huge hit shortly after its premiere in 2009. Built around the classic trope of human-vampire romance, the teen show followed Elena Gilbert and the Salvatore brothers, Stefan and Damon, who were all involved in a complicated love triangle (at some points in the show at least).

But aside from the main trio, The Vampire Diaries also featured plenty of compelling side characters, and some fans think they should have been romantically linked to one another, or one of the protagonists. The following five non-official couples are gold, compared to the series' canonical silver.

5. Elena and Elijah

Yes, instead of Stefan or Damon, some viewers wished Elena would end up with Elijah. The fans say the two were remarkably compatible, as they shared the same core values and outlook on life. And there was great chemistry between them, brilliantly conveyed in their one-time kiss.

4. Katherine and Kai

The Vampire Diaries' main antagonists could have made a great romantic duo. As a couple, Katherine and Kai would bicker all the time, armed with their sarcastic sense of humor, and their power dynamics would be interesting to follow.

3. Tyler and Elena

Fans say this underexplored childhood friend situation is a missed opportunity for The Vampire Diaries. Whenever Tyler and Elena met, they showed great affection and respect for one another. It seems that they understood each other deeply and were perfect material for a strong, mature romance.

But on the flip side, their relationship would have lacked drama, which is essential for the show.

2. Stefan and Klaus

When these characters met in Mystic Falls, they had already known each other for over a century. Notably, Klaus did have a crush on Stefan, which is why he wanted the younger vampire back by his side. It's a shame their relationship was never explored on the show.

1. Bonnie and Elena

The friendship between Elena and Bonnie is arguably the best relationship in The Vampire Diaries. The two besties were there for each other during the watershed moments of their lives and, as some fans note, looked like an old married couple who'd been through a lot together.

Sadly, the writers did not dare to make them a romantic couple, which would really turn the story upside down!