'The Vampire Diaries' star Ian Somerhalder talks new love interest for Damon; fans worried he might leave show

(Reuters)

Ever since Nina Dobrev left "The Vampire Diaries," fans are wondering what will happen to Ian Somerhalder's character, Damon, since Elena was the love of his life. The actor himself admits that it would be hard to replace the dynamic that Elena and Damon had.

According to Somerhalder, it might take some time before Damon find someone else to love, although he will try.

"Elena even told him, 'Go live your life!'" the actor said. But he added that while his character isn't "quite there" yet, Damon's next love would have some pretty big shoes to fill as fans of "The Vampire Diaries" are quite the opinionated bunch.

However, some are wondering if Damon would even be given the chance to find new love as there are ongoing speculations on whether the 36-year-old actor would be staying for much longer in the show.

The rumors that Somerhalder might be quitting "The Vampire Diaries" began when the star's recent social media posts gave off the impression that he was reminiscing and saying goodbye.

One post showed him wearing Damon's costume while another showed a photo of a screen listing "The Vampire Diaries" as the number one TV show.

Some sites opined that the actor might be quitting the show to work on new projects, especially now that the tandem of Elena Gilbert and Damon Salvatore are effectively over. However, others are saying the actor is being forced by his wife, Nikki Reed, to leave the show so that his association with Dobrev will finally end.

The "Young Americans" alum was noticeably absent in the recently held "Teen Choice Awards" and some fans are saying Reed had stopped her husband from going to the event because of the show's Choice TV: Liplock award. Winners of the award often reprise their winning kiss on stage and reports say Reed wanted to avoid the two exes from kissing.

"The Vampire Diaries" is set to return this October on The CW.

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