The Vampire Diaries Star Reveals Crippling 8-Figure Debt After Acting Retirement

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The Vampire Diaries ended nearly a decade ago, and this star’s retirement left him nearly penniless.

Based on the books by L.J. Smith, The Vampire Diaries is a teen drama created by Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec. It has grown into a larger universe with two spin-off shows, The Originals and Legacies, totaling 17 seasons and 331 episodes. The series is known for its supernatural elements—vampires, witches, and werewolves—and its focus on romantic relationships.

Ian Somerhalder, known for his role as Damon Salvatore on The Vampire Diaries, recently shared with E News about his life since stepping away from acting seven years ago. He revealed that he and his wife, Nikki Reed, struggled with significant financial difficulties – reaching eight figures in debt – after a failed business venture.

Let me tell you, stepping away from acting seven years ago was a huge decision, but necessary. I walked away from a really successful TV career because of a business venture that, frankly, I didn’t handle well. It ended with some serious fraud, leaving my wife, Nikki, and me deeply in debt – we’re talking eight figures. It was a tough climb out, but Nikki was incredible. We basically had to liquidate everything – the houses, the art, the cars, even my watches – to get back on our feet. She really led the charge in negotiating our way out of that mess.

I could have been financially secure from one of the most popular TV shows ever, but instead, I chose to start businesses that might never make me any money.

Ian Somerhalder is best known for his role in the popular teen drama The Vampire Diaries, but he’s also appeared in shows like Lost, Smallville, and the recent series V-Wars. He also had a part in the film The Rules of Attraction and The Anomaly. Similarly, Meagan Reed is recognized for playing Rosalie Cullen in the Twilight saga, but her resume also includes V-Wars, Thirteen, Sleepy Hollow, and The O.C.

Since leaving acting as a full-time job, I’ve been fascinated to see how Ian Somerhalder’s transitioned into the business world. He’s got a really cool venture with his Vampire Diaries co-star, Paul Wesley – they created Brother’s Bond Bourbon, a nod to their on-screen brotherly relationship. But that’s not all! He also founded The Absorption Company, which is all about wellness and creating supplements backed by real science. It’s great to see him pursuing passions beyond acting!

Even though he’s faced some money troubles, Paul Wesley Somerhalder hasn’t expressed any interest in returning to acting. He’s been married to Nikki Reed since 2015, and in a 2021 Instagram post, he credited her with helping him overcome a very difficult period in his life.

This woman refused to watch her husband destroy himself, so she took immediate action. She worked tirelessly to build a support system and get him into treatment, determined to find a solution. She dedicated her life to helping me overcome this difficult time, and it nearly cost her everything. I owe my current life and well-being entirely to her.

Reed and Somerhalder have two children and have largely enjoyed a quiet retirement on a farm with their family. Despite being over, their show, The Vampire Diaries, remains incredibly popular and continues to be a streaming hit.

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2026-05-02 18:00