The CW Network is planning a potential spin-off series of The Vampire Diaries entitled The Originals, featuring the Original vampire family lead by Klaus (Joseph Morgan) and Hayley (Phoebe Tonkin).

The Vampire Diaries executive producer Julie Plec is writing the episode, which focuses on Klaus returning to New Orleans, a city he literally helped build centuries ago. He reunites with the nefarious Marcel, who has yet to be cast. It isn't clear how Phoebe Tonkin's Hayley will factor into the story. The Originals, the first vampires ever to walk the Earth, debuted in Season 2 and have become fan favorites.

If the network orders this spin-off to series, Julie Plec will executive produce with Alloy Entertainment's Leslie Morgenstein and Gina Girolamo. Casting announcements for the episode are expected to be made in the near future.

The Originals could give a much needed boost to the network's Thursday night line-up, since they haven't found a suitable series to follow The Vampire Diaries. The Secret Circle landed the 9 PM time slot after The Vampire Diaries last season, with the network canceling the show after just one season. Beauty & the Beast is currently occupying the 9 PM slot, although that show is struggling as well.