Best known for his role as the suave and tormented Elijah Mikaelson in The Vampire Diaries and its spin-off The Originals, Daniel Gillies is no stranger to intense, emotionally rich roles. And now, he’s bringing his signature gravitas to Netflix’s Virgin River, where fans are eager to uncover the secrets behind his new character.
👶 Early Life & Roots
Born March 14, 1976 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Daniel was raised in New Zealand, where his family returned when he was young. His international upbringing gave him a worldly perspective that’s served him well in the diverse roles he’s taken on. Though he comes from a family of medical professionals, Daniel pursued acting from an early age — eventually moving to Sydney, then Canada, and later Los Angeles to chase his Hollywood dreams.
🌙 Career Breakthrough: The Vampire Diaries & The Originals
Gillies gained worldwide recognition as Elijah Mikaelson, the eternally well-dressed and morally complex Original vampire. His portrayal quickly turned Elijah into a fan-favorite across both The Vampire Diaries and The Originals (2013–2018), where he starred alongside Joseph Morgan and Phoebe Tonkin.
With his sharp wit, intense eyes, and Old World manners, Elijah became one of the most iconic supernatural characters in CW history.
🎬 Beyond the Vampire Universe
Daniel’s talent goes far beyond fangs and family curses. His resume includes:
-
Saving Hope (2012–2017) – As Dr. Joel Goran, Gillies played a passionate and complicated surgeon in this Canadian medical drama.
-
Spider-Man 2 (2004) – A small but memorable appearance as John Jameson, Mary Jane Watson’s astronaut fiancé.
-
Broken Kingdom (2012) – A deeply personal indie film that he wrote, directed, and starred in, showing off his skill behind the camera.
-
Coming Home in the Dark (2021) – A chilling psychological thriller where Gillies gave a dark, riveting performance far removed from his CW days.
🌲 Daniel in Virgin River
Daniel joined Virgin River in its sixth season, immediately raising eyebrows and curiosity. While Netflix has kept his role under wraps, early glimpses suggest his character brings emotional complexity and a bit of mystery to the already drama-rich small town.
Fans are speculating whether he’ll shake up the love triangle, play a new doctor or long-lost family member, or bring a more sinister twist to Virgin River’s usually cozy tone.
❤️ Personal Life
Daniel was married to actress Rachael Leigh Cook (She’s All That) from 2004 to 2020, and the pair share two children. The split was amicable, and the two continue to co-parent. Off-screen, he is known for his thoughtful insights, commitment to his craft, and a dry sense of humor that fans love.
🔮 What’s Next?
With his role in Virgin River just beginning and his history of stealing every scene he’s in, Daniel Gillies is set for yet another memorable chapter. Whether he’s a hero, villain, or something in between, one thing’s for sure — you can’t take your eyes off him.
From vampire nobility to new beginnings in Virgin River, Daniel Gillies continues to redefine depth and charm in every role he takes on.
