Critics and fans largely agree that episode 6x22 is a masterclass in handling a major cast departure. Instead of abruptly killing off Elena, the writers crafted a clever magical loophole that respected her character's journey while leaving the door cracked open for her eventual return. 📈 High Points
The writers' treatment of Alaric was a frequent complaint. After losing Jenna and Isobel, the scene where he holds the body of his murdered, pregnant bride Jo, followed by his attempted suicide in the car, was considered overly dark. The Vampire Diaries - Season 6Eps22
The episode's true core rests on Damon’s shoulders. The "old" Damon would have let Bonnie die to keep Elena awake. Choosing to save Bonnie and wait 60+ years for Elena proved his ultimate redemption and cemented his character development. Critics and fans largely agree that episode 6x22
A massive takeaway praised by reviewers at TV Fanatic and Den of Geek was the realization that the show had successfully moved past its original teenage love triangle. Stefan admitting to Caroline that Elena's greatest gift was bringing his brother back to him reframed the entire show as a love story between Damon and Stefan. After losing Jenna and Isobel, the scene where