L.J. Smith, the beloved author behind The Vampire Diaries and The Secret Circle, has passed away at the age of 66 after a long battle with an autoimmune disease. The news was confirmed by The New York Times, with a statement on her website remembering her as a “kind and gentle soul” whose creativity and empathy touched the lives of many.
Born on September 4, 1958, Lisa Jane Smith initially worked as an elementary school teacher before transitioning to full-time writing in 1989. She gained widespread recognition in the early ‘90s with The Vampire Diaries, a series that introduced readers to two vampire brothers and their complex relationship with an orphaned young woman.
The books found renewed success in 2009 when The Vampire Diaries was adapted into a TV series, skyrocketing to global fame and running for eight seasons. Starring Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, and Ian Somerhalder, the show became a cultural phenomenon, earning 30 Teen Choice Awards.
Beyond The Vampire Diaries, Smith’s influence in supernatural fiction extended to her other best-selling trilogies, including Night World, The Secret Circle, Dark Visions, and The Forbidden Game. She built a devoted fanbase, drawn to her intricate storytelling and compelling characters.
Despite being removed from The Vampire Diaries book series by her publishers in 2011, Smith found a way to continue engaging with her world. She used Amazon’s Kindle platform to self-publish unofficial sequels, ensuring her beloved characters lived on.
Smith’s legacy as a pioneer in supernatural fiction remains undeniable. Her imaginative storytelling and dedication to her readers will continue to inspire generations to come.
