Ian Somerhalder: Michael Malarkey Brings ‘Fresh Perspective’ To ‘The Vampire Diaries’

As Enzo, Michael Malarkey has helped bring new drama to “The Vampire Diaries,” and on Wednesday, his co-star, Ian Somerhalder, sang the newcomer’s praises.

“We’ve been together – Nina [Dobrev] and Paul [Wesley] and myself — have been together for so many years at this point that we know everything about one another and to have someone new come in with a really fresh perspective and someone who’s really, really diving into the material in a very deep, profound way — it’s really rewarding,” Ian Somerhalder told TV reporters, as he sat in the very same room where he auditioned for “TVD,” five years ago.

“It’s very cool,” Ian continued of what Michael brings as an actor. “And to really see the writing just come to life in front of you is pretty positive.”

PHOTOS: ‘The Vampire Diaries’: Scenes From Season 5

This week’s episode of The CW’s “TVD” is fairly Enzo-heavy, but fans first got to know him in flashback form when he was imprisoned by the Augustine society, and held captive alongside Ian’s Damon Salvatore, as the two were used for study and experimentation. On Wednesday, Ian recalled his first scene with the Mystic Falls newcomer, and said that he was impressed with Michael’s work quite quickly.

“I remember the first scene when we were in the cell in 509, which — I can’t believe that was 509, we’ve had him for almost the whole season — we were rehearsing in that cell. … But, I remember the first even rehearsal, I thought, ‘Oh yeah, man, this guy is on it. Not only does he look like Johnny Depp, but he’s just in it.’ And he’s in it, and I can’t wait to see what Damon and Enzo end up doing,” Ian said.

PHOTOS: ‘Vampire Diaries’ Heartthrob Ian Somerhalder

“The Vampire Diaries” continues Thursday at 8/7c on The CW.

Jolie Lash

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