Fans asking when does The Originals come back on often find conflicting information across forums and news snippets. This guide clarifies the current status using official network announcements, renewal patterns, and production timelines.
Below is a structured overview that helps you quickly compare key dates, renewal decisions, and expected release windows for The Originals.
| Season | Network Decision | Renewal Date | Typical Premiere Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | Picked up | April 26, 2013 | October 2013 |
| Season 2 | Picked up | January 13, 2014 | October 2014 |
| Season 3 | Picked up | January 13, 2015 | October 2015 |
| Season 4 | Picked up | January 11, 2016 | March 2017 |
| Season 5 | Final season announced | July 2017 | April 2018 |
Renewal History and Official Announcements
The CW Network Decisions
The Originals consistently followed The Vampire Diaries schedule, receiving early renewals for Seasons 2 through 4. Each renewal was announced in January, allowing writers to plan multi-season arcs. Season 5 was confirmed as the final season in July 2017, ending the series in 2018.
Production and Filming Timelines
Filming for new seasons typically began in July following the renewal announcement. This schedule helped maintain consistent October or March premiere dates, depending on the season. Production pauses during major cast availability or real-world disruptions occasionally shifted air dates slightly.
Current Streaming Availability and Repeats
Where to Watch Now
The Originals is available on The CW app, Netflix in many regions, and digital purchase platforms. Repeats often air on The CW during summer lulls, giving viewers another chance to catch missed episodes or discover the series for the first time.
Special Marathon Events
To build hype for potential holiday events or farewell moments, networks sometimes schedule weekend marathons. These marathon blocks highlight key storylines and character evolutions, helping new audiences understand complex supernatural politics.
Upcoming Spinoffs and Related Projects
Legacies as a Spiritual Successor
The Originals cast members appear in Legacies, which continues the universe at a boarding school for supernatural beings. Although not a direct continuation, Legacies echoes themes and bloodlines introduced in The Originals, offering fans an extended experience.
Potential Crossover Opportunities
While no new Originals series are officially in development, periodic discussions about crossovers with Arrowverse shows keep fan interest alive. These talks focus on respecting established timelines and character ages, ensuring any return feels authentic rather than forced.
Planning Your Viewing and Staying Updated
Tracking Renewal Announcements
To answer when The Originals comes back on, monitor official network press releases in January and July. Social media channels from cast and producers often provide behind-the-scenes context that clarifies production status beyond simple renewal dates.
Setting Expectations for Future Seasons
As of now, no new season is in production or active development. Fans should rely on credible entertainment news outlets rather than rumors when anticipating returns, as false reports can create confusion around revival timelines.
Key Takeaways for Tracking The Originals Returns
- Seasons 1 to 5 all received clear renewal announcements, with Season 5 confirmed as the final season.
- The CW typically announces renewals in January and premieres new seasons in October or March.
- Current viewing options include streaming on The CW app, Netflix, and digital purchase platforms.
- Related content like Legacies keeps the universe alive, but no new Originals season is in development.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will The Originals ever return for a Season 6?
No, The Originals concluded with Season 5 in 2018, and there are no plans for additional seasons.
Are reruns of The Originals currently airing on The CW?
Yes, The CW occasionally airs reruns of The Originals during summer and special holiday programming blocks.
Can I watch The Originals on The CW app without a cable subscription?
Yes, The CW app offers free streaming of recent and past episodes with limited ads, and full access with a participating TV provider login.
Is there any chance of a spinoff series continuing the Mikaelson family story?
While there are ongoing projects in The Vampire Diaries and Legacies universe, no new Mikaelson-led series have been officially ordered.