Kayla Ewell is an American actress and model best known for her memorable television roles, most notably as Caroline Forbes in the hit supernatural drama The Vampire Diaries. With a career spanning over two decades on both television and film, Ewell has built a diverse resume encompassing dramatic acting, independent film projects, and high-profile modeling campaigns.
The primary search intent behind exploring Ewell's career revolves around understanding her trajectory from mainstream teen television to subsequent acting projects, her professional background, and her personal ventures outside of acting. While many profiles only touch upon her time in Mystic Falls, a complete look at her career reveals a steady progression through guest-starring television runs, indie cinema, and commercial modeling partnerships.
Early Life and Acting Beginnings
Born in Long Beach, California, Ewell grew up with a strong focus on the performing arts, training in dance, acting, and singing from a young age. Before landing major television roles, she worked steadily in commercials and small guest spots.
Her early breakout television role came in the daytime drama The Bold and the Beautiful, where she played Maureen Bradley from 2004 to 2005. This recurring soap opera role gave her essential daily production experience, helping her transition into prime-time television. Following her run on daytime TV, she appeared in guest roles across popular series such as The O.C., Boston Public, and Entourage, establishing her presence within the competitive Los Angeles casting circuit.
Breakthrough on The Vampire Diaries
In 2009, Ewell secured the role that would define a major portion of her career: Caroline Forbes in The CW's The Vampire Diaries. Initially introduced as a human high school student, social butterfly, and frenemy to Elena Gilbert, Caroline's character arc became one of the most dynamic in the series.
Although Ewell was a series regular in the first season, her character's journey shifted when Caroline was turned into a vampire early in the second season—a transformation that catapulted the character into fan-favorite status and cemented Ewell's acting range. Even after exiting the main cast as a regular, Ewell made memorable guest appearances across subsequent seasons, returning to tie up narrative loose ends and celebrate milestones within the fictional town of Mystic Falls.
Expanding Film and Television Projects
Moving beyond supernatural teen drama, Ewell deliberately sought out diverse characters across independent film and episodic television. Her filmography includes credits in thriller, comedy, and dramatic features.
Some notable post-Vampire Diaries television appearances include:
- Hawaii Five-0: Guest-starring in action-oriented procedural settings.
- The Real O'Neals: Showcasing her comedic timing in a network family sitcom.
- Entourage: Early career appearance bridging her into studio television.
She also took on challenging independent film roles, such as her work in the mini-series Sugar (2013), where she portrayed Savannah Towne Jackson. Projects like these allowed her to experiment with period-piece settings and complex, character-driven storytelling away from network television constraints.
Modeling and Brand Partnerships
Alongside her acting commitments, Ewell established a successful career in commercial modeling. She signed with Wilhelmina Models in New York, leveraging her striking look and camera experience into high-profile print campaigns and fashion editorials.
Her crossover between acting and modeling is common for television performers based in Los Angeles, but Ewell maintained a consistent presence in both industries, participating in brand campaigns and digital fashion features.
Philanthropy and Personal Ventures
Away from the camera, Ewell has been actively involved in charitable initiatives. She has lent her support to various nonprofit organizations focusing on children's welfare, health advocacy, and community support. Her involvement often includes charity events, fundraising galas, and digital awareness campaigns alongside fellow actors and public figures.
In her personal life, she married actor and musician Tanner Novlan in 2015, and the couple shares children. Balancing family life with an active filming schedule in Los Angeles has remained a central focus of her recent professional choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role is Kayla Ewell most famous for playing?
Kayla Ewell is best known for playing Caroline Forbes in the first season of The Vampire Diaries, and returning as a guest star in later seasons.
Is Kayla Ewell still acting?
Yes, she continues to work in television and independent film projects, while also balancing commercial modeling and family life.
Who is Kayla Ewell married to?
She has been married to actor Tanner Novlan since September 2015, and the couple has children together.
Did Kayla Ewell star in any daytime soap operas?
Yes, before her prime-time success, she played Maureen Bradley on The Bold and the Beautiful from 2004 to 2005.
