Actor Ian Somerhalder isn't hesitant to admit that he is relieved that his former love, Nina Dobrev, has decided to leave "The Vampire Diaries".

A new character named Alex will be introduced in Season 7 to replace Dobrev's character, Elena. Alex is said to be "an untrustworthy character" who leads a mysterious organization. No actor or actress has been cast in the said role yet.

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Since the break-up of Dobrev and Somerhalder, the set of has allegedly been tense. Emotions were said to be even more intense after Somerhalder married Nikki Reed, an ex-friend of Dobrev's, following a quick courtship and engagement.

Somerhalder said he was one of those who didn't know how the departure would affect the show. However, he welcomes the fact that the change has been advantageous for his character, Damon.

"What we've just started shooting is such a departure (from what is expected of the show). I just started shooting episode 10, which is a concept episode. The episode was really about Damon, but that's not why I think it was the best at all. The way the story was put together ... every artisan from set to producers to wardrobe to everyone was just so on-point," Somerhalder shared in an interview with Variety magazine.

Reed, who starred in the "Twilight" films, has reportedly been pushing her husband to leave "The Vampire Diaries" and focus on a bigger movie career. The two are said to also be looking forward to having a baby in the near future.

TagsNina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder, nikki reed, ian somerhalder nikki reed, Ian Somerhalder The Vampire Diaries, The Vampire Diaries