10 Shocking Facts About Kayla Ewell: From Mystic Falls Vampire To Podcast Host And Motherhood

Kayla Ewell is an American actress whose career has successfully transitioned from the dramatic world of soap operas and supernatural teen dramas to the dynamic space of podcasting and independent film. As of December 11, 2025, Ewell is not only celebrated for her iconic, short-lived, but unforgettable role as Vicki Donovan on The CW's hit series, The Vampire Diaries, but also for her candid work as a co-host on a popular lifestyle podcast, a testament to her evolving professional journey.

Her recent activities highlight a busy life balancing a thriving Hollywood career, which includes recent film projects like Agent Revelation, with the joys and challenges of raising a young family in Los Angeles. Fans are constantly looking for the latest news on the star who brought so much complexity to the character who became the first vampire killed in Mystic Falls.

The Complete Biography and Profile of Kayla Ewell

Kayla Noelle Ewell-Novlan has built a diverse and compelling career across television and film. Her biography is marked by early success in daytime television and a powerful resurgence in genre shows, followed by a pivot into new media as a thought leader.

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• Full Name: Kayla Noelle Ewell-Novlan
• Date of Birth: August 27, 1985
• Place of Birth: Long Beach, California, U.S.
• Current Residence: Los Angeles, California
• Spouse: Tanner Novlan (m. 2015)
• Children: Daughter Poppy (born 2019) and Son Jones Douglas Novlan (born June 6, 2022)
• Notable Television Roles:
  • Vicki Donovan on The Vampire Diaries (The CW)
  • Caitlin Ramirez on The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)
  • Nora Truman on Roswell, New Mexico (The CW)
  • Amanda Bello on Lucifer (Netflix)
• Notable Film Roles:
  • Billy in Agent Revelation (2021)
  • Casey in Fired Up! (2009)
• Other Ventures: Co-host of the podcast Directionally Challenged

The Unexpected Evolution of Her Career Post-Vicki Donovan

While many fans primarily associate Kayla Ewell with her role as Vicki Donovan, the troubled, party-loving sister of Matt Donovan in The Vampire Diaries, her career has seen significant, fresh developments since her character's dramatic exit and subsequent guest appearances. Her portrayal of Vicki was pivotal, setting the tone for the supernatural dangers in Mystic Falls and creating a lasting impression despite her limited screen time in the early seasons.

Ewell’s career has since demonstrated a conscious effort to explore different genres and formats, showcasing her versatility as an actress. This strategic diversification has kept her relevant and in the public eye, leveraging her foundational fame while building new topical authority.

From Daytime Drama to Sci-Fi Thriller

Before becoming a supernatural entity, Ewell was a familiar face on daytime television, playing Caitlin Ramirez on the long-running soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful. This role provided her with the foundational acting chops necessary for the fast-paced world of television.

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More recently, she has embraced the sci-fi and action genres. In 2021, she starred as 'Billy' in the film Agent Revelation, a role that required her to step into a high-stakes, action-oriented narrative.

She also had a recurring role in the reboot of another popular supernatural series, Roswell, New Mexico, as Nora Truman, further cementing her presence in The CW universe. Her ability to move between these distinct roles—from the vulnerable Vicki to the strong-willed Nora—speaks volumes about her range.

Directionally Challenged: The Podcast That Redefined Her Brand

Perhaps the most significant and current aspect of Kayla Ewell’s professional life is her highly successful podcast, Directionally Challenged, which she co-hosts with her former The Vampire Diaries co-star, Candice King (who played Caroline Forbes).

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The podcast launched from a place of genuine curiosity and a shared feeling of being "directionally challenged" in life after the end of their long-running series. It offers a candid, humorous, and deeply relatable look at navigating life’s transitions, career changes, and personal development.

This venture has allowed Ewell to connect with her audience in a more personal and authentic way, discussing topics far beyond the fictional drama of Mystic Falls. The show frequently features other celebrities, experts, and friends, providing listeners with a wide range of perspectives on modern life. The partnership between Ewell and Candice King has proven to be a powerful, fan-favorite collaboration, demonstrating a strong, enduring friendship that originated on the set of the vampire drama.

The Beautiful Reality of Motherhood and Family Life in 2025

Kayla Ewell's personal life has seen beautiful milestones, adding to her multi-faceted identity. She is married to actor Tanner Novlan, who is well-known for his role as Dr. John "Finn" Finnegan on The Bold and the Beautiful, bringing her career full circle back to the world of soap operas.

The couple are proud parents to two children, a daughter named Poppy and a son named Jones Douglas Novlan. The birth of their son, Jones, was a major headline, as he arrived seven weeks early in June 2022.

Ewell has been open about the challenges and profound joy of motherhood, often sharing glimpses of her family life on social media and discussing it on her podcast. This transparency about juggling a demanding career, her podcasting schedule, and raising two young children, including a premature baby, has resonated deeply with her audience, making her a relatable figure for working mothers everywhere.

Her family’s story, particularly the early arrival of Jones Douglas, has turned her personal life into an inspiration, showcasing resilience and strength. She and Tanner Novlan, who married in 2015, represent one of Hollywood's most stable and supportive partnerships, often attending industry events together.

Kayla Ewell’s Enduring Legacy and Future Projects

Despite her iconic character Vicki Donovan being killed off early in *The Vampire Diaries* series, Kayla Ewell's presence in the fan community has never waned. She remains a staple at fan conventions, such as Epic Cons, often appearing alongside other cast members like Michael Trevino, who played her on-screen brother, Matt Donovan.

Her consistent involvement in the fan world, combined with the success of *Directionally Challenged*, solidifies her enduring legacy. She has successfully leveraged her initial fame into a sustainable, multi-platform career that includes acting, producing content, and public speaking.

As of late 2025, Ewell continues to attend high-profile events, such as the An Unforgettable Evening Gala, keeping her in the media spotlight and confirming her active status in the industry. Her career trajectory is a perfect example of a modern Hollywood star who understands the power of connecting with an audience beyond the screen.

Fans can anticipate more projects from Ewell that blend her acting talent with her passion for candid conversation. Whether she is exploring a new character in a film or sharing life lessons with Candice King, Kayla Ewell remains a fresh, relevant, and compelling figure in the entertainment world, proving that her journey is far from over.