7 Shocking Ways Kat Graham Transformed Her Career After The Vampire Diaries (Latest 2025 Updates)

Katerina "Kat" Graham has masterfully navigated the transition from beloved supernatural star to a powerhouse actress, musician, and global activist, making 2024 and 2025 arguably the most prolific period of her career. The Swiss-born American talent, globally recognized for her eight-season run as the powerful witch Bonnie Bennett on The CW’s The Vampire Diaries, has consciously pivoted to projects that align with her evolving artistic and humanitarian values, proving she is far more than just a single iconic role.

As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, Graham is cementing her status as a multi-hyphenate force, earning major recognition for her work on-screen and off, including a prestigious TIME magazine honor and leading roles in high-profile films. This deep dive uncovers the seven most significant and surprising facets of her current career trajectory, providing the freshest, most up-to-date information on her latest movies, music, and powerful global impact.

Kat Graham: The Essential Biography and Profile

Katerina Alexandre Hartford Graham, known professionally as Kat Graham, has built a dynamic career spanning over two decades. Her background as a dancer, musician, and actress has allowed her to tackle diverse roles and creative ventures.

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• Full Name: Katerina Alexandre Hartford Graham
• Born: September 5, 1989
• Birthplace: Geneva, Switzerland
• Nationality: American (Swiss-born)
• Occupation: Actress, Singer, Dancer, Activist
• Known For: Playing Bonnie Bennett in The Vampire Diaries (2009–2017)
• Notable Film Roles: The Parent Trap (1998), 17 Again (2009), Honey 2 (2011), All Eyez on Me (2017) as Jada Pinkett
• Current Partner: Bryant Wood (as of 2025 updates)
• Estimated Net Worth (2025): Approximately $3 Million

1. Starring as a Fugitive in the High-Stakes Lifetime Thriller, If I Run

One of Kat Graham's most anticipated projects is the movie adaptation of Terri Blackstock's best-selling Christian suspense novel, If I Run. This Lifetime original movie is a major new direction for the actress, placing her at the center of a gripping, faith-driven mystery.

Graham takes on the lead role of Casey Cox, a woman who wakes up next to the corpse of her best friend and is immediately framed for the murder. Casey goes on the run, determined to uncover the truth and clear her name, leading to a high-stakes, cross-country chase. The film, directed by Michael M. Scott, is set to premiere on Saturday, August 2, 2025, on Lifetime. The movie explores profound themes of justice, faith, and the courage required to face overwhelming adversity, co-starring Evan Roderick and James Tupper.

2. Leading Tyler Perry’s Latest Prime Video Legal Drama, Duplicity

Further showcasing her versatility, Kat Graham recently starred in Tyler Perry’s Duplicity, which premiered on Amazon Prime Video. In a significant departure from her supernatural roots, Graham portrays a sharp, driven attorney, demonstrating her capability in complex, modern-day legal thrillers. The film's release in late 2024/early 2025 has cemented her standing as a go-to lead actress for major streaming platforms. Her role in Duplicity highlights a mature transition in her acting portfolio, moving into roles that demand intense dramatic performance and intellectual depth.

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3. Earning Global Recognition on the TIME100 Next List for Activism

Perhaps the most significant honor of her recent career is being named an honoree on the prestigious 2024 TIME100 Next list by TIME magazine. This list spotlights 100 emerging leaders who are shaping the future, and Graham was recognized not for her acting, but for her profound dedication to humanitarian causes. Her inclusion underscores the fact that her work as an activist is now on par with her artistic achievements, solidifying her status as a global influencer.

Her focus is largely on advocating for the more than 120 million people worldwide who are forced to flee their homes. This dedication is directly tied to her role as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, a position she leverages to raise awareness and funds for refugee support. In 2024, she performed live at the Nansen Refugee Award ceremony, using her platform to shine a light on the plight of displaced people. This blend of celebrity and committed advocacy is a core theme of her current professional identity.

4. The Surprise Sound of Her New EP, The Broken Hearts Club

Kat Graham’s music career has always run parallel to her acting, but her latest release, the 2024 EP titled The Broken Hearts Club, showcases a bold new sonic direction. The EP, which marks her second extended play and sixth overall music release, is a powerful exercise in genre-blending.

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Fans expecting traditional pop were surprised by the project's aggressive, yet deeply rhythmic style. Graham infuses elements of 80s pop synth wave with dark, driving industrial R&B, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and fiercely modern. The tracks on The Broken Hearts Club are a testament to her artistic independence and her willingness to experiment with complex, emotional soundscapes, further establishing her as a serious and versatile music artist.

5. An Unwavering Commitment to Fashion and High-Profile Appearances

Beyond the screen and studio, Kat Graham has become a fixture in the high-fashion world, regularly attending major events and fashion weeks globally. Her appearances at events like the 2024 Governors Awards in Hollywood and her attendance at shows during Paris Fashion Week are highly covered by the style press. She utilizes these moments to make bold fashion statements, often wearing designers who push boundaries, further cementing her image as a style icon and a visible presence outside of traditional movie promotion.

6. Exploring New Territory with Faith-Based Storytelling

The decision to lead a project like If I Run, which is explicitly based on a Christian suspense novel, signals a willingness to explore faith-driven storytelling that is often overlooked by mainstream Hollywood. This choice is a unique and strategic move, allowing her to connect with a new, massive audience demographic while also tackling complex, morally challenging narratives. By taking on the role of Casey Cox, Graham is actively participating in a growing trend of high-quality, faith-adjacent content.

7. Publicly Sharing Her Personal Journey and Future Plans

In a world where celebrity privacy is paramount, Kat Graham has been open about her personal life, including her relationship with her partner, Bryant Wood. Recent news updates have included details about her wedding plans, which are reportedly set for March 2025. This transparency has fostered a deeper connection with her fan base, who appreciate the glimpses into her life outside of her demanding professional schedule. Her willingness to share these milestones, from her engagement to the planning of her marriage, adds a relatable layer to her otherwise high-profile career as an actress, musician, and global activist.

In summary, Kat Graham is experiencing a profound career evolution. She has successfully leveraged the fame from The Vampire Diaries to launch a multifaceted career defined by artistic risk and humanitarian purpose. With major film roles like Tyler Perry’s Duplicity and If I Run, a distinct new musical identity in The Broken Hearts Club, and the global recognition of the TIME100 Next list, Graham is proving that her next chapter is her most compelling yet.