L.J. Smith, the beloved author of The Vampire Diaries novels, passed away on March 8, 2025, at the age of 66.
Smith died in Walnut Creek, California, after battling a rare autoimmune disease for over a decade, according to her partner, Julie Divola, who spoke to The New York Times. The author’s death was also confirmed through a statement on her website.
Born Lisa Jane Smith on September 4, 1958, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Smith was raised in Villa Park, California. Her pen name was inspired by her two favorite fantasy authors, J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts in experimental psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1982.
After teaching kindergarten and special education, she turned her focus to writing, producing more than 24 books in her career.
Her most iconic work, The Vampire Diaries series, was a groundbreaking young adult saga that began with the publication of its first book in 1991.
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The series centered on high school student Elena Gilbert and her tumultuous love triangle with vampire brothers Damon and Stefan Salvatore.
Smith’s books gained a cult following, especially after being adapted into a hit CW television show in 2009, starring Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder, and Paul Wesley.
Despite the success of her novels, Smith faced challenges within the publishing world. She was unexpectedly replaced by a ghostwriter after her first Vampire Diaries books, a setback that led to a long break from writing.
However, Smith returned to writing in the 2010s, even re-engaging with her characters through fan fiction.
Smith continued to write until her passing, despite her ongoing health struggles. Her agent, John Silbersack, shared with The New York Times that Smith was dedicated to her craft until the very end, saying, “She was fiercely dedicated to continuing to write.”
Smith is survived by her partner, Julie Divola. Her legacy lives on through the Vampire Diaries books and the TV show that captivated fans worldwide.
