The Vampire Diaries will officially end after its forthcoming eighth season, but fans hope actress Nina Dobrev will return.

The news about the supernatural show ending was confirmed during its San Diego Comic-Con panel on Saturday.

Executive producer Julie Plec said: “We have all discussed it and we have made the decision that this is it.”

Vampire Diaries star Ian Somerhalder (Chris Pizzello/AP)
Vampire Diaries star Ian Somerhalder (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Stars Ian Somerhalder, Paul Wesley, Kat Graham, Candice King, Zach Roerig, Matt Davis and Michael Malarkey were on hand to offer a preview of the final season. They were joined by executive producers Kevin Williamson and Julie.

On social media, fans have already started speculating as to whether Nina, who played Elena Gilbert full time until 2015, will be back for the finale.

In a video which has been uploaded to YouTube, the cast and producers of The Vampire Diaries said goodbye to their fans.

Showrunner Kevin, who also created Dawson’s Creek, said: “Thank you for being part of our family as we begin season eight, our final vampire journey.”

He added: “We promise you adventure, passion and even a little danger.”

The cast spoke with warmth about their experience on the series as clips of past episodes accompanied their messages.

The near nine-minute video opens with the words: “For the past seven years, you’ve invited us into your homes. We’ve gotten to know each other. We’ve become friends. We’ve become a family. And we’ve fallen madly in love.”

The farewell video concludes with the cast thanking viewers for their support over the years.

Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley (Chris Pizzello/AP)
Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Broadcast on ITV2, The Vampire Diaries airs on The CW network in the US. Adapted from the books by LJ Smith, the series revolves around two vampire brothers.

Season eight will premiere on The CW on October 21.