
Freya Mikaelson
Appears In
The OriginalsSpecies
Witch
First Appearance
The Originals, Season 2
Occupation
Witch, Protector of the Mikaelson family
Creator
Julie Plec
Overview
Origin Story
Freya Mikaelson was born in the Viking age as the first child of Mikael and Esther. Due to a bargain Esther made with her sister Dahlia, the firstborn child of every generation in their bloodline belonged to Dahlia. When Freya was a young child, Dahlia took her, leading the family to believe Freya died of a plague. In reality, Dahlia raised Freya in secret, using powerful magic to keep her alive and under control. Dahlia placed herself and Freya in long periods of enchanted sleep between brief stretches of wakefulness, slowing their aging and extending their lives but robbing Freya of a normal existence. Under Dahlia, Freya was trained as a witch, subjected to strict discipline, and used as a conduit for Dahlia's power.
Personality
Freya is stoic, calm, and difficult to read, maintaining a composed exterior in most situations. She is highly intelligent, strategic, and curious, often taking the role of planner and spell-caster for her family. Deeply affected by lifelong trauma under Dahlia's control and the loss of her unborn child, she can be ruthless toward enemies but fiercely protective of loved ones. She is capable of moral ambiguity, performing dark magic and harsh tactics, but is fundamentally motivated by family loyalty.
Story Arc
Freya arrives in New Orleans during The Originals Season 2, initially mysterious and mistrusted by Klaus and the others. She reveals Dahlia's bargain and that she has been alive for centuries as Dahlia's unwilling protégé. Determined to destroy Dahlia and gain her freedom, Freya offers her help to the Mikaelsons. The Dahlia storyline culminates in a magical confrontation where Freya plays a pivotal role in defeating Dahlia, freeing herself and her family from the generational curse.
After Dahlia's defeat, Freya becomes the primary witch and magical protector of the Mikaelsons. She often mediates between her siblings, caught between Klaus' paranoia, Elijah's duty, and the others' resentment. Her loyalty is tested repeatedly, but she consistently chooses to stand with the family, especially when Hope is in danger. Freya develops a romantic relationship with Keelin, a werewolf doctor, which evolves from wary alliance to deep partnership. They eventually marry, marking a rare moment of happiness. Freya's earlier relationship with Mathias and the loss of their unborn child is a major emotional scar. Over the series, Freya shifts from a detached, weaponized witch to a more emotionally open character who seeks a future beyond constant war, particularly centered on Hope and her life with Keelin.
Powers & Abilities
Innate witchcraft
Spell-casting expertise (protection, binding, linking, channeling spells)
Channeling and siphoning external power sources
Combat magic (offensive and defensive spells)
Ancient language and runic knowledge
Strategic planning and tactical thinking
Equipment & Signature Items
Grimoires
Magical talismans and wards
Relationships
Dahlia
EnemyFreya's aunt and captor, who controlled her for centuries.
Klaus Mikaelson
FamilyInitially mistrustful, but later allies and family; Freya protects Hope.
Elijah Mikaelson
FamilyElijah offers trust early and works closely with Freya.
Rebekah Mikaelson
FamilySupportive sibling bond over shared trauma.
Kol Mikaelson
FamilyProfessional respect and magical collaboration.
Keelin
Love InterestFreya's wife, a werewolf doctor who helps her heal.
Hope Mikaelson
FamilyFreya's niece and protégé, whom she protects and mentors.
Finn Mikaelson
FamilySibling with complex dynamics due to family loyalties.
Memorable Quotes
“I will not be Dahlia's weapon any longer.”
“Family is worth any sacrifice.”
“I can turn the rest of the family against you, Klaus.”
“I've spent a thousand years being controlled. I will not let that happen again.”
Portrayed By
Key Appearances
The Originals
Reception & Legacy
Freya is regarded as one of the strongest witches in the franchise and a crucial addition to the Mikaelson family mythos. Her character expands the backstory with the firstborn curse and Dahlia, deepening the lore. Her relationship with Keelin is celebrated as important queer representation, and she is a popular subject of fan fiction and fan art. Fans appreciate her stoic demeanor and powerful magic.
Interesting Facts and Legends
Freya is the eldest Mikaelson sibling, older than Finn, Elijah, Klaus, Kol, Rebekah, and Henrik.
The family believed she died of a plague in childhood; her return is a major twist in Season 2.
She was used by Dahlia as a living conduit and weapon for centuries.
Freya is bisexual, with relationships with both Mathias and Keelin.
Her marriage to Keelin is one of the few same-sex marriages depicted in the Vampire Diaries universe.
She effectively takes over Esther's role as the family's primary witch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Freya Mikaelson?
Does Freya Mikaelson die?
Who plays Freya Mikaelson?
Is Freya Mikaelson a villain?
Who does Freya Mikaelson end up with?
Keywords
Sources
Character Info
- Species
- Witch
- First Appearance
- The Originals Season 2
- Portrayed by
- Riley Voelkel
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