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    Freya Mikaelson

    Freya Mikaelson

    Appears In

    The Originals

    Species

    Witch

    First Appearance

    The Originals, Season 2

    Occupation

    Witch, Protector of the Mikaelson family

    Creator

    Julie Plec

    Community

    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

    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?
    Freya Mikaelson is the eldest Mikaelson sibling, a powerful witch who was taken by her aunt Dahlia as a child and later returns to her family in The Originals.
    Does Freya Mikaelson die?
    No, Freya survives the events of The Originals and is alive at the end of the series.
    Who plays Freya Mikaelson?
    Freya is portrayed by actress Riley Voelkel in The Originals.
    Is Freya Mikaelson a villain?
    No, Freya is a protagonist. She initially appears mysterious but is ultimately a loyal and protective member of the Mikaelson family.
    Who does Freya Mikaelson end up with?
    Freya marries Keelin, a werewolf doctor, and they have a happy relationship.

    Keywords

    Freya MikaelsonThe OriginalswitchMikaelsonRiley Voelkel

    Sources

    Character Info

    Species
    Witch
    First Appearance
    The Originals Season 2
    Portrayed by
    Riley Voelkel

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