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    Vincent Griffith

    Vincent Griffith

    Appears In

    The Originals

    Species

    Witch

    First Appearance

    The Originals, Season 2, Episode 4: "Live and Let Die"

    Occupation

    Regent of the Nine Covens (formerly), Witch

    Creator

    Julie Plec

    Community

    Overview

    Origin Story

    Vincent Griffith was born in New Orleans in the 1980s into a family of powerful witches, described as some of the meanest witches the city had ever known. Raised within the Tremé Coven, he learned magic from a young age but initially showed little interest in the supernatural world, preferring a normal life. He attended college and held a regular job, trying to balance his mundane existence with his witch heritage. His life took a dramatic turn when the Original vampire Finn Mikaelson, seeking a powerful vessel, possessed Vincent's body on orders from his mother Esther. During this possession, Vincent was forced to wear Finn's aristocratic clothing and lost control of his own body for a time.

    Personality

    Vincent is pragmatic and fiercely protective of his fellow witches, often putting their safety above all else. He can be blunt and confrontational, especially when dealing with the Mikaelson family, whom he distrusts deeply. Despite his power, he is not power-hungry; he would rather avoid magic and live a quiet life, but circumstances repeatedly force him into leadership. He has a dry sense of humor and is not afraid to speak his mind, even to ancient vampires. Some view him as a coward or traitor for his shifting alliances, but his actions are driven by a desire to protect his community rather than personal gain.

    Story Arc

    Initially introduced as a reluctant witch possessed by Finn Mikaelson, Vincent eventually regains control of his body and begins to embrace his magical heritage. He becomes a key figure in the New Orleans witch community, rising to the position of Regent of the Nine Covens. Throughout the series, he struggles with the Mikaelsons' tendency to use and abuse witches, leading to several confrontations with Klaus. He threatens war if the witches are attacked again, declaring himself a personal enemy of Klaus. Over time, Vincent becomes a more confident leader, learning to channel his immense power and use it to defend his people. Though he often clashes with the Mikaelsons, he occasionally allies with them against greater threats, such as the Hollow. By the end of the series, Vincent survives and continues to watch over the witches of New Orleans.

    Powers & Abilities

    Extremely powerful witch

    Spellcasting

    Channeling large amounts of power

    Master of stealth and subterfuge

    Moving through shadows undetected

    Precision strikes

    Relationships

    Memorable Quotes

    Let me tell you something, if you come after my witches again it is going to be a war, and I don't mean a war between you and the covens; I mean a war between you and me.
    The witches are done being on call for you. All you know how to do is use and abuse. You treat us like we're pawns... No more. But congrats. You made it back to the top of the food chain.
    I'm not interested in being a pawn in your little game.
    You want to know what I think? I think you're all a bunch of entitled, bloodsucking parasites.
    I'm a witch. I don't need a weapon.

    Portrayed By

    Key Appearances

    The Originals (2014-2018)

    Reception & Legacy

    Vincent Griffith is a fan-favorite character within The Originals fandom, though often considered underrated. Viewers praise Yusuf Gatewood's portrayal for bringing depth and charisma to the role. Many fans appreciate Vincent as a powerful witch who stands up to the Original vampires, representing the strength and independence of the New Orleans witch community. His confrontations with Klaus are among the most memorable moments of the series. However, some critics find his shifting alliances frustrating, labeling him a coward or traitor. Despite this, his popularity remains strong, with a popularity rank of 3078 and a score of 1.92 as of mid-2026.

    Interesting Facts and Legends

    Vincent's body was chosen by Esther Mikaelson as a vessel for Finn because it was powerful; a weaker body was given to Kol.

    His nicknames include 'Vince' (from Eva), 'Casanova' (from Josh), and 'Mr. Buzzkill' or 'Vin' (from Freya).

    Actor Yusuf Gatewood's performance is widely praised by fans, who consider Vincent one of the most underrated characters on the show.

    Vincent's clothing style changes dramatically when possessed by Finn, from casual hoodies and leather jackets to aristocratic button-down shirts and sweater-vests.

    He is one of the few witches to openly defy Klaus Mikaelson and survive.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is Vincent Griffith?
    Vincent Griffith is a powerful witch and former Regent of the Nine Covens in New Orleans, a main character on the TV series The Originals.
    Does Vincent Griffith die?
    No, Vincent survives the events of The Originals. He is alive at the end of the series.
    Who plays Vincent Griffith?
    Vincent Griffith is portrayed by actor Yusuf Gatewood.
    Is Vincent Griffith a villain?
    No, Vincent is a protagonist. He often opposes the Mikaelson family but fights to protect the witches of New Orleans.
    Who does Vincent Griffith end up with?
    Vincent does not end up in a romantic relationship by the series finale. He was previously married to Eva Sinclair, but they are divorced.

    Keywords

    witchregentnew orleansthe originalstreme coven

    Sources

    Character Info

    Species
    Witch
    Occupation
    Regent of the Nine Covens (formerly)
    Status
    Alive

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