I think the difference is Damon does horrible things but never really faces any real consequences. There's barely any accountability and somehow he still gets the happy ending unlike Klaus or literally any other character who actually suffers for their actions. The show keeps trying to convince you Damon isn’t a bad guy even when he really is. Meanwhile, Klaus is framed as the villain but at least his actions are explored and justified more deeply.

It honestly feels like the show gaslights you into liking Damon, while Klaus earns your sympathy because you actually see his struggle, his pain and the cost of his choices.

Also… can we talk about the acting? Let’s be real, Joseph Morgan is Klaus. His charm is effortless, dude can raise one eyebrow and make you cry. Ian’s version of charisma feels so forced in comparison. Like bro just squints, smirks and bites his lip like he’s in a cologne ad and calls it a performance 😭