Much before The Vampire Diaries Season 8 premiered, there were talks about Nina Dobrev returning to the series and despite the season reaching the midway mark, there is no news of Elena coming back. On the contrary, Alexandra Chando, who looks like Dobrev, has been cast for the current season. So, is she a replacement for Dobrev?

It is being said that the casting of Alexandra Chando has been done with the motive of replacing her. Thus, she might not return for Season 8 of The Vampire Diaries, reports Buddy TV. However, Chando will not be playing Elena.

Rather, she has been roped in to essay a doctor named Tara, who will be working closely with Damon and Stefan. She will make her debut in Episode 8 that has been titled We Have History Together.

This episode has been directed by Ian Somerhalder and the official synopsis states that the Salvatore brothers attend an anger management support group looking for their next victim. They also continue their services to Cade even as they test the morals of young doctor Tara. As of now, it is still not clear how many episodes Chando will star in.

In related news, Bonnie (Kat Graham) will have some major storyline after episode 8. She will return to Mystic Falls to reunite with her friends. Miss Mystic Falls teaser also reveals her to be wearing a vile of Enzo's blood.

This gives Caroline the impression that she wants to undergo a major transformation. So, could this transformation lead to her death and pave way for Elena's return?

If fans remember, it is only Bonnie's death that can bring back Elena from her sleep and since Elena aka Nina Dobrev is expected to return for The Vampire Diaries Season 8.  This also happens to be the last season, Bonnie's death looks like a possibility.

After all, Julie Plec recently said recently that Tyler Lockwood is not the only character who would bid goodbye to the show, reports TVLine. She used the words painful and terrible.

The Vampire Diaries Season 8 returns on Jan. 13, 2017 on The CW at 8 p.m.