**Candice King, an American actress and singer, has captivated audiences worldwide, most notably through her iconic portrayal of Caroline Forbes on The CW's hit series, *The Vampire Diaries*. Beyond her memorable acting roles, King has cultivated a diverse career, spanning music, web series, and a commitment to various social causes, consistently demonstrating a remarkable ability to "pivot" and evolve in both her professional and personal life.** Her journey is a testament to versatility and resilience, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and an inspiration to many. From her early days as a budding musician to becoming a household name in television, Candice King has navigated the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood with grace and determination. This article delves into her fascinating career trajectory, personal milestones, and the underlying philosophy that drives her continuous growth, offering a comprehensive look at the woman behind the beloved characters. *** ## Table of Contents * [Candice King: A Multifaceted Talent's Journey](#candice-king-a-multifaceted-talents-journey) * [Early Life and Roots](#early-life-and-roots) * [The Artist's First Note: A Music Career](#the-artists-first-note-a-music-career) * [The Breakthrough Role: Caroline Forbes in The Vampire Diaries](#the-breakthrough-role-caroline-forbes-in-the-vampire-diaries) * [Beyond Mystic Falls: Expanding Her Acting Horizons](#beyond-mystic-falls-expanding-her-acting-horizons) * [Candice King's Personal Life: Love, Family, and New Beginnings](#candice-kings-personal-life-love-family-and-new-beginnings) * [Previous Marriage and Family](#previous-marriage-and-family) * [A New Chapter: Engagement to Steven Krueger](#a-new-chapter-engagement-to-steven-krueger) * [Advocating for Change: Candice King's Philanthropic Efforts](#advocating-for-change-candice-kings-philanthropic-efforts) * [The Philosophy of "Pivot": Candice King's Career Trajectory](#the-philosophy-of-pivot-candice-kings-career-trajectory) * [Looking Ahead: What's Next for Candice King?](#looking-ahead-whats-next-for-candice-king) * [Heartbreak and Empathy: Acknowledging Loss](#heartbreak-and-empathy-acknowledging-loss) *** ## Candice King: A Multifaceted Talent's Journey **Candice Rene King (née Accola)**, born on May 13, 1987, in Houston, Texas, is a true American talent. Her journey into the limelight began not on a television set, but with a microphone in hand, showcasing a versatility that would define her career. Her early life laid the foundation for a future in the arts, nurtured by a supportive family background. ### Early Life and Roots Born to Carolyn (Clark) and Kevin Accola, Candice King's upbringing provided a unique blend of scientific rigor and creative freedom. Her mother, Carolyn, was an environmental engineer before becoming a homemaker, bringing a grounded perspective to the family. Her father, Kevin Accola, worked as a cardiothoracic surgeon, a demanding profession that speaks to a dedication to craft and precision. This blend of backgrounds likely instilled in Candice a balanced approach to her own career—a pursuit of passion tempered with discipline. Her roots in Houston, Texas, contribute to the narrative of an artist who emerged from diverse influences, ready to make her mark on the world. ### The Artist's First Note: A Music Career While Candice King achieved widespread fame as an actor, her artistic journey first began in the realm of music. Long before she graced the screens as a vampire, she was honing her vocal talents and crafting songs. In December 2006, King independently released her debut album, *It's Always the Innocent Ones*, in the United States. This early venture showcased her songwriting abilities and vocal prowess, marking her initial foray into the entertainment industry. The decision to release her album independently speaks volumes about her entrepreneurial spirit and determination to share her art on her own terms. This foundational experience in music provided her with a unique perspective and a broader understanding of the creative process, which undoubtedly enriched her later acting performances. It was this early passion for singing that paved the way for her eventual pivot into the world of acting, demonstrating her innate drive to explore different facets of her artistic expression. ## The Breakthrough Role: Caroline Forbes in The Vampire Diaries The trajectory of Candice King's career took a significant turn when she landed the role of Caroline Forbes in The CW's supernatural drama, *The Vampire Diaries*. This super-hit series catapulted her to stardom, making her a household name and solidifying her place in pop culture. Caroline Forbes, initially portrayed as a somewhat insecure and often superficial high school student, underwent one of the most compelling character developments in the show's eight-season run. Candice King's portrayal of Caroline was nuanced and deeply empathetic. She expertly navigated Caroline's transformation from a human teenager into a vampire, showcasing the character's journey through heartbreak, resilience, strength, and unwavering loyalty. Fans resonated deeply with Caroline's growth, her fierce protectiveness of her friends, and her journey to finding self-acceptance and love. King's ability to convey such a wide range of emotions, from vulnerability to formidable power, earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. The success of *The Vampire Diaries* was immense, creating a global phenomenon and establishing a dedicated fandom that followed the lives of its characters with fervent interest. For Candice King, this role was not just a job; it was a defining period that allowed her to showcase her acting chops, build lasting relationships with her castmates, and connect with millions of viewers. Her performance as Caroline Forbes remains a cornerstone of her career, often cited as one of the most beloved characters in the supernatural teen drama genre. It was through Caroline that Candice King truly walked up the stardom status, leaving an indelible mark on television history. ## Beyond Mystic Falls: Expanding Her Acting Horizons While Caroline Forbes remains a pivotal role, Candice King has consistently sought to expand her acting horizons beyond the confines of Mystic Falls. Her career is a testament to her desire for diverse roles and new challenges, showcasing her versatility across various platforms. She has appeared in films, web series, and other television shows, demonstrating a commitment to growth and exploration in her craft. One notable recent project that highlights her continued evolution is the web series *We Were Liars*. This project, streaming all episodes now on Prime, marks an exciting venture for Candice King. She has expressed her enthusiasm for the series, noting, "I had heard about *We Were Liars*, I want to say, in 2020 knowing that Carina and Julie had really wanted to bring this book to TV, and this was a project that they were both very." This quote underscores her interest in meaningful projects and her appreciation for the creative vision behind them. Her involvement in *We Were Liars* allows her to delve into a different genre and character, showcasing her range beyond the supernatural. Furthermore, fans of *The Vampire Diaries* universe will recall her appearances in the spin-off series, *The Originals*. As an *Originals* alum, Candice King reprised her role as Caroline Forbes, seamlessly integrating her character into the new narrative and maintaining the beloved connection with the show's expanded lore. This demonstrated her ability to adapt her iconic character to different storytelling environments, further cementing her legacy within the franchise. Beyond these well-known roles, Candice King continues to explore new opportunities. For those eager to see her full body of work, it's easy to find where to watch Candice King's latest movies and TV shows, as she consistently adds new projects to her impressive filmography. Her ongoing pursuit of varied roles ensures that her audience always has something new and exciting to anticipate from this dynamic actress. ## Candice King's Personal Life: Love, Family, and New Beginnings The personal life of Candice King has seen its share of significant milestones and changes, reflecting a journey of love, family, and new beginnings. Like her career, her personal path has been marked by evolution and the courage to embrace new chapters. ### Previous Marriage and Family Candice King was previously married to musician Joe King, known for his work with the band The Fray. Their relationship was a public aspect of her life for several years. However, in a significant personal development, it was announced that Candice King had filed for divorce. The Vampire Diaries alum, commonly known as Candice King, is no longer with The Fray guitarist Joe King. This period marked a transition in her personal life, as she navigated the complexities of separation and moved towards a new phase. While the data does not specify children from this marriage, public records indicate she has two daughters with Joe King. However, sticking to the provided data, the focus remains on the marriage and subsequent divorce filing. ### A New Chapter: Engagement to Steven Krueger In a joyful announcement that captured the attention of fans, Candice King revealed her engagement to actor Steven Krueger. The news broke on May 14, when *The Originals* alum, 36, and *The Vampire Diaries* alum, 38, announced their engagement on Instagram. Candice shared her excitement, reflecting on life's journey: "The privilege of getting older is much sweeter knowing I..." This sentiment suggests a deep appreciation for personal growth and the wisdom that comes with experience, making her new relationship even more meaningful. The engagement came after they had been engaged for a couple of weeks prior to the public announcement, indicating a desire to cherish their private moments before sharing the news with the world. Wedding planning is now underway, with updates occasionally shared. While chatting with *The New York Post* at the 2025 Emmys Pickleball Slam, Steven Krueger gave an update on how wedding planning is going with fiancée Candice King. He also revealed that "most" of the planning was progressing smoothly, hinting at the exciting preparations for their future together. This new chapter with Steven Krueger marks a significant and happy development in Candice King's personal life, symbolizing a fresh start and a promising future. ## Advocating for Change: Candice King's Philanthropic Efforts Beyond her achievements in acting and music, Candice King has consistently used her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, demonstrating a profound commitment to social responsibility. Her philanthropic efforts highlight her role as not just an entertainer, but also a compassionate individual dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. One of the most prominent causes Candice King supports is gay rights. Her vocal advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality underscores her belief in fairness and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. In line with this, she also actively supports the "It Gets Better Project." This project is a global movement that aims to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth around the world, providing messages of hope and demonstrating that life improves beyond the challenges of adolescence. Candice King's involvement with such initiatives is particularly impactful due to her widespread recognition from *The Vampire Diaries*. Her voice reaches millions of fans, many of whom are young and impressionable, making her endorsement of these causes incredibly powerful. By lending her name and influence, she helps to foster a more inclusive and understanding environment, sending a clear message that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Her dedication to these efforts showcases her character and her desire to contribute meaningfully to societal progress, reinforcing her image as a truly admirable public figure. ## The Philosophy of "Pivot": Candice King's Career Trajectory A recurring theme in Candice King's approach to life and career is her philosophy of "pivot." She has openly stated that she is always looking to "pivot" in life and with her career, but importantly, "not in the Ross Geller way." This humorous reference to the *Friends* character's infamous struggles with moving furniture perfectly encapsulates her agile and intentional approach to change. Unlike Ross's frantic and often clumsy attempts, Candice King's pivots are deliberate, strategic, and aimed at growth. This philosophy is evident throughout her professional journey. Her initial pivot from a burgeoning music career to a full-fledged acting career is a prime example. While many artists might stick to one path, Candice King recognized an opportunity to explore a different creative outlet, ultimately leading to her breakthrough role as Caroline Forbes. This was not a desperate leap but a calculated move that broadened her artistic scope. Even within her acting career, she has sought diverse roles, from long-running network dramas to web series like *We Were Liars*. This continuous exploration prevents stagnation and allows her to develop new skills and challenge herself in different genres and formats. It reflects a proactive mindset, always seeking the next opportunity for learning and expansion. Beyond her career, this "pivot" mentality likely extends to her personal life as well. Navigating significant life changes, such as her divorce and subsequent engagement, requires a similar adaptability and willingness to embrace new beginnings. It speaks to a resilient spirit that views change not as an obstacle, but as an opportunity for evolution and new experiences. Candice King's ability to consistently pivot, both professionally and personally, is a testament to her dynamic nature and her unwavering commitment to growth and self-reinvention. ## Looking Ahead: What's Next for Candice King? As fans often wonder, "What is she doing now?", Candice King continues to forge ahead, embracing new projects and personal milestones. Her career is characterized by an ongoing pursuit of diverse roles and creative ventures, ensuring that she remains a relevant and engaging presence in the entertainment industry. Currently, her work on the web series *We Were Liars*, which is now streaming all episodes, offers a fresh perspective on her acting capabilities. This project allows her to delve into a narrative that differs significantly from her previous work on *The Vampire Diaries* and *The Originals*, showcasing her versatility. Fans can find where to watch Candice King's latest movies and TV shows, indicating her continuous engagement in new productions. Beyond her professional endeavors, her recent engagement to Steven Krueger signals an exciting new chapter in her personal life. The planning of their wedding is underway, a joyful event that speaks to her desire for happiness and stability. Candice King has expressed a profound appreciation for life's journey, stating, "The privilege of getting older is much sweeter knowing I." This reflective outlook suggests a contentment with her path and an eagerness to embrace the future, both personally and professionally. Whether it's through new acting roles, exploring different creative avenues, or simply enjoying her personal life, Candice King is poised for continued success and fulfillment. Her career has always been about evolution, and it's clear that she will continue to "pivot" in meaningful ways, surprising and delighting her audience with each new endeavor. Her journey remains one of constant growth, making her future endeavors highly anticipated by her dedicated fanbase. ## Heartbreak and Empathy: Acknowledging Loss Even amidst her own career advancements and personal joys, Candice King has consistently shown a deep sense of empathy and connection to her professional family. This was particularly evident when she experienced heartbreak over the death of a fellow *TVD* star. Candice noted that she was heartbroken to think about the loved ones Annie (likely Annie Wersching, who played Lily Salvatore in *The Vampire Diaries*) has left behind. This public display of grief and compassion highlights Candice King's genuine nature and the strong bonds she formed during her time on *The Vampire Diaries*. It speaks volumes about her ability to connect with others on a human level, extending her care beyond the professional realm. Such moments underscore her authenticity and her capacity for deep feeling, making her not just a talented actress but also a relatable and compassionate individual in the eyes of her fans. Her acknowledgment of loss and her empathy for those left behind further solidifies her image as a grounded and caring public figure. *** ## Conclusion Candice King's journey is a compelling narrative of talent, resilience, and continuous evolution. From her early days as a singer, releasing her debut album *It's Always the Innocent Ones*, to her meteoric rise as Caroline Forbes in *The Vampire Diaries*, she has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to captivate audiences. Her career has seen her pivot seamlessly between music, iconic television roles, films, and web series like *We Were Liars*, always seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth. Beyond her professional achievements, Candice King's personal life reflects a similar journey of transformation, from her previous marriage to her exciting new chapter with fiancé Steven Krueger. Her commitment to philanthropic causes, particularly her support for gay rights and the It Gets Better Project, showcases her dedication to making a positive impact on the world. This blend of professional ambition, personal growth, and social consciousness defines who Candice King is today. She embodies the philosophy of always looking to "pivot," embracing change with grace and purpose. What's your favorite Candice King role or performance? Share your thoughts on her incredible career journey in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you. For more insights into the lives of your favorite stars and the latest in entertainment, explore other articles on our site.
