As the Vampire Diaries Season 3 DVD set hits shelves, we get a first look at one of the extras. In this clip, we learn that the idea of showing Stefan in his darkest days was a popular one for both the writers room and Paul Wesley.

It’s always interesting to find out that an actor and the writers had the same idea at the same time. In this video, we learn that the insanely talented writing staff had been thoughtfully planning Stefan’s descent into his Ripper persona throughout Season 2, and at the same time, Paul Wesley was clamoring to show Stefan’s dark side.

Cue Season 3 and we get to see Stefan and Damon reverse roles. Stefan’s rapid descent from good guy to Ripper caused Damon to step up as Elena’s protector and ultimately defend the entire Mystic Falls crew in his absence, displaying that while a ‘good’ character can fall so far from grace, a ‘bad’ character can also rise to the occasion.

What may be the most remarkable part is hearing the entire cast give their opinions on Stefan and his dark side. This video provides us with great insight into just how intensely this cast understands the world they inhabit and the characters they portray. Stefan’s change affected each character of the show differently, so to hear each actor talk about this dramatic turn of events gives us unique insight into how they prepare for their own characters’ struggles.

Make sure to check out The Vampire Diaries Season 3 DVD for more extras and behind the scenes information. Season 4 of The Vampire Diaries premieres on October 11th, 2012 at 8pm.