Though the Jan. 21 episode was already in the bag, E! reports that an “11th hour reshoot” has given Kirshner the opportunity to play Isobel, the wife of Alaric Saltzman (Matt Davis) — who, in addition to being everyone’s favorite vampire-hunting history teacher, has mentioned being a widower.

There’s no word on whether Isobel will be playing a living or (un)dead character, but since the role is recurring, it certainly incites questions about whether she’ll be returning as Mandy for the eighth season of “24.”

Weigh in on Kirshner’s casting in the comments below!  Are you psyched for Isobel’s arrival in Mystic Falls, or would you rather her stick to “24″?

– Carina MacKenzie (follow me on Twitter @cadlymack)