"Buffy the Vampire Slayer" star Sarah Michelle Gellar nearly returned to the world of undead for a surprising role in "The Vampire Diaries." The actress was offered the role of fan-favorite Rose, who was eventually played by Lauren Cohan.

Showrunner Kevin Williamson, recalled that the offer to the "Buffy" actress was the only time his vampire series tried for "stunt casting," only to receive a pass from the actress. A role that would have seen Gellar going from slaying vampires to being one herself.

According to Williamson, Gellar was "very appreciative but just said no" to the offer, though he describes the casting as one of his "pipe dreams." Approximately a year after Rose debuted on "The Vampire Diaries," Gellar took her shot at leading another hit series with the quickly-canceled drama "The Ringer."