'Vampire Diaries' season 2 marathon begins tonight!

Image Credit: Quantrell Colbert/The CWIf you’ve been wanting to get into The Vampire Diaries, but that crowded Thursday at 8 p.m. time slot hasn’t allowed it, seize the opportunity to record this week’s 10-episode season 2 marathon beginning tonight on The CW. That’s two episodes each day, starting with the season 2 premiere. If you’re a newcomer and want a crash course on what you missed in season 1, read our 16-point primer gallery, and you’re good to go. You can also read our recaps (click here for season 1, and here for season 2).

Those of you who are caught up and awaiting the show’s Jan. 27 return, be sure to check out executive producers Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec breaking down last week’s midseason finale and looking ahead on our latest TV Insiders podcast (after Dalton Ross and Annie Barrett accuse me of “panting” during Michael Trevino’s shirtless scenes). Just click on the audio player below. The podcast is also now on iTunes. You can subscribe for free right here and take it with you on the go.

Follow Mandi on Twitter: @EWMandiBierly

More on The Vampire Diaries (spoiler alert for newbies!):

‘Vampire Diaries’ exclusive: Michael Trevino talks Tyler’s transformation, scenes with Damon and Stefan, and Jules’ motives

Recap of the midseason finale: The Howling

‘Vampire Diaries’ exclusive: Kevin Williamson talks his potential companion series that’s ‘full of scary, horrible murder and surprises’

TV Insiders podcast: ‘Vampire Diaries’ producers break down sexy cliffhanger episode

‘Vampire Diaries’ scoop: Candice Accola talks Tyler’s transformation (and Michael Trevino’s reward)

‘Vampire Diaries’ scoop: Ian Somerhalder talks this week’s episode and Damon’s humanity (and his own plan to save the planet)