The O.C. season 1

The season follows the Cohen and Cooper families, and high school sophomore Ryan Atwood, described as "a troubled teen from the wrong side of the tracks" who is thrust into the wealthy, harbor-front community of Newport Beach, Orange County, California and "will forever change the lives of the residents".{{Cite web |title=The O.C. |url=http://www2.warnerbros.com/web/television/jump_page/index.jsp?id=tv_theoc |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080514052810/http://www2.warnerbros.com/web/television/jump_page/index.jsp?id=tv_theoc |archive-date=May 14, 2008 |access-date=June 26, 2010 |publisher=Warner Bros.}}

{{See also|List of The O.C. characters}}

{{col-begin}}

{{col-3}}

• Peter Gallagher as Sandy Cohen (27 episodes)
• Kelly Rowan as Kirsten Cohen (27 episodes)
• Benjamin McKenzie as Ryan Atwood (27 episodes)
• Mischa Barton as Marissa Cooper (27 episodes)
• Adam Brody as Seth Cohen (27 episodes)
• Chris Carmack as Luke Ward (20 episodes)
• Tate Donovan as Jimmy Cooper (24 episodes)
• Melinda Clarke as Julie Cooper (episode 14 onwards; recurring ep. 1–13) (23 episodes)
• Rachel Bilson as Summer Roberts (episode 14 onwards; recurring ep. 1–13) (27 episodes)

{{col-3}}

• Alan Dale as Caleb Nichol (14 episodes)
• Samaire Armstrong as Anna Stern (13 episodes)
• Amanda Righetti as Hailey Nichol (10 episodes)
• Navi Rawat as Theresa Diaz (8 episodes)
• Ashley Hartman as Holly Ficher (6 episodes)
• Taylor Handley as Oliver Trask (6 episodes)
• Shailene Woodley as Kaitlin Cooper (6 episodes)
• Bonnie Somerville as Rachel Hoffman (5 episodes)
• Kim Oja as Taryn Baker (4 episodes)
• Rosalind Chao as Dr Kim (3 episodes)

{{col-end}}

{{See also|List of The O.C. episodes}}

{{Episode table |total_width=99 |background=#FB673A |overall= |season= |title= |director= |writer= |airdate= |prodcode= |viewers= |country=U.S. |episodes=

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=1

|EpisodeNumber2=1

|Title=Premiere

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|8|5}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Doug Liman

|Viewers=7.46{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41426865/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Aug. 4-10)|date=August 13, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=April 29, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=475197

|ShortSummary=Just after Ryan escapes jail time and is kicked out by his mother, his attorney, Sandy Cohen, brings him home, to the dismay of his wife, Kirsten. Ryan meets their son, Seth, and other Newport teenagers who lead him to trouble, making Kirsten think again about letting Ryan stay in their home. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=2

|EpisodeNumber2=2

|Title=The Model Home

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|8|12}}

|WrittenBy={{StoryTeleplay|s=Allan Heinberg & Josh Schwartz|t=Josh Schwartz}}

|DirectedBy=Doug Liman

|Viewers=7.86{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41425778/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Aug. 11-17)|date=August 22, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=April 29, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176501

|ShortSummary=Marissa and Seth convince Ryan not to leave Newport, and hide him in one of Kirsten's vacant model homes. When Luke confronts Ryan about his relationship with Marissa, their fights ends up setting the model home on fire, getting them both arrested. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=3

|EpisodeNumber2=3

|Title=The Gamble

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|8|19}}

|WrittenBy=Jane Espenson

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=7.96{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41424873/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Aug. 18-24)|date=August 27, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=April 29, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176502

|ShortSummary=Sandy comes to Ryan's rescue once again. Kirsten decides to invite Dawn to an elite Casino Night, but she gets lost in the sauce, disappointing Ryan. Dawn believes Ryan is better off with the Cohens, leaving him with Sandy and Kirsten. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=4

|EpisodeNumber2=4

|Title=The Debut

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|8|26}}

|WrittenBy=Allan Heinberg & Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Daniel Attias

|Viewers=8.65{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41424989/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Aug. 25-31)|date=September 5, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=April 29, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176503

|ShortSummary=Now that Ryan is staying with the Cohens, he must attend the Cotillion Ball, where Newport's finest young ladies enter society. Luke's jealousy results in Ryan escorting Marissa. Jimmy becomes a suspect of a fraud investigation and Holly's dad decides to confront him at the Ball in front of everyone. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=5

|EpisodeNumber2=5

|Title=The Outsider

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|9|2}}

|WrittenBy=Melissa Rosenberg

|DirectedBy=Jesús Salvador Treviño

|Viewers=9.13{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41426588/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Sept. 1-7)|date=September 10, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=May 9, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176504

|ShortSummary=Ryan gets a job and meets Donnie, a Newport teen from Corona. Seth decides to invite Donnie to Holly's beach party, but his attendance ends with Luke getting shot. Julie tells Jimmy she wants a divorce.|LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=6

|EpisodeNumber2=6

|Title=The Girlfriend

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|9|9}}

|WrittenBy={{StoryTeleplay|s=Debra J. Fisher & Erica Messer|t=Josh Schwartz}}

|DirectedBy=Steve Robman

|Viewers=9.09{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41426205/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Sept. 8-14)|date=September 17, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=May 9, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176505

|ShortSummary=Kirsten's father, Caleb Nichol, comes to town with his new 24-year-old girlfriend, Gabrielle. Marissa isn't ready to pick between Luke and Ryan, but when she walks in on Ryan with Gabrielle, she chooses Luke. Summer's growing feelings for Seth begin to show. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=7

|EpisodeNumber2=7

|Title=The Escape

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|9|16}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Sanford Bookstaver

|Viewers=8.77{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41424356/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Sept. 15-21)|date=September 24, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=May 9, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176506

|ShortSummary=Marissa doesn't take her parents' divorce well, and when she finds Luke with Holly during an end of summer trip to Tijuana, she's found passed out in an alley due to a drug/alcohol overdose. Kirsten, upset that Sandy is considering the job, finds herself in a compromising position with Jimmy in his new apartment. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=8

|EpisodeNumber2=8

|Title=The Rescue

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|10|29}}

|WrittenBy={{StoryTeleplay|s=Allan Heinberg|t=Melissa Rosenberg}}

|DirectedBy=Michael Lange

|Viewers=9.27{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2015308|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=October 31, 2003|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126063806/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2015308|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176507

|ShortSummary=Julie blames Ryan for Marissa's incident and tells him to stay away. Sandy starts his new job, and Kirsten is displeased with his new coworker, Rachel. Ryan must take a placement test to determine his enrollment at The Harbor School. Julie tries to get Marissa to see a therapist in San Diego, contrary to what Jimmy and Marissa want. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=9

|EpisodeNumber2=9

|Title=The Heights

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|11|5}}

|WrittenBy=Debra J. Fisher & Erica Messer

|DirectedBy=Patrick Norris

|Viewers=7.52{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2020639|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=November 7, 2003|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126061404/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2020639|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176508

|ShortSummary=Ryan doesn't feel like he belongs at Harbor and Luke doesn't help his situation. Summer keeps her friendship with Seth private, but is jealous of his relationship with Anna. Sandy accepts a case against Caleb at his new job, that will test his relationship with Kirsten. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=10

|EpisodeNumber2=10

|Title=The Perfect Couple

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|11|12}}

|WrittenBy=Allan Heinberg

|DirectedBy=Michael Fresco

|Viewers=8.28{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2028840|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=November 14, 2003|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126065024/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2028840|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176509

|ShortSummary=Kirsten becomes worried about Sandy's professional relationship with Rachel. Ryan spots Caleb and Julie together, and becomes responsible for Marissa outing their private relationship at a charity event. Summer tells Seth how she feels.

|LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=11

|EpisodeNumber2=11

|Title=The Homecoming

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|11|19}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz & Brian Oh

|DirectedBy=Keith Samples

|Viewers=9.03{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2036130|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=November 21, 2003|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126065029/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2036130|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176510

|ShortSummary=Ryan and Marissa go to Chino to visit Trey for Thanksgiving, but he asks Ryan for a favor. Seth must choose between Anna and Summer. Kirsten and Sandy make an attempt to set up Jimmy and Rachel. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=12

|EpisodeNumber2=12

|Title=The Secret

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|11|26}}

|WrittenBy=Allan Heinberg & Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=James Marshall

|Viewers=7.02{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41425636/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Nov. 24-30)|date=December 3, 2003|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=May 9, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176511

|ShortSummary=Ryan's trust is put to the test when he and Luke spot Carson with another man. Seth struggles to reconcile with Anna and Summer. Caleb and Julie agree to separate for a while. Jimmy and Sandy go into business together. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=13

|EpisodeNumber2=13

|Title=The Best Chrismukkah Ever

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|12|3}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage

|DirectedBy=Sanford Bookstaver

|Viewers=9.27{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2046527|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=December 5, 2003|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126064207/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2046527|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176512

|ShortSummary=Kirsten learns something about her father that'll help Sandy's case, but will put her job in jeopardy. Ryan's Christmas does not go as planned. Marissa meets someone in therapy. Meanwhile, Seth struggles choosing between Anna and Summer. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=14

|EpisodeNumber2=14

|Title=The Countdown

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2003|12|17}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Michael Fresco

|Viewers=7.99{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2056001|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=December 19, 2003|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126065812/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2056001|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176513

|ShortSummary=Kirsten's sister, Hailey, crashes at the Cohen's home and throws a New Year's Eve party that gets out of control. Ryan is worried about Marissa's relationship with Oliver. Anna decides to spend her night with Seth, without Summer's knowledge. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=15

|EpisodeNumber2=15

|Title=The Third Wheel

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|1|7}}

|WrittenBy=Melissa Rosenberg

|DirectedBy=Sandy Smolan

|Viewers=9.37{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41428762/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Jan. 5-11)|date=January 14, 2004|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=May 10, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176514

|ShortSummary=Hailey realizes she is no longer welcome at the Cohen residence. Oliver invites the gang to a Rooney concert, but Ryan catches him in a drug deal in the parking lot. Seth has difficulties telling Summer about his relationship with Anna. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=16

|EpisodeNumber2=16

|Title=The Links

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|1|14}}

|WrittenBy=Debra J. Fisher & Erica Messer

|DirectedBy=Michael Lange

|Viewers=8.57{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/41429095/the-los-angeles-times/|title=National Nielsen Viewership (Jan. 12-18)|date=January 23, 2004|work=The Los Angeles Times|access-date=May 10, 2022|via=Newspapers.com}}{{free access}}

|ProdCode=176515

|ShortSummary=Oliver's friendship with Marissa strains her relationship with Ryan. Summer becomes jealous of Seth and Anna's relationship. Meanwhile, Hailey and Kirsten clash when Kirsten convinces Caleb to cut her off. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=17

|EpisodeNumber2=17

|Title=The Rivals

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|1|21}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=12.72{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url=http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2075704|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=January 23, 2004|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|access-date=October 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090126065034/http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2075704|archive-date=January 26, 2009|df=mdy-all}}

|ProdCode=176516

|ShortSummary=Oliver transfers to Harbor, while Ryan risks his academic future to expose him. Seth becomes jealous of Summer's relationship with Danny, forcing him to doubt his relationship with Anna. Meanwhile, Jimmy and Sandy go into business together. Also, Kirsten gets worried about the company when Caleb hires Julie as an interior designer. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=18

|EpisodeNumber2=18

|Title=The Truth

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|2|11}}

|WrittenBy=Allan Heinberg

|DirectedBy=Rodman Flender

|Viewers=12.70{{Cite web|title=The Programming Insider|url= http://www.allbusiness.com/services/business-services-miscellaneous-business/4758557-1.html|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=February 13, 2004|work=Mediaweek|publisher=Nielsen Company|pages=5|access-date=August 11, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176517

|ShortSummary=Luke starts to see Oliver's true colors after he gets Ryan suspended, but Marissa won't see it. Anna confronts Seth about his relationship with Summer. Meanwhile, Caleb gets Kirsten to break up with Julie for him. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=19

|EpisodeNumber2=19

|Title=The Heartbreak

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|2|18}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Lev L. Spiro

|Viewers=10.95{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=February 24, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=022404_15|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176518

|ShortSummary=Ryan and Marissa need to rebuild trust after the incident with Oliver, but it's hard when Theresa comes to town. Jimmy discovers he has a secret admirer, while Luke spends the night with Julie. Meanwhile, Seth and Summer come to terms with their feelings for each other and consummate their relationship.|LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=20

|EpisodeNumber2=20

|Title=The Telenovela

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|2|25}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage

|DirectedBy=Sanford Bookstaver

|Viewers=9.56{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=March 2, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=030204_03|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176519

|ShortSummary=Ryan realizes Theresa isn't telling him the truth on why she's staying in Newport. Summer keeps her relationship with Seth private, turning him to Anna for support. Meanwhile, Sandy finds himself in the middle of Caleb's mess. Also, Jimmy suspects something between Julie and Luke. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=21

|EpisodeNumber2=21

|Title=The Goodbye Girl

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|3|3}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Patrick Norris

|Viewers=10.27{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=March 9, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=030904_05|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176520

|ShortSummary=Seth feels guilty when Anna announces she's moving back to Pittsburgh. Legal troubles brew for Caleb and Kirsten, while Sandy works to solve them. Luke and Julie find their secret affair harder to maintain. Meanwhile, Theresa's boyfriend from Chino arrives bringing trouble. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=22

|EpisodeNumber2=22

|Title=The L.A.

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|3|24}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=David M. Barrett

|Viewers=11.09{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=March 30, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=033004_05|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176521

|ShortSummary=Ryan, Marissa, Seth and Summer head down to L.A. and find Hailey working as a stripper. Jimmy and Sandy approach Caleb for business help. Meanwhile, Ryan tries to keep Luke and Julie's affair a secret from Marissa. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=23

|EpisodeNumber2=23

|Title=The Nana

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|3|31}}

|WrittenBy=Allan Heinberg

|DirectedBy=Michael Lange

|Viewers=11.37{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=April 6, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=040604_07|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176522

|ShortSummary=Sandy's mother from Florida comes to Newport for a visit with a different attitude. Ryan searches for Marissa. Summer tries to impress Nana. Jimmy and Hailey take a step forward with their newfound romance.

|LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=24

|EpisodeNumber2=24

|Title=The Proposal

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|4|14}}

|WrittenBy=Liz Friedman & Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Helen Shaver

|Viewers=10.50{{cite web|url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com/news2004/apr04/apr19/3_wed/news4wednesday.html |title=As sweeps nears, a much stronger NBC |last=Vasquez |first=Diego |work=Media Life Magazine |date=April 21, 2004 |access-date=June 17, 2023 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040503183329/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:80/news2004/apr04/apr19/3_wed/news4wednesday.html |archive-date=May 3, 2004 }}

|ProdCode=176523

|ShortSummary=Marissa doesn't want to hear what Luke has to say, but gives him a chance after a near-fatal car accident. Meanwhile, Jimmy becomes an obstacle in getting a liquor license. Caleb proposes to Julie. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=25

|EpisodeNumber2=25

|Title=The Shower

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|4|21}}

|WrittenBy=J. J. Philbin

|DirectedBy=Sandy Smolan

|Viewers=10.13{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=April 27, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=042704_03|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176524

|ShortSummary=Kirsten and Marissa throw a bridal shower for Julie, but Marissa invites Julie's unwanted estranged sister. Theresa calls Sandy for legal advice, but tries to avoid Ryan. Hailey and Jimmy continue their romance. Meanwhile, Summer is disappointed when Seth meets her father. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=26

|EpisodeNumber2=26

|Title=The Strip

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|4|28}}

|WrittenBy=Allan Heinberg

|DirectedBy=James Marshall

|Viewers=10.52{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=May 4, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=050404_06|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176525

|ShortSummary=While the boys are in Las Vegas, Jimmy and Sandy learn Caleb's true motives. Hailey devises a plan in an attempt to get Caleb to break it off with Julie. Marissa spends the night with Theresa and discovers something that might affect her.|LineColor=FB673A

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 1

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=27

|EpisodeNumber2=27

|Title=The Ties That Bind

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2004|5|5}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Patrick Norris

|Viewers=10.72{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=May 11, 2004|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=051104_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report|access-date=July 30, 2008}}

|ProdCode=176526

|ShortSummary=Caleb and Julie officially get married, and Marissa moves in with them. Ryan and Theresa face a difficult decision regarding her pregnancy. Seth makes a bold move when things around him start to fall apart. |LineColor=FB673A

}}

}}

The season was produced by Warner Bros. Television, Hypnotic (now Dutch Oven) and Wonderland.{{Cite web|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=5958 |title=Broadcast Upfront Presentations: FOX Part 1 |access-date=July 13, 2008 |date=May 15, 2003 |publisher=The Futon Critic}} The executive producers were creator Josh Schwartz, Doug Liman, Dave Bartis and McG, with showrunner Bob DeLaurentis joining them after the pilot episode.{{Cite news|first=Alessandra |last=Stanley |title=TELEVISION REVIEW; Take One Enclave, Add Rebellious Youth |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C07E3D8113EF936A3575BC0A9659C8B63&fta=y |work=The New York Times |date=August 5, 2003 |access-date=July 18, 2008}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/insidercommentary/archive/04.html |title=Backstage Pass – Insider Commentary: Stephanie Savage |access-date=July 13, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908144845/http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/insidercommentary/archive/04.html |archive-date=September 8, 2015 }} Melissa Rosenberg and Allan Heinberg served as co-executive producers. Stephanie Savage was supervising producer and Loucas George producer. The staff writers were Schwartz, Savage, Heinberg, Rosenberg, Jane Espenson, Debra J. Fisher, Erica Messer, Brian Oh, J.J. Philbin and Liz Friedman. The regular directors throughout the season were Liman, Sanford Bookstaver, Michael Lange, Patrick Norris, Michael Fresco, James Marshall and Sandy Smolan.

Image:The O.C. cast (season 1).jpg, Summer, Marissa, Julie, Ryan, Sandy, Kirsten, Seth and Luke.]]

The initial season had nine major roles receive star billing. Ben McKenzie portrayed protagonist Ryan Atwood, a troubled teenager who is thrust into the wealthy lifestyle of Newport.{{Cite news|first=Alison |last=Maxwell |author2=Jim Cheng |title=A grown-up's guide to 'The O.C.' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2004-04-13-oc-adults_x.htm |work=USA Today |publisher=Gannett Company |location=McLean, Virginia |date=April 14, 2004 |access-date=July 11, 2008}} Mischa Barton played the girl next door, Marissa Cooper, with Tate Donovan starring as her financially troubled father Jimmy. Adam Brody acted as geeky ostracized teenager Seth Cohen with Kelly Rowan playing his mother Kirsten, the powerful businesswoman, and Peter Gallagher portraying his father, Sandy, a public defense attorney.{{Cite web|url=http://www.petergallagher.com/tv/oc/oc.htm |title=Peter Gallagher – The O.C. |access-date=July 10, 2008 |publisher=PeterGallagher.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080625083654/http://www.petergallagher.com/tv/oc/oc.htm |archive-date=June 25, 2008 |url-status=dead }} Chris Carmack portrayed Marissa's boyfriend Luke Ward. Originally only guest stars, Melinda Clarke starred as Marissa's mother, Julie Cooper, and Rachel Bilson played Summer Roberts,{{Cite news|first=Lesley |last=O'Toole |title=Rachel Bilson: She's the one |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/rachel-bilson-shes-the-one-422345.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220618/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/rachel-bilson-shes-the-one-422345.html |archive-date=June 18, 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |work=The Independent |location=Canary Wharf, London |publisher=Independent News & Media |date=October 31, 2006 |access-date=July 11, 2008}} best friend to Marissa and Seth's object of affection. Both gained contracts to the main cast list after thirteen episodes.{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season1/14.html |title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide – "The Countdown" |access-date=July 15, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros.}}

Numerous supporting characters were given expansive and recurring appearances in the progressive storyline, including Samaire Armstrong as Anna Stern,{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season1/16.html |title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide – "The Links" |access-date=July 15, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros.}} Alan Dale as wealthy businessman and father of Kirstin, Caleb Nichol.{{Cite news|first=Ken |last=Barnes |title=Five reasons you should watch 'The O.C.' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2004-04-13-oc-reasons-to-watch_x.htm |work=USA Today |publisher=Gannett Company |location=McLean, Virginia |date=April 13, 2004 |access-date=July 11, 2008}} Taylor Handley played Oliver Trask, a psychotic character who viewers loved to hate.{{Cite web |url=https://www.tvguide.com/news/oc-schwartz-oliver/040211-02 |title=O.C. Exec Defends Oliver |access-date=July 16, 2008 |last=Ausiello |first=Michael |date=February 11, 2004 |work=TV Guide |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080612103212/http://www.tvguide.com/news/oc-schwartz-oliver/040211-02 |archive-date=June 12, 2008 |df=mdy-all }} Amanda Righetti starred as Kirstin's younger sister Hailey Nichol. Navi Rawat played Theresa Diaz, childhood sweetheart of Ryan.{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season1/19.html |title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide – "The Hearbreak" |access-date=July 15, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros.}} Bonnie Somerville acted as Rachel Hoffman, a former colleague of Sandy,{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season1/07.html |title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide – "The Rescue" |access-date=July 15, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros.}} and Ashley Hartman portrayed Holly Fischer a friend of Marissa and Summer.

Other guest stars in recurring roles include Linda Lavin as Nana Cohen, Daphne Ashbrook as Ryan's mother Dawn and Michael Nouri as Summer's father Neil.{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season1/01.html |title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide – "The Pilot" |access-date=July 15, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros.}} Actors Bradley Stryker, as Ryan's brother Trey,{{Cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season1/11.html |title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide – "The Homecoming" |access-date=July 15, 2008 |work=The O.C. Insider |publisher=Warner Bros.}} and Shailene Woodley, as Marissa's younger sister Kaitlin, were both only guest stars at this point. However, both these characters, portrayed by different actors, would return to a larger role in later seasons.

The pilot episode of the season gained 7.5 million viewers and was nominated for a Writers Guild of America Award for best episodic drama.{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/Columnists/Todays-News-Our-Take/default.aspx?posting={485EBD65-BF0E-4286-9BF3-A5499B23CAC9} |title=Today's News: Our Take |access-date=July 5, 2008 |date=August 7, 2003 |work=TV Guide}} As the season progressed, ratings picked up with 8 million viewers tuning into for the third episode and 8.6 million viewers watching the fourth installment.{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/Columnists/Todays-News-Our-Take/default.aspx?posting={1B82BBA4-2B6B-4A63-98CA-1B823CB1B8C8} |title=Today's News: Our Take |access-date=July 5, 2008 |date=August 27, 2003 |work=TV Guide}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/Columnists/Todays-News-Our-Take/default.aspx?posting={F1BC2518-28BD-4FB2-9CCF-437F7CCF270E} |title=Today's News: Our Take |access-date=July 5, 2008 |date=August 28, 2003 |work=TV Guide}} This resulted in FOX initially ordering an additional six episodes. The season was split into two parts, the first consisting of seven episodes shown weekly, which averaged 8.43 million viewers.{{Cite web|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=6202 |title=FOX EXTENDS 'THE O.C.' TO 27 EPISODES |access-date=July 5, 2008 |last=Ford Sullivan |first=Brian |date=October 20, 2003 |publisher=The Futon Critic}} This was followed by a seven-week hiatus, in which FOX announced it had ordered another five episodes, bringing the total season to twenty-seven.{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/Columnists/Todays-News-Our-Take/default.aspx?posting={6874C83D-3140-4634-8B6B-2D088D321378} |title=Today's News: Our Take |access-date=July 5, 2008 |date=October 20, 2003 |work=TV Guide}}

The time-slot for the second half of the season was originally planned for Thursday nights, but facing competition from CSI: Crime Scene Investigation on CBS and Will & Grace on NBC it was moved to Wednesday nights at 9:00 p.m. instead. Overall season one was the highest-rated new drama of the season among adults aged 18 to 34,{{Cite news|title=Ratings shine in 'The O.C.' |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/USAToday/access/568648551.html?dids=568648551:568648551&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Mar+2%2C+2004&author=&pub=USA+TODAY&edition=&startpage=D.01&desc=Ratings+shine+in+%27The+O.C.%27 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120527011833/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/USAToday/access/568648551.html?dids=568648551:568648551&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Mar+2,+2004&author=&pub=USA+TODAY&edition=&startpage=D.01&desc=Ratings+shine+in+'The+O.C.' |url-status=dead |archive-date=May 27, 2012 |format=Note: Payment required |work=USA Today |publisher=Gannett Company |location=McLean, Virginia |date=March 2, 2004 |access-date=July 20, 2008 }} averaging a total of 9.7 million viewers.{{Cite web|url=http://www.abcmedianet.com/pressrel/dispDNR.html?id=060204_11 |title=I.T.R.S. Ranking Report: Primetime Mon-Sun |access-date=July 20, 2008 |date=June 2, 2004 |publisher=ABC Medianet |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208132303/http://www.abcmedianet.com/pressrel/dispDNR.html?id=060204_11 |archive-date=February 8, 2007}} The show picked up four Teen Choice Awards and was nominated for another two, as well as getting nominated for the Outstanding New Program TCA Award."[http://www.tvcriticsassociation.com/tca/?q=view/tcaawards The Television Critics Association Awards] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080715154923/http://www.tvcriticsassociation.com/tca/?q=view%2Ftcaawards |date=July 15, 2008 }}", Television Critics Association. Documented at "[http://www.tvcriticsassociation.com/tca/files/July2007/TCA%20complete%20NOMINEES%20list.xls Complete list of nominees] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170701184024/http://www.tvcriticsassociation.com/tca/files/July2007/TCA%20complete%20NOMINEES%20list.xls |date=July 1, 2017 }}" {{XLSlink}} (XLS). Retrieved on July 17, 2008. In the UK, its two showings a week averaged 1.2 million viewers, and it was one of the highest rating Sunday daytime programs, also attracting fans to E4 on Monday nights.{{Cite news|first=Catherine |last=Elsworth |author2=Born, Matt |title=Bush twins endorse the sultry soap taking over from Friends |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/1474302/Bush-twins-endorse-the-sultry-soap-taking-over-from-Friends.html |work=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=May 3, 2007|access-date=July 19, 2008}} It was also well received in Australia, picking up a Logie Award for Most Popular Overseas Program in 2005.{{Cite news|title=Logie award winners 2005|url=http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,21664454-5012909,00.html|work=The Daily Telegraph|publisher=News Limited|location=Sydney|date=October 16, 2004|access-date=July 23, 2008}}

The first season received generally positive reviews from critics, with the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes reported a 77% approval rating, with an average rating of 6.56/10 and based on 22 reviews. The website's critical consensus reads, "Even though it lacks an original take on teen angst, The O.C. functions well enough for its target audience, churning plenty of soap storylines out of a talented cast."{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_o_c_/s01|title=THE O.C.: SEASON 1|publisher=Fandango Media|work=Rotten Tomatoes|access-date=February 18, 2019}} Metacritic, which uses a weighted average, assigned a score of 67 out of 100 based on reviews from 17 critics, indicating "generally favorable" reviews.{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/tv/the-oc|title=THE O.C. : SEASON 1|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=February 18, 2019}} However, the show did come in for some criticism. San Jose Mercury News criticized the plot and the casting saying that "the storylines usually involve the obligatory three-episode-arc drug problems or lost virginity with dialogue designed to keep a dog up to speed",{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/living/people/teens/8689283.htm?1c |title=Unreality TV |access-date=February 8, 2008 |date=May 18, 2004 |work=San Jose Mercury News |publisher=MediaNews Group |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040623124319/http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/living/people/teens/8689283.htm?1c |archive-date=June 23, 2004 }} and that "Whoever at FOX thought Benjamin McKenzie (Ryan on "The O.C.") could pass for anything younger than 25 should be fired". A DVD review was critical of the repetitive plot stating that "the Ryan-Marissa fol-de-rol gets tiresome as it devolves into relentless bad timing",{{Cite web|url=http://www.dvdjournal.com/quickreviews/o/oc.season01.q.shtml |title=The O.C.: Season One |access-date=July 17, 2008 |last=Dorr |first= Gregory P. |publisher=DVD Journal}} while Entertainment Weekly did not think the acting was always up to scratch, stating "it's unfortunate to have all this potential for arm-flinging drama invested in Barton, an actress who can be as flat as a paper doll".{{Cite magazine|first=Gillian |last=Flynn |title=TV Review – The O.C. |url=https://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,780733,00.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070119190354/http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,780733,00.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 19, 2007 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |publisher=Time Inc. |date=November 19, 2004 |access-date=July 17, 2008}} It was also denounced for excessive brawling and glamorizing underage drinking.{{Cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060508165612/http://www.pluggedinonline.com/tv/television/a0001536.cfm|archive-date=May 8, 2006|url=http://www.pluggedinonline.com/tv/television/a0001536.cfm |title=The O.C. |access-date=July 20, 2008 |last=Isaac |first=Steven |date=October 2003 |publisher=Plugged In}}

The DVD release of season one was released by Warner Bros. in the US on October 26, 2004, after it had completed broadcast on television. As well as every episode from the season, the DVD release features bonus material including a preview of the second season, deleted scenes, audio commentary and behind-the-scenes featurettes.

{{Reflist|30em}}

• [http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodeguide01.html Episode guide] at Warner Bros.' The OC Insider
• {{IMDb episodes|0362359|The O.C.}}

{{The O.C.}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:O.C. Season 1, The}}

{{Featured list}}

{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2015}}

Season 1

Category:2003 American television seasons

Category:2004 American television seasons