The O.C. season 3#ep63

Picking up from season two's conclusion, season three continues to follow the characters' lives in the wealthy community of Newport Beach, Orange County, California, with the main characters entering their senior year of high school. Ryan's savior complex causes trouble, and Seth's lies poses problems in his relationship with Summer. Meanwhile, Kirsten attends rehab in an attempt to put her life back together, while her husband Sandy assumes leadership of the Newport Group after Caleb's death and finds himself the heir-apparent to a legacy of scandal. Marissa spirals out of control after her younger sister Kaitlin causes trouble on her return home from boarding school.

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

{{col-begin}}

{{col-3}}

• Peter Gallagher as Sandy Cohen (25 episodes)
• Kelly Rowan as Kirsten Cohen (25 episodes)
• Benjamin McKenzie as Ryan Atwood (25 episodes)
• Mischa Barton as Marissa Cooper (25 episodes)
• Adam Brody as Seth Cohen (25 episodes)
• Melinda Clarke as Julie Cooper (24 episodes)
• Rachel Bilson as Summer Roberts (25 episodes)

{{col-3}}

• Autumn Reeser as Taylor Townsend (15 episodes)
• Michael Nouri as Neil Roberts (14 episodes)
• Cam Gigandet as Kevin Volchok (13 episodes)
• Jeff Hephner as Matt Ramsey (13 episodes)
• Ryan Donowho as Johnny Harper (11 episodes)
• Johnny Lewis as Dennis "Chili" Childress (9 episodes)
• Jeri Ryan as Charlotte Morgan (7 episodes)
• Willa Holland as Kaitlin Cooper (6 episodes)
• Nikki Reed as Sadie Campbell (6 episodes)
• Paula Trickey as Veronica Townsend (5 episodes)
• Eric Mabius as Dean Jack Hess (4 episodes)
• Lisa Rotondi as Gwen Harper (4 episodes)
• Shaun Duke as Henry Griffin (4 episodes)
• Morena Baccarin as Maya Griffin (3 episodes)
• Navi Rawat as Theresa Diaz (3 episodes)
• Daphne Ashbrook as Dawn Atwood (3 episodes)
• Rosalind Chao as Dr Kim (3 episodes)

{{col-3}}

• Samaire Armstrong as Anna Stern (2 episodes)
• Logan Marshall-Green as Trey Atwood (1 episode)
• Nikki Griffin as Jess Sathers (1 episode)

{{col-end}}

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

{{Episode table |total_width=99 |background=#bac7be |overall= |season= |title= |director= |writer= |airdate= |prodcode= |viewers= |country=U.S. |episodes=

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=52

|EpisodeNumber2=1

|Title=The Aftermath

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|9|8}}

|WrittenBy={{StoryTeleplay|s=Josh Schwartz & Bob DeLaurentis|t=Josh Schwartz}}

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=7.50{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=September 13, 2005 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=091305_04 |title=Weekly Program Rankings Report |access-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141105055054/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=091305_04 |archive-date=November 5, 2014 }}

|ProdCode=2T6251

|ShortSummary=The aftermath of Trey's shooting is still being felt. Julie takes desperate measures to protect her family. Kirsten meets another recovering alcoholic, while Sandy, Seth and Ryan deal with her absence at home.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=53

|EpisodeNumber2=2

|Title=The Shape of Things to Come

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|9|15}}

|WrittenBy=J. J. Philbin

|DirectedBy=Tony Wharmby

|Viewers=6.22{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=September 20, 2005 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=092005_04 |title=Weekly Program Rankings Report |access-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707090011/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=092005_04 |archive-date=July 7, 2011 }}

|ProdCode=2T6252

|ShortSummary=Sandy tries to encourage Kirsten to come home, but her friendship with Charlotte keeps her at rehab. The new Dean of Discipline determines Ryan and Marissa's fates at Harbor. Meanwhile, Summer is not pleased with Taylor Townsend arranging the school's Kick-Off carnival. Jimmy has an unexpected proposal for Julie.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=54

|EpisodeNumber2=3

|Title=The End of Innocence

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|9|22}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage

|DirectedBy=Michael Lange

|Viewers=6.45{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=September 27, 2005 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=092705_03 |title=Weekly Program Rankings Report |access-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528010150/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=092705_03 |archive-date=May 28, 2010 }}

|ProdCode=2T6253

|ShortSummary=Sandy and Julie begin to interfere in Ryan and Marissa's relationship. Dean Hess threatens Seth and Summer with their lack of school spirit. Meanwhile, Caleb's will leaves the family in shock and Jimmy in trouble.

This episode is named after an album by Don Henley.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber2=4

|Title=The Last Waltz

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|9|29}}

|WrittenBy=John Stephens

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|EpisodeNumber=55

|Viewers=6.56{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=October 4, 2005|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=100405_07|title=Weekly Program Rankings Report (Sept. 26-Oct. 2, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221112808/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=100405_07|archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6254

|ShortSummary=Marissa adapts to Newport Union, but Ryan is worried the separation will affect their relationship. Taylor schemes with Seth and Dean Hess' feud, but Summer finds a way to backfire. Meanwhile, Charlotte arrives in Newport with big plans for Kirsten. Sandy takes over the future of the Newport Group. Also, Julie may no longer be considered a Newport Beach socialite.

This episode is named after an album by The Band.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=56

|EpisodeNumber2=5

|Title=The Perfect Storm

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|11|3}}

|WrittenBy=Mike Kelley

|DirectedBy=Tony Wharmby

|Viewers=6.65{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=November 8, 2005 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=110805_04 |title=Weekly Program Rankings (Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221202522/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=110805_04 |archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6255

|ShortSummary=Sandy, Seth and Summer find a way to blackmail Dean Hess into letting Ryan back into Harbor. Meanwhile, Charlotte makes Julie an offer she can't refuse.

This episode is named after the film of the same name.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=57

|EpisodeNumber2=6

|Title=The Swells

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|11|10}}

|WrittenBy=J. J. Philbin

|DirectedBy=Michael Fresco

|Viewers=5.76{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=November 15, 2005|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150311233404/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=111505_03|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Nov. 7-13, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=111505_03|archive-date=March 11, 2015}}

|ProdCode=2T6256

|ShortSummary=Taylor throws a Harbor event and plans to separate Seth and Summer. Ryan becomes concerned about Marissa's new life at Newport Union. Meanwhile, Sandy works on a plan for the Newport Group and forms a new partnership. Charlotte convinces Julie to involve Kirsten in her scheme.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=58

|EpisodeNumber2=7

|Title=The Anger Management

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|11|17}}

|WrittenBy=John Stephens

|DirectedBy=Michael Fresco

|Viewers=6.20{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=November 22, 2005|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150311233415/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=112205_09|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Nov. 14-20, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=112205_09|archive-date=March 11, 2015}}

|ProdCode=2T6257

|ShortSummary=Marissa is determined to get Volchok to stay away from Ryan. Taylor begins to cause major rifts in Seth and Summer's relationship. Meanwhile, Sandy's new business partner goes above and beyond the call of duty. Charlotte is forced to leave town after Julie makes a bold move in their scheme.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=59

|EpisodeNumber2=8

|Title=The Game Plan

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|12|1}}

|WrittenBy=Cory Martin

|DirectedBy=Tate Donovan

|Viewers=5.90{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=December 6, 2005 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=120605_03|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221113155/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=120605_03|archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6258

|ShortSummary=Ryan, Seth and Summer think about their future and start applying to colleges, while Marissa has other plans. Julie is forced to move into a trailer park and Kirsten is determined to help. Meanwhile, Sandy invites an old friend from UC Berkeley to dinner to inspire Ryan and Seth.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=60

|EpisodeNumber2=9

|Title=The Disconnect

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|12|8}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage

|DirectedBy=Tony Wharmby

|Viewers=5.88{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=December 13, 2005|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=121305_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Nov. 21–27, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221202525/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=121305_04|archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6259

|ShortSummary=Ryan takes an internship working for Sandy at the Newport Group, but he ends up working to save Matt's career. Summer and Seth are determined to get accepted into Brown. Johnny tells Marissa how he feels about her. Julie tries to adapt to her new living situation.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=61

|EpisodeNumber2=10

|Title=The Chrismukkah Bar-Mitzvahkkah

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2005|12|15}}

|WrittenBy=Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=6.22{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=December 20, 2005 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=122005_04 |title=Weekly Program Rankings (Dec. 12-18, 2005)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221172029/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=122005_04 |archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6260

|ShortSummary=Johnny's sudden misfortune forces him to take matters into his own hands, but Marissa and Ryan are determined to help. Kirsten reaches out to Julie about her living situation. Meanwhile, the holidays lead Summer to question Neil about her mother.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=62

|EpisodeNumber2=11

|Title=The Safe Harbor

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|1|12}}

|WrittenBy=Mike Kelley

|DirectedBy=Tony Wharmby

|Viewers=5.13{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=January 18, 2006|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528010034/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=011806_07|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Jan. 9-15, 2006)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=011806_07|archive-date=May 28, 2010}}

|ProdCode=2T6261

|ShortSummary=Ryan, Seth, and Summer create a case to bring Marissa back to Harbor, much to Johnny's dismay; Sandy must make an ethical work decision that could influence the judge's verdict. Meanwhile, Neil and Julie are determined to tell their daughters what they've been hiding from them.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=63

|EpisodeNumber2=12

|Title=The Sister Act

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|1|19}}

|WrittenBy=Leila Gerstein

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=5.36{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=January 24, 2006|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528005636/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=012406_06|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Jan. 16-22, 2006)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=012406_06|archive-date=May 28, 2010}}

|ProdCode=2T6262

|ShortSummary=Kaitlin Cooper returns to Newport, but brings trouble with her and asks Ryan for help. Meanwhile, Veronica Townsend requests a personal favor from Kirsten and threatens Marissa's future at Harbor.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=64

|EpisodeNumber2=13

|Title=The Pot Stirrer

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|1|26}}

|WrittenBy=John Stephens

|DirectedBy=Norman Buckley

|Viewers=5.70{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=January 31, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=013106_07 |title=Weekly Program Rankings Report |access-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140728022430/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=013106_07 |archive-date=July 28, 2014 }}

|ProdCode=2T6263

|ShortSummary=Marissa tries everything she can to rebuild her relationship with Kaitlin, who teaches Seth an alternative stress reliever. Sandy and Matt work together to secure a contract for the new hospital. Meanwhile, Julie is determined to bring her family together.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=65

|EpisodeNumber2=14

|Title=The Cliffhanger

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|2|2}}

|WrittenBy=J. J. Philbin

|DirectedBy=Michael Lange

|Viewers=5.35{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=February 7, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=020706_05 |title=Weekly Program Rankings (Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2006)|access-date=June 23, 2023|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221201402/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=020706_05 |archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6264

|ShortSummary=Ryan confronts Marissa about their relationship when Kaitlin interferes with her friendship with Johnny. Seth confronts Summer about his Brown interview. Meanwhile, Kirsten and Julie take their dating service a little too far.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=66

|EpisodeNumber2=15

|Title=The Heavy Lifting

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|2|9}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=5.25{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=February 14, 2006|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150311231306/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=021406_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Feb. 6-12, 2006)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=021406_04|archive-date=March 11, 2015}}

|ProdCode=2T6265

|ShortSummary=Johnny's death brings a relative to Newport, who makes Ryan question his feelings for Marissa. Summer confronts Seth about the marijuana and his lies. Kaitlin returns to boarding school. Meanwhile, Kirsten and Julie throw a Valentine's Day party to promote NewMatch.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=67

|EpisodeNumber2=16

|Title=The Road Warrior

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|3|9}}

|WrittenBy=Mike Kelley

|DirectedBy=Michael Fresco

|Viewers=7.36{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=March 14, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=031406_03 |title=Weekly Program Rankings Report |access-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011060528/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=031406_03 |archive-date=October 11, 2014 }}

|ProdCode=2T6266

|ShortSummary=Ryan and Sadie go on a road trip to find Johnny's dad, while Marissa's being investigated. Meanwhile, Seth and Summer discover Julie and Neil's secret relationship.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=68

|EpisodeNumber2=17

|Title=The Journey

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|3|16}}

|WrittenBy=John Stephens

|DirectedBy=Roxann Dawson

|Viewers=5.40{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=March 21, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=032106_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Mar. 13-19, 2006)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221202452/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=032106_04 |archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6267

|ShortSummary=Ryan struggles whether to invite Marissa to his birthday or not, while Sandy decides if he should invite one of Ryan's family members. Neil and Julie decide to tell Marissa and Summer about their relationship. Volchok tries to become involved in Marissa's life.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=69

|EpisodeNumber2=18

|Title=The Undertow

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|3|23}}

|WrittenBy=Mark Fish & J. J. Philbin

|DirectedBy=Robert Duncan McNeill

|Viewers=5.36{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=March 28, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=032806_02 |title=Weekly Program Rankings (Mar. 20-26, 2006)|access-date=September 16, 2010|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329110008/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=032806_02 |archive-date=March 29, 2012}}

|ProdCode=2T6268

|ShortSummary=An old nemesis returns to Newport, causing rifts in Ryan's new relationship with Sadie. Seth and Summer turn to Taylor when their relationship struggles Marissa finds herself all alone in Newport and spends the night with Volchok. Meanwhile, Sandy grapples with business pressure.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=70

|EpisodeNumber2=19

|Title=The Secrets and Lies

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|3|30}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage & Josh Schwartz

|DirectedBy=Michael Fresco

|Viewers=5.50{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=April 4, 2005|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=040406_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Mar. 27-Apr. 2, 2006)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221112724/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=040406_04|archive-date=December 21, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6269

|ShortSummary=Julie and Neil tell their daughters about their engagement; however, Marissa distances herself from Summer when she gets closer to Volchok. Ryan tries to move on with his relationship with Sadie. Meanwhile, Kirsten and Seth have a night out. At the Newport Group, Sandy has to deal with Matt's mishaps.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=71

|EpisodeNumber2=20

|Title=The Day After Tomorrow

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|4|6}}

|WrittenBy=Leila Gerstein

|DirectedBy=Norman Buckley

|Viewers=5.06{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=April 11, 2006|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=041106_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Apr. 3–9, 2006)|access-date=July 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118061819/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=041106_04|archive-date=January 18, 2012}}

|ProdCode=2T6270

|ShortSummary=Ryan and Sadie plan their future after high school, but their decision concerns Sandy and Kirsten. Marissa and Summer begin to rebuild their friendship. Meanwhile, the drama surrounding Sandy's job intensifies and seeps into the Cohen household.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=72

|EpisodeNumber2=21

|Title=The Dawn Patrol

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|4|13}}

|WrittenBy=Mike Kelley

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=4.33{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=041806_05|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Apr. 10-16, 2006)|date=April 18, 2006|access-date=July 29, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528010123/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=041806_05|archive-date=May 28, 2010|url-status=dead}}

|ProdCode=2T6271

|ShortSummary=Ryan leaves Newport to invite Dawn to graduation, but hesitates. Summer and Taylor try to discover what Seth is hiding from them. Julie confronts Volchok about his relationship with Marissa. Meanwhile, Sandy begins to pay more attention to the Newport Group than his home life.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=73

|EpisodeNumber2=22

|Title=The College Try

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|4|20}}

|WrittenBy=J. J. Philbin

|DirectedBy=Tony Wharmby

|Viewers=5.36{{cite web|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=042506_04|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Apr. 17-23, 2006)|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=April 25, 2006|access-date=September 16, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141105055102/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=042506_04|archive-date=November 5, 2014|url-status=dead}}

|ProdCode=2T6272

|ShortSummary=Ryan and Marissa leave Newport to attend an orientation at UC Berkeley, while Seth visits Brown and sees a familiar face, to Summer's displeasure. Kirsten is surprised to see someone from the family's past at the airport, and turns to Sandy for support.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=74

|EpisodeNumber2=23

|Title=The Party Favor

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|4|27}}

|WrittenBy=John Stephens

|DirectedBy=Michael Lange

|Viewers=5.41{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet|date=May 2, 2006|url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=050206_05|title=Weekly Program Rankings (Apr. 24-30, 2006)|access-date=September 16, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081227112445/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=050206_05|archive-date=December 27, 2008}}

|ProdCode=2T6273

|ShortSummary=Ryan invites Theresa to prom, while Marissa bring Volchok, who only causes trouble. Anna helps Seth rebuild his relationship with Summer. Meanwhile, Kirsten turns to Julie for support. Sandy finds trouble in the hospital development.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=75

|EpisodeNumber2=24

|Title=The Man of the Year

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|5|4}}

|WrittenBy=Stephanie Savage

|DirectedBy=Tony Wharmby

|Viewers=5.10{{cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=May 9, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=050906_02 |title=Weekly Program Rankings Report |access-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528010130/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=050906_02 |archive-date=May 28, 2010 }}

|ProdCode=2T6274

|ShortSummary=Sandy and Seth confront each other about their recent behaviors. Volchok leads Ryan into trouble. Kirsten returns to some bad habits. Meanwhile, Marissa leaves Newport when Kaitlin calls for a favor.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

{{Episode list/sublist|The O.C. season 3

|MainList=List of The O.C. episodes

|EpisodeNumber=76

|EpisodeNumber2=25

|Title=The Graduates

|OriginalAirDate={{Start date|2006|5|18}}

|WrittenBy={{StoryTeleplay|s=Bob DeLaurentis & Josh Schwartz|t=Josh Schwartz}}

|DirectedBy=Ian Toynton

|Viewers=6.40{{Cite web|publisher=ABC Medianet |date=May 23, 2006 |url=http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=052306_05 |title=Weekly Program Rankings (May 15–21, 2006)|access-date=June 19, 2025|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120229224016/http://abcmedianet.com/web/dnr/dispDNR.aspx?id=052306_05 |archive-date=February 29, 2012 }}

|ProdCode=2T6275

|ShortSummary= Graduation has arrived for the gang of Newport harbor, it's a celebration filled with new beginnings and old faces,however, the best day of their lives is cut short as the day takes a fatal turn for one of them.

|LineColor=bac7be

}}

}}

The season was produced by Warner Bros. Television and Wonderland Sound and Vision. The executive producers were series creator Josh Schwartz, McG, a co-founder of Wonderland, and Bob DeLaurentis.{{cite web|title =Fox Orders Third Season of 'The O.C.'|publisher=The Futon Critic|author=Fox: Press release|date=March 22, 2005|url=http://www.futoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20050322fox01|access-date=September 23, 2008}} Stephanie Savage, the other co-founder of Wonderland, served as co-executive producer, whilst Ian Toynton served as supervising producer.{{cite web|title =Fox Orders Third Season of 'The O.C.'|publisher=The Futon Critic|author=Fox: Press release|date=November 9, 2005|url=http://www.futoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20050322fox01|access-date=September 24, 2008}} The staff writers were Schwartz, Savage, DeLaurentis, John Stephens, J.J. Philbin and Mike Kelley. The regular directors throughout the season were Toynton, Michael Lange, Michael Fresco, Norman Buckley and Tony Wharmby.

File:TheOCcast3.jpg, Marissa, Sandy, Kirsten, Ryan, Seth and Summer.]]

File:Autumn Reeser by David Shankbone.jpg.]]

The third season had star billing for seven major roles. Mischa Barton as Marissa, Rachel Bilson as Summer, Adam Brody as Seth, Melinda Clarke as Julie, Peter Gallagher as Sandy, Benjamin McKenzie as Ryan, and Kelly Rowan as Kirsten all returned to the main cast.{{cite web|url=http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Issue/column?oid=oid%3A287930|title=TV Eye: 'The OC' effect|last=Acosta|first=Belinda|date=September 2, 2005|work=The Austin Chronicle|publisher=Nick Barbaro|access-date=September 24, 2008}} Former main cast member Alan Dale did not return due to his character, Caleb, dying at the end of the second season, while Tate Donovan, as Jimmy Cooper, returned only in a recurring role, and then only for the first three episodes of the season.

Logan Marshall-Green returned for the season premiere, portraying Trey Atwood, comatosed as a result of the shooting in the second-season finale.{{cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season3/01.html|title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide - "The Aftermath"|work=The O.C. Insider|publisher=Warner Bros.|access-date=September 24, 2008}} Additionally Navi Rawat, Samaire Armstrong, Daphne Ashbrook and Nikki Griffin all made brief returns to guest star as Theresa Diaz, Anna Stern,{{cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season3/22.html|title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide - "The College Try"|work=The O.C. Insider|publisher=Warner Bros.|access-date=September 24, 2008}} Dawn Atwood,{{cite web|url=http://www.daphneashbrook.net/Resume.html|title=Daphne Ashbrook Resume|work=daphneashbrook.net|publisher=Daphne Ashbrook|access-date=September 24, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090309095655/http://www.daphneashbrook.net/Resume.html|archive-date=March 9, 2009}} and Jess Sathers,{{cite web|url=https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/nikki-griffin/credits/260899|title=Nikki Griffin: Credits|work=TV Guide|access-date=September 24, 2008}} respectively. Willa Holland took over from Shailene Woodley in portraying Marissa's younger sister Kaitlin, who returns to the show after being away at boarding school last year. Cast member Michael Nouri continued as Summer's dad, Dr. Neil Roberts, who became a larger part of the series.{{cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season3/16.html|title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide - "The Road Warrior"|work=The O.C. Insider|publisher=Warner Bros.|access-date=September 24, 2008}} Other actors to leave the series were Nicholas Gonzalez (D.J.), Michael Cassidy (Zach), Shannon Lucio (Lindsay), Olivia Wilde (Alex), Billy Campbell (Carter), Kim Delaney (Rebecca), Johnny Messner (Lance), Kathleen York (Renee), and Marguerite Moreau (Reed).

The season introduced a number of new students to the show. Additions to the cast included Autumn Reeser, Cam Gigandet, Ryan Donowho and Johnny Lewis, as new social chair Taylor Townsend,{{cite web|url=http://www.autumnreeser.com/bio|title=Autumn Reeser - Bio|work=autumnreeser.com|publisher=Autumn Reeser|access-date=September 25, 2008}} rival surfers Kevin Volchok{{cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season3/07.html|title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide - "The Anger Management"|work=The O.C. Insider|publisher=Warner Bros.|access-date=September 24, 2008}} and Johnny Harper, and Johnny's best friend Chili.{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/gayspy/a90507/picture-special-boys-from-the-oc.html|title=Picture Special: Boys from 'The O.C.'|last=Levine|first=Nick|date=March 2, 2008|work=Digital Spy|publisher=Hachette Filipacchi Médias|access-date=September 24, 2008}} Jeri Ryan and Jeff Hephner also joined the cast to portray new adult characters Charlotte Morgan, a mysterious woman Kirsten befriends in rehab, and Matt Ramsey, an overzealous business partner working at the Newport Group.{{cite web|url=https://www.variety.com/article/VR1117932688.html?categoryid=28&cs=1|title=Jeff Hephner|last=Chang|first=Justin|date=November 9, 2005|work=Daily Variety|publisher=Reed Elsevier|access-date=September 25, 2008}} New guest stars in recurring roles included Paula Trickey as Taylor's mother, Veronica Townsend; Erin Foster as a Newport Union student called Heather; Kayla Ewell and Nikki Reed as Johnny's girlfriend, Casey, and cousin Sadie;{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2006-02-07-nikki-reed_x.htm|title='O.C.' girl doesn't back down|last=Keck|first=William|date=February 7, 2006|work=USA Today|publisher=Gannett Company|access-date=September 26, 2008}} Eric Mabius as new Dean of Discipline, Jack Hess;{{cite web|url=http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodes/season3/02.html|title=Backstage Pass: Episode Guide - "The Shape of Things to Come"|work=The O.C. Insider|publisher=Warner Bros.|access-date=September 24, 2008}} Shaun Duke as Henry Griffin, head of the board at Newport Hospital; and Morena Baccarin as Griffin's daughter Maya. This is the final season for original cast member Mischa Barton who played Marissa Cooper; Marissa tragically dies in a car accident in the season finale.

Season three was widely regarded by both fans and critics as the worst season of The O.C.{{cite web|url=http://uk.tv.ign.com/articles/771/771116p1.html|title=The O.C.: Which Season Was Best?|last=Goldman|first=Eric|date=March 7, 2007|work=IGN|publisher=Fox Interactive Media|access-date=September 25, 2008}} The season premiere attracted 7.5 million viewers, but average viewing figures decreased twenty percent from the previous season to 5.6 million.{{cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/search/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002576393|title=Series Primetime Wrap 2005–2006|date=May 26, 2006|work=The Hollywood Reporter|publisher=Nielsen Business Media|access-date=September 25, 2008|archive-date=January 24, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090124150858/http://hollywoodreporter.com/hr/search/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002576393|url-status=dead}} The first half of the season averaged 6.3 million viewers, representing a substantial decrease in the show's popularity. However Marcy Ross, head of current programming at FOX said that the "ratings are perfectly fine and acceptable".{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2005-12-14-oc-graduation-plans_x.htm|title=Graduation plans grip 'O.C.'|last=Oldenburg|first=Ann|date=December 14, 2005|work=USA Today|publisher=Gannett Company|access-date=September 26, 2008}}

After the eventual cancellation of the show, Schwartz admitted that "the whole first half of the third season was a total mess".{{cite web|url=https://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2007/09/josh_schwartz_on_gossip_girl_a.html|title=Josh Schwartz on 'Gossip Girl' and Avoiding the Mistakes of 'The O.C.'|last=Yuan|first=Jada|date=September 19, 2007|work=New York|publisher=New York Media|access-date=September 29, 2008}}

The third season was nominated for five Teen Choice Awards and won four of them, including "Choice Drama/Action Adventure Show" and "Choice Actor: Drama/Action Adventure", which Adam Brody won for the third consecutive year.{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1538972/20060821/spears_britney.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071001020952/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1538972/20060821/spears_britney.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 1, 2007|title=Britney Introduces K-Fed, Nick Lachey Scores 'Awkward' Award At Teen Choice 2006|date=August 21, 2006|first=Corey|last=Moss|work=MTV.com|publisher=MTV Networks|access-date=September 26, 2008}} IGN faulted a season which, in their opinion, had "far too much time and too many episodes spent with the less than beloved character Johnny". IGN also noted that "Kirsten and Sandy both suffered from unsatisfying stories", and that the departure of character Caleb Nichol had been a mistake "as he had been a great character to bounce off both of the elder Cohens". In September 2007, Schwartz admitted in an interview for New York that the show "went down the wrong road" with Johnny. The season did, however, receive some praise. The new character Taylor Townsend was stated as being "played to perfection by Autumn Reeser" and her character was described as "one of the greatest elements of The O.C." Jeffrey Robinson of DVD Talk described the storylines as "very intelligent and also incorporate a great deal of humor to keep your interest".{{cite web|url=https://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/25060/oc-the-complete-third-season-the/|title=The O.C. - The Complete Third Season|last=Robinson|first=Jeffrey|date=November 14, 2006|work=DVD Talk|publisher=Internet Brands|access-date=September 25, 2008}}

USA Today critic Robert Bianco said that the season premiere was "as dreary and ridiculous as any episode the show ever gave us",{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/columnist/criticscorner/2005-09-07-critics-corner_x.htm|title=What to watch Thursday|last=Bianco|first=Robert|date=September 7, 2005|work=USA Today|publisher=Gannett Company|access-date=September 26, 2008}}

but the season finale was commended by IGN's Eric Goldman for killing off main character Marissa Cooper. Goldman said that "the episode documenting her demise was a fairly strong one" and that the following season "would really pay off this shocking twist". Despite not being the final season it was also noted that the graduation of characters gave "the show a feeling of ending".

The DVD release of season three was released by Warner Bros. in the US on October 24, 2006, after it had completed broadcast on television. As well as every episode from the season, the DVD release features bonus material including a gag reel, featurettes, and the making of a music video by The Subways.

{{refbegin}}

;General

• {{cite web|url=http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/show/CTVShows/20050922/OC-episodes|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061114035553/http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/show/CTVShows/20050922/OC-episodes|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2006|title=Season 3 Episodes|work=CTV.ca|publisher=CTVglobemedia|access-date=September 25, 2008}}
• {{Cite news|title=The O.C. Season 3|work=Canadian Online Explorer|publisher=Quebecor Media}}

;Specific

{{refend}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

• [http://www.theocinsider.com/backstage/episodeguide03.html Episode guide] at Warner Bros.' The OC Insider
• {{IMDb episodes|0362359|The O.C.}}
• [http://www.theocmusic.co.uk The O.C. music guide]

{{The O.C.}}

{{Featured list}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:O.C. Season 3, The}}

Season 3

Category:2005 American television seasons

Category:2006 American television seasons