In episode 22 of the Young Entertainment Podcast, Mordechai and Daniella are chatting about all things The O.C., the timeless and iconic series that ran from 2003 to 2007. We walk through our first experiences watching, our favorite friendships and character development, and the most iconic music from the show. Love The O.C. just as much as us? Tune in!

The O.C. follows the lives of a group of teenagers and their families living in Newport Beach. Troubled teen Ryan Atwood is taken in by a public defender and his family, quickly befriending their son Seth Cohen. Ryan also gains a love interest in Marissa, the girl next door who is best friends with Summer. The show starred Ben McKenzie, Adam Brody, Mischa Barton, Rachel Bilson, Peter Gallagher, and more!

Because it was the early 2000s, it was a time before social media and Mordechai remembered tuning in every week, with the excitement of knowing hundreds of thousands of people were also watching at the same time. 

Mordechai: “From a TV standpoint, [The O.C.] stuck with me.”

While the show took place in a high-class neighborhood in Orange County, there were so many themes of finding community and self-identity, and of family and friendships. Mordechai revealed watching the show helped him navigate high school and while Daniella is now watching for the first time, she still realizes how impactful it must have been.

Daniella: “I recently started watching it and I am obsessed.”

The O.C. also just made ‘uncool’ things cool, from one of the best on-screen friendships between opposites Seth and Ryan, and also Seth’s love of comic books. 

Mordechai: “The Marvel Cinematic Universe came about because of Seth Cohen”

We also recapped our favorite episodes of all time, with Mordechai raving about The Countdown from season one, in which Kirsten’s sister Hailey causes turmoil on New Years Eve and Ryan and Marissa take a big step in their relationship, which throws Ryan. 

Mordechai and Daniella also took a walk down memory lane, recapping all the incredible actors that have come from the show. From Olivia Wilde as Alex Kelly to Chris Pratt as Che and even a cameo from Paris Hilton, we’re going to need another rewatch to see all the iconic guest stars.

Daniella: “Everyone from the core cast has gone on to do big things.”

We also need to mention the music in the show, and how The O.C. soundtrack defined a generation. Hide and Seek from Imogen Heap, Champagne Supernova by Oasis, what was your favorite song from the show?

We end this episode by playing a round of firsts and favorites. If you watch The O.C., we want to hear from you! We’ll be releasing episodes each week so don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned!

Consider this: 

• It is possible to have a long and successful acting career. There are so many people who have done it, so while thinking about the future may be scary, find inspiration in those who have also made their dreams happen.