Ben McKenzie is open to revisiting the teen drama that launched his career, stating in an interview that he would return for a “The OC” reboot under the right circumstances. According to an interview with Sydney radio station KIIS 1065, the actor addressed the possibility of reviving the series despite no official discussions taking place.
The OC Reboot Prospects and Cast Background
McKenzie, currently 47 years old, was 24 when he originated the role of Ryan Atwood, a troubled teenager taken in by wealthy Newport Beach public defender Sandy Cohen, played by Peter Gallagher, and his wife Kirsten Cohen, played by Kelly Rowan. When asked about a potential return by hosts on KIIS 1065, McKenzie stated that while there have never been serious talks, he would be open to the idea. “I don’t know that there has ever been serious talks, but I’d be up for it… Yeah, I think so, under the right circumstances,” McKenzie said, according to the radio interview. He reflected on the production, noting, “It was a great show. We had a great time. I learned a lot. I was so young, we were all young.” At the time of the original broadcast, McKenzie was the oldest member of the core young cast, which also featured Adam Brody, Mischa Barton, and Rachel Bilson.
Did you know? Ben McKenzie was the oldest actor among the core young cast when “The OC” premiered, joining co-stars Adam Brody, Mischa Barton, and Rachel Bilson in Newport Beach.
Sharing the Series With a New Generation
McKenzie shared that he recently showed the show’s pilot episode to his 10-year-old daughter, an experience that led to immediate regret. “I forgot that in the pilot, there is binge drinking, cigarette smoking, cocaine, and a threesome,” McKenzie told KIIS 1065. “Of course, my 10-year-old loved it and wanted to watch more.” Beyond his own family, McKenzie noted that the series continues to resonate with modern audiences, with teenagers who were not yet alive when the show originally aired frequently approaching him to discuss the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Ben McKenzie confirm a “The OC” reboot is happening?
No. According to his interview on KIIS 1065, McKenzie stated that there have never been serious talks about a reboot, though he would be open to participating under the right circumstances.
How old was Ben McKenzie when he played Ryan Atwood?
Ben McKenzie was 24 years old when he began playing the troubled teen Ryan Atwood on “The OC,” making him the oldest actor among the show’s young main cast.
Who else starred in “The OC”?
The core cast of the Fox drama included Peter Gallagher, Kelly Rowan, Adam Brody, Mischa Barton, and Rachel Bilson.
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