The O.c. — Instant Download

Season 4, often overlooked, is the show’s secret masterpiece. Freed from the Ryan/Marissa melodrama, it became a weird, funny, warm comedy. Taylor Townsend (Autumn Reeser), the hyper-controlling perfectionist, was the perfect foil for a grieving Ryan. The season gave us "The Giggling Scene," a Christmas episode that doubles as a French farce, and the most satisfying series finale in teen drama history.

However, Season 2 is where the show famously lost the plot. The introduction of characters like Lindsay (the long-lost half-sister love interest) and the dragged-out Alex/Seth romance felt stale. The show became a victim of its own success, adding too many "quirky" characters. The O.C.

It was a show where a kid from Chino could become a Cohen; where a nerd got the girl; where indie music played over sunsets; and where, even in the middle of a drama, someone would crack a joke about Star Wars . Season 4, often overlooked, is the show’s secret

"The O.C." ran for four seasons, concluding in 2007. During its run, the show developed a devoted fan base, inspiring countless fan fiction, fan art, and charity initiatives. The show's influence can be seen in many subsequent teen dramas, including "Gossip Girl," "Pretty Little Liars," and "Riverdale." The season gave us "The Giggling Scene," a

(Rachel Bilson): Marissa's best friend and Seth’s long-time crush, who evolves from a shallow socialite into a fan-favorite lead. Cultural Impact Premiere | The O.C. Wiki