The O.C. (2003)

Kernel Score: 87% · 907 ratings

Genres: Drama

First aired: 2003-08-05

Seasons: 4 · 92 episodes

Where to watch The O.C.

  • Stream: Hulu, HBO Max
  • Rent: Prime Video
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Fandango At Home

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Ryan Atwood, a teen from the wrong side of the tracks, moves in with a wealthy family willing to give him a chance. But Ryan's arrival disturbs the status quo of the affluent, privileged community of Newport Beach, California.

The O.C. parents' guide: ages 12+

Parents need to know that The O.C. is a TV-14 teen drama with romance, class conflict, and mature teen storylines set in wealthy Newport Beach.

  • Sex, romance & nudity: Moderate — Teen romance and relationship drama are central, consistent with its TV-14 rating.
  • Language: Some — Occasional mild-to-moderate language typical of a TV-14 teen drama.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official TV-14 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Cast

  • Peter Gallagher as Sandy Cohen
  • Kelly Rowan as Kirsten Cohen
  • Ben McKenzie as Ryan Atwood
  • Adam Brody as Seth Cohen
  • Melinda Clarke as Julie Cooper
  • Rachel Bilson as Summer Roberts
  • Autumn Reeser as Taylor Townsend
  • Willa Holland as Kaitlin Cooper

The O.C. FAQ

Is The O.C. good?

The O.C. has an 87% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 907 audience ratings.

Where can I watch The O.C.?

In the US you can stream The O.C. on Hulu and HBO Max and rent it from Prime Video.

Is The O.C. OK for kids?

The O.C. is rated TV-14. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 12+. Parents need to know that The O.C. is a TV-14 teen drama with romance, class conflict, and mature teen storylines set in wealthy Newport Beach.

What shows are like The O.C.?

If you liked The O.C., try Nancy Drew, One Tree Hill, Heartstopper and The Summer I Turned Pretty.