Welcome to Your 10th Anniversary, Bitch: Celebrating "The OC"

By Courtney Enlow | TV | August 8, 2013 |

By Courtney Enlow | TV | August 8, 2013 |

A couple weeks back, Emily Nussbaum wrote an excellent article on “Sex and the City” and its minimized role in television history, how its excellence has been whitewashed in favor of placing focus almost solely on its superficial nature and less savory footprints on society.

That’s how I feel about “The OC.”

Ten years ago this week, Josh Schwartz’s seminal teen drama zeitgasm premiered. Then and still today, it is often laughed off, disregarded as bubblegum frivolity with a radio-friendly indie soundtrack.

But, we fans know it was so much more. And, ten years later, my love remains. And I want to celebrate its wonder.

Please read the rest of this post while playing this:

This version would be acceptable as well.

Ryan Atwood. Sigh.

A man of few words, but much angst.

And damn adept at punching things.

But, he’s basicaly a softie.

Don’t think I’ve forgotten about you, Seth Cohen.

Much more than mere comic relief, you were the joyful beating heart of the whole show, and, often, the voice of reason.

The opposite of the voice of reason would be one Marisa Cooper.

I’m sure she feels bad for the dramz, guys.

She probably feels worst about one instance in particular.

But, while her taste in most boys was questionable, she did have pretty amazing taste in girls.

While much whiny focus is placed upon the majorly toxic Ryan and Marisa coupling, the soft and fuzzy center of the show was the adorable relationship between Seth and Summer.

Of course, there was a superior OTP.

Well, make that two. But, chief among them was the pairing of Sandy and Kirsten Cohen.

Because, while they had their issues, they were phenomenal TV parents.

Sandy was basically a hotter Mr. Feeny…

With way better eyebrows.

And, together they created a new family, making Ryan and Seth more than best friends—they were brothers.

Supporting each other in all of life’s best moments.

While the show gave us many gifts, it will be remembered for one above all else.

The uberest of holidays.

Resplendent with accessory opportunities.

Sadly, Newport wasn’t all holiday cheer.

Julie Cooper Nichol was astounding in her greatness. Though, she could be pretty scary.

But, that’s because she was misunderstood.

She also had a sharp mind for business.

But, don’t think Julie was dumb. Chick knew what she was talking about.

Julie was also quite possibly the most self-aware character in the entire series.

Probably because she had quite the past.

Now, the show wasn’t flawless. I mean, what was up with Jeri Ryan’s whole story arc?

Or that time Sandy almost cheated on Kirsten with Kim Delaney?

That said, I loved all four seasons. And if you don’t? Well, we’ll just have to agree to disagree.

So, my sweet show, you weren’t perfect. But I love you anyway.

Yogalates.