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Season 1[]

# Image Title Writer Director Air Date
101 OC-S1E01 "Premiere" Josh Schwartz Doug Liman August 5, 2003
After leaving the juvenile prison, young Ryan Atwood is kicked out of the house by his alcoholic mother, but destiny is around the corner, in fact : the lawyer who took care of his case: Sandy Cohen, decides to bring Ryan to a bit at home with him. Despite his wife, Kirsten doesn't completely agree. Arriving at Cohen's home, he meets Seth, the son of the couple, his age with whom he bonds instantaneously, but with the arrival in Newport the problems seem to follow Ryan, and this makes Kirsten reflect on keeping the boy in her family. Will Ryan ever have a real family?
102 OC-S1E02 "The Model Home" Josh Schwartz
Allan Heinberg
Doug Liman August 12, 2003
Marissa and Seth convince Ryan not to leave Newport, and hide him in one of Kirsten's vacant model homes. When Luke confronts Ryan about his relationship with Marissa, their fights ends up setting the model home to fire, getting them both arrested.
103 OC-S1E03 "The Gamble" Jane Espenson Ian Toynton August 19, 2003
Dawn, Ryan's biological mother, comes to visit her son in Newport Beach, but when she and the Cohen's goes to the casino, the excessive drinking of Dawn, only creates big problems. Seeing the disappointment on her son's face, the woman, takes the difficult decision to leaving Ryan, so that he, can live with the Cohen's. Doing perhaps for the first time in his life, what is best for his son, and not what was best for himself.
104 OC-S1E04 "The Debut" Josh Schwartz
Allan Heinberg
Daniel Attias August 26, 2003
Now that Ryan is staying with the Cohens, he must attend the Cotillion Ball, where Newport's finest young ladies enter society. Luke's jealousy results in Ryan escorting Marissa. Jimmy becomes a suspect of a fraud investigation and Holly's dad decides to confront him at the Ball in front of everyone.
105 OC-S1E05 "The Outsider" Melissa Rosenberg Jesús Salvador Treviño September 2, 2003
Ryan gets a job and meets Donnie, a Newport teen from Corona. Seth decides to invite Donnie to Holly's beach party, but his attendance brings Luke to the hospital.
106 OC-S1E06 "The Girlfriend" Debra J. Fisher
Josh Schwartz
Steven Robman September 9, 2003
Kirsten's father, Caleb Nichol, comes to town with his new 24 year-old girlfried, Gabrielle. Marissa isn't ready to pick between Luke and Ryan, but when she walks in on Ryan with Gabrielle, she chooses Luke. Summer's feelings for Seth begin to show. Julie tells Jimmy she wants a divorce.
107 OC-S1E07 "The Escape" Josh Schwartz Sanford Bookstaver September 16, 2003
Marissa doesn't take her parents' divorce well, and when she finds Luke with Holly in Tijuana, she's found passed out in an alley. Kirsten, upset that Sandy is considering the job, finds herself in a compromising position with Jimmy in his new apartment.
108 OC-S1E08 "The Rescue" Allan Heinberg
Melissa Rosenberg
Michael Lange October 29, 2003
Julie blames Ryan for Marissa's incident and tells him to stay away. Sandy starts his new job, and Kirsten is displeased with his new coworker, Rachel. Ryan must take a placement test to determine his enrollment at Harbor. Julie tries to get Marissa to see a therapist in San Diego, contrary to what Jimmy and Marissa want.
109 OC-S1E09 "The Heights" Josh Schwartz
Debra J. Fisher
Erica Messer
Patrick Norris November 5, 2003
Ryan doesn't feel like he belongs at Harbor and Luke doesn't help his situation. Summer keeps her friendship with Seth private, but is jealous of his relationship with Anna. Sandy accepts a case against Caleb at his new job, that will test his relationship with Kirsten.
110 OC-S1E10 "The Perfect Couple" Josh Schwartz
Allan Heinberg
Michael Fresco November 12, 2003
Kirsten becomes worried about Sandy's professional relationship with Rachel. Ryan spots Caleb and Julie together, and becomes responsible for Marissa outing their private relationship at a charity event. Summer tells Seth how she feels.
111 OC-S1E11 "The Homecoming" Josh Schwartz Keith Samples November 19, 2003
Ryan and Marissa go to Chino to visit Trey for Thanksgiving, but he asks Ryan for a favor. Seth must choose between Anna and Summer. Kirsten and Sandy make an attempt to set up Jimmy and Rachel.
112 OC-S1E12 "The Secret" Josh Schwartz James Marshall November 26, 2003
Ryan's trust is put to the test when he and Luke spot Carson with another man. Seth struggles to reconcile with Anna and Summer. Caleb and Julie agree to separate for a while. Jimmy and Sandy go into business together.
113 OC-S1E13 "The Best Chrismukkah Ever" Josh Schwartz
Stephanie Savage
Sanford Bookstaver December 3, 2003
Kirsten learns something about her father that'll help Sandy's case, but will put her job in jeopardy. Ryan's Christmas does not go as planned. Marissa meets someone in therapy. Meanwhile, Seth struggles choosing between Anna and Summer.
114 OC-S1E14 "The Countdown" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco December 17, 2003
Kirsten's sister, Hailey, crashes at the Cohen's home and throws a New Year's Eve party that gets out of control. Ryan is worried about Marissa's relationship with Oliver. Anna decides to spend her night with Seth, without Summer's knowledge.
115 OC-S1E15 "The Third Wheel" Josh Schwartz Sandy Smolan January 7, 2004
Hailey realizes she is no longer welcome at the Cohen residence. Oliver invites the gang to a Rooney concert, but Ryan catches him in a drug deal in the parking lot. Seth has difficulties telling Summer about his relationship with Anna.
116 OC-S1E16 "The Links" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange January 14, 2004
Oliver's friendship with Marissa strains her relationship with Ryan. Summer becomes jealous of Seth and Anna's relationship. Meanwhile, Hailey and Kirsten clash when Kirsten convinces Caleb to cut her off.
117 OC-S1E17 "The Rivals" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton January 21, 2004
Oliver transfers to Harbor, while Ryan risks his academic future to expose him. Seth becomes jealous of Summer's relationship with Danny, forcing him to doubt his relationship with Anna. Meanwhile, Jimmy and Sandy go into business together. Also, Kirsten gets worried about the company when Caleb hires Julie as an interior designer.
118 OC-S1E18 "The Truth" Josh Schwartz Rodman Flender February 11, 2004
Luke starts to see Oliver's true colors after he gets Ryan suspended, but Marissa won't see it. Anna confronts Seth about his relationship with Summer. Meanwhile, Caleb gets Kirsten to break up with Julie for him.
119 OC-S1E19 "The Heartbreak" Josh Schwartz Lev L. Spiro February 18, 2004
Ryan and Marissa need to rebuild trust after the incident with Oliver, but it's hard when Theresa comes to town. Jimmy discovers he has a secret admirer, while Luke spends the night with Julie. Meanwhile, Seth and Sandy have "the talk".
120 OC-S1E20 "The Telenovela" Josh Schwartz Sanford Bookstaver February 25, 2004
Ryan realizes Theresa isn't telling him the truth on why she's staying in Newport. Summer keeps her relationship with Seth private, turning him to Anna for support. Meanwhile, Sandy finds himself in the middle of Caleb's mess. Also, Jimmy suspects something between Julie and Luke.
121 OC-S1E21 "The Goodbye Girl" Josh Schwartz Patrick Norris March 3, 2004
Seth feels guilty when Anna announces she's moving back to Pittsburgh. Legal troubles brew for Caleb and Kirsten, while Sandy works to solve them. Luke and Julie find their secret affair harder to maintain. Meanwhile, Theresa's boyfriend from Chino arrives bringing trouble.
122 OC-S1E22 "The L.A." Josh Schwartz David Barrett March 24, 2004
Ryan, Marissa, Seth and Summer head down to L.A. and find Hailey working as a stripper. Jimmy and Sandy approach Caleb for business help. Meanwhile, Ryan tries to keep Luke and Julie's affair a secret from Marissa.
123 OC-S1E23 "The Nana" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange March 31, 2004
Sandy's mother from Florida comes to Newport for a visit with a different attitude. Ryan searches for Marissa. Summer tries to impress Nana. Jimmy and Hailey take a step forward with their newfound romance.
124 OC-S1E24 "The Proposal" Josh Schwartz Helen Shaver April 14, 2004
Marissa doesn't want to hear what Luke has to say, but gives him a chance after a near-fatal car accident. Meanwhile, Jimmy becomes an obstacle in getting a liquor license. Caleb proposes to Julie.
125 OC-S1E25 "The Shower" Josh Schwartz Sandy Smolan April 21, 2004
Kirsten and Marissa throw a bridal shower for Julie, but Marissa invites Julie's unwanted estranged sister. Theresa calls Sandy for legal advice, but tries to avoid Ryan. Hailey and Jimmy continue their romance. Meanwhile, Summer is disappointed when Seth meets her father.
126 OC-S1E26 "The Strip" Josh Schwartz James Marshall April 28, 2004
While the boys are in Las Vegas, Jimmy and Sandy learn Caleb's true motives. Hailey devises a plan in an attempt to get Caleb to break it off with Julie. Marissa spends the night with Theresa and discovers something that might affect her.
127 OC-S1E27 "The Ties That Bind" Josh Schwartz Patrick Norris May 5, 2004
Caleb and Julie officially get married, and Marissa moves in with them. Ryan and Theresa face a difficult decision regarding her pregnancy. Seth makes a bold move when things around him start to fall apart.

Season 2[]

# Image Title Writer Director Air Date
201 OC-S2E01 "The Distance" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton November 4, 2004
The summer is coming to an end, and Seth hasn't returned home to Newport. In the midst of home renovations, Sandy and Kirsten are strained and missing their son. Ryan has begun his new life with Theresa in Chino, as Marissa is alone and in a dark place. Summer is slowly getting over Seth.
202 OC-S2E02 "The Way We Were" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange November 11, 2004
Now that Ryan and Seth have returned to Newport, its time to get back to school. The boys reunite with their former girlfriends but it becomes apparent that things will not be going back to the way they were. Caleb's legal troubles catch up with him, and Hailey has bad news for Jimmy.
203 OC-S2E03 "The New Kids on the Block" Josh Schwartz Lev L. Spiro November 18, 2004
Seth gets a job at the Bait Shop and turns to his boss for advice on how to rebuild his relationship with Summer. Ryan has a series of mishaps with a new classmate Lindsay they become Physics lab partners and share some romantic chemistry.. Meanwhile, Caleb's legal issues threaten to leave Sandy and Kirsten unemployed.
204 OC-S2E04 "The New Era" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco December 2, 2004
It's a new era in Newport Beach. Kirsten and Julie try and work together at The Newport Group, while Sandy tries to find out what Caleb is hiding. Seth and Ryan go on a double date with Lindsay and Alex, but it ends differently than the four of them might have expected.
205 OC-S2E05 "The SnO.C." Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton December 9, 2004
It's the annual "SnO.C." winter dance. Seth wants to take his relationship with Alex further, but she might have other plans. Marissa's secret relationship with D.J. is exposed, while Zach continues his pursuit of a Seth-free relationship with Summer. Sandy solves Caleb's legal puzzle ending with a shocking twist.
206 OC-S2E06 "The Chrismukkah That Almost Wasn't" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby December 16, 2004
It's Chrismukkah once again in The O.C. and this year, Seth wants to take it global. As Caleb is faced with the looming prospect of going to prison, Sandy convinces him to come forward and reveal the truth about his involvement with Renee. Julie and Jimmy spend some quality time together. Caleb's confession shocks the Cohen and Nichol family to the core, and nothing will be the same again.
207 OC-S2E07 "The Family Ties" Josh Schwartz Lesli Linka Glatter January 6, 2005
After Caleb's confession, The Cohens try to welcome Lindsay as part of the family. Jimmy is faced with a choice when Marissa finds out about his relationship with his ex-wife, Julie. Seth attempts to be a "bad boy" like Ryan to impress Alex. Summer finds out what Zach did on his Christmas break while Ryan and Lindsay want to know if it is too awkward for them to be together.
208 OC-S2E08 "The Power of Love" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange January 13, 2005
When Sandy forgets his and Kirsten's 20th wedding anniversary, he finds himself going to a lot of trouble to make it up to her. Seth and Ryan's respective relationships with Alex and Lindsay add to the trouble, and doubt falls upon their futures together. Marissa and Julie continue to butt heads over DJ, and Summer wants to take her relationship with Zach to the next level.
209 OC-S2E09 "The Ex-Factor" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco January 20, 2005
After a girls' night out, Ryan finds Marissa to blame for a drunk and passed out Lindsay. Alex's ex is in town and Seth is determined to find out who it is. Meanwhile, Julie and Kirsten collaborate to promote Newport Group's image.
210 OC-S2E10 "The Accomplice" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton January 27, 2005
Things heat up between Sandy and Kirsten when Sandy decides to help his mentor in law school find his daughter, Rebecca, whom was Sandy's first love. Seth and Zach start up a comic book based on their lives in Newport, while Summer questions why she's been left out. Ryan makes the attempt to unite Lindsay and Caleb after Lindsay tells Ryan she is curious in getting to know her "new" father. While Julie is in Paris, Marissa looks for new ways to rebel; in doing so, her friendship with Alex increases.
211 OC-S2E11 "The Second Chance" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby February 3, 2005
After hearing about Lindsay and Ryan's failed attempt at dinner with Caleb the night before, Kirsten arranges a dinner that she can supervise. But her presence makes no difference when Ryan and Caleb butt heads and disaster strikes. Sandy keeps Rebecca's presence in Newport a secret from Kirsten after deciding to take her case to court. Marissa and Alex's relationship intensifies, while Seth and Summer spend a lot of time together at Zach's insistence.
212 OC-S2E12 "The Lonely Hearts Club" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton February 10, 2005
It's Valentines Day 2005 in Orange County when Sandy and Kirsten's conflict about Rebecca continues. Ryan tries to make peace with Caleb to spend Valentines Day with Lindsay. While Seth, Zach, and Summer head to San Diego in hope to make their Comic Book idea succeed Seth has a breakdown and ends up in a lonely state. Marissa and Alex take a step forward in their relationship while Julie returns from her trip in hope to reconnect with Marissa.
213 OC-S2E13 "The Father Knows Best" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton February 17, 2005
As Sandy continues working on Rebecca's case, Kirsten questions how strong their feelings are for one another. Seth continues his downward spiral in the aftermath of Zach and Summer's Valentine's night together, while Marissa confronts her fear about her relationship with Alex. Caleb offers Lindsay a place in his family, but not without a paternity test.
214 OC-S2E14 "The Rainy Day Women" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco February 24, 2005
It's a rainy day in Newport where Lindsay decides to take the DNA test and makes a difficult choice regarding her life with Caleb while Ryan helps her through it. Sandy still wants to help Rebecca with her case and tries to convince her not to run again. Kirsten is still upset and wishes her marriage would go back to normal and for Rebecca's case to be over with. Meanwhile, Seth thinks he's lost Summer forever untill Summer is unable to hide from her feelings once and for all. Marissa moves out of the Cooper-Nichol mansion and moves in with Alex after she tells her mother about Alex being her girlfriend.
215 OC-S2E15 "The Mallpisode" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton March 10, 2005
After Lindsay moves to Chicago with her mom, Ryan is heartbroken and Caleb's confused. Seth, Summer, and Marissa invite Ryan to the mall to get his mind off things. Caleb tags along to vent when Sandy tries to make amends with Kirsten by searching for her wedding ring or even a grand gesture that will take her back to when Sandy first proposed. Meanwhile, Alex learns that Marissa might not be as into her as she thought she would be. Kirsten and Julie call an editor for Newport Living but at the same time Julie's Riverside past catches up to her.
216 OC-S2E16 "The Blaze of Glory" Josh Schwartz Robert Duncan McNeill March 17, 2005
Spring has flung in Newport where Marissa recruits Ryan to help her with Harbor School's Pep Rally Bonfire. Alex accepts that her and Marissa are from two different lives and knows she is fighting a lost cause. Seth is stuck and misses last year's good times while Summer disagrees and tells him it's time to move on. Meanwhile, Julie still doesn't know what she is gonna do about her blackmailer and seeks some advice from Sandy. Kirsten wants Carter to stick with the magazine despite his reservations.
217 OC-S2E17 "The Brothers Grim" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange March 24, 2005
When Ryan's brother, Trey, gets out of jail and gives Ryan a call, the Cohens give him a warm welcome. Though, Ryan knows nothing good can come from it. Zach returns from his Italy trip and gives some news leaving Summer curious and Seth not really sure what to think. Meanwhile, after Julie admits her naked mistake to Kirsten, they both agree to get Caleb in on it for more help. Newport Living is officially launched.
218 OC-S2E18 "The Risky Business" Josh Schwartz Norman Buckley April 7, 2005
Sandy reluctantly serves as host/auctioneer at yet another OC benefit; Trey lies to Ryan to prove that he can be self-dependent; Carter reinvigorates Seth and Zach's comic book dream, much to the annoyance of Summer. Marissa moves in with the Cohens.
219 OC-S2E19 "The Rager" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby April 14, 2005
It's Trey's 21st birthday and Marissa, anxious to help Trey and Ryan forge a relationship, throws a birthday party for Trey at the Cooper-Nichol mansion that turns out to be a rager. Seth is left in hot water by both Summer and Zach, but why? Sandy wants to continue his friendship with Carter, leaving a confused Kirsten. Meanwhile, Julie shares some memories with an "old" friend and in the process learns a few things and gains a few ideas.
220 OC-S2E20 "The O.C. Confidential" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby April 21, 2005
Sandy and the boys devise a plan to save Trey from going to jail after he took the fall for supplying drugs at his birthday party. Kirsten and Carter, fulfilling more than their editorial duties, take a trip to Featherbrook's winery. Meanwhile, Caleb returns home and questions his marriage with Julie.
221 OC-S2E21 "The Return of the Nana" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton April 28, 2005
Sandy, Seth and Ryan travel to Miami to visit the Nana after she tells Sandy she is getting married. Unable to go because of work, Kirsten is left on her own to deal with her feelings for Carter. Trey misinterprets Marissa's friendship; Zach invites Summer to a home-cooked dinner.
222 OC-S2E22 "The Showdown" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco May 5, 2005
Seth and Zach declare themselves rivals for Summer's affections; Marissa is still reeling from being nearly raped by Trey; Sandy confronts Kirsten when her drinking problem becomes very apparent; Caleb hands divorce papers to Julie.
223 OC-S2E23 "The O.Sea" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange May 12, 2005
Seth and Zach squabble over who should take Summer to the prom and who will meet George Lucas for dinner; Sandy takes drastic actions with a recovering Kirsten; Ryan starts to piece together what happened between Trey and Marissa, courtesy of Theresa; Julie's attempts to poison Caleb take a surprise turn.
224 OC-S2E24 "The Dearly Beloved" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton May 19, 2005
Kirsten hits rock bottom after Caleb's funeral, prompting Sandy to finally take action; Jimmy Cooper resurfaces and almost immediately renews ties with a mourning Julie; Jess bullies Trey into participating in a drug deal that turns into a shootout; Ryan finally learns the truth about what happened between Trey and Marissa, leading to a bloody confrontation.

Season 3[]

# Image Title Writer Director Air Date
301 OC-S3E01 "The Aftermath" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton September 8, 2005
It has been a couple of months since the shooting. Trey has been in a coma all this time leaving the District Attorney impatiently waiting for his side of the story. Feeling the pressure from the community the D.A. continues to put pressure on Ryan, Marissa, Seth, Summer and others for more information. Meanwhile Julie is steaming mad because Caleb’s accountant won’t give up the goods on Caleb’s will and Kirsten is still in rehab.
302 OC-S3E02 "The Shape of Things to Come" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby September 15, 2005
Social Chair Summer tries to plan this year’s carnival but is having much difficulty due to a little pest named Taylor. Sandy is surprised to find Kirsten has been released from rehab but instead of informing him, she has been living with another woman named Charlotte who she met in rehab. Julie and Sandy meet with the Dean and Dr. Kim to discuss Ryan and Marissa’s future at Harbor High. Later Ryan and Marissa partake in a similar meeting. Elsewhere Jimmy meets a man and feels more than open to discuss his money problems with him.
303 OC-S3E03 "The End of Innocence" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange September 22, 2005
Jimmy must make once more the difficult decision to leave or stay with his family; Kirsten returns to the Cohen household while Charlotte has to leave her house; Marissa and Ryan face a possible separation; Taylor lords over the school musical and makes Summer and Seth her stooges.
304 OC-S3E04 "The Last Waltz" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton September 29, 2005
Marissa begins her first day at Newport Union Public School and Ryan doesn't seem to take a liking to the new friends she's made; Charlotte's true intentions towards Kirsten are revealed; Summer finds out the horrifying truth between the Dean and Taylor; Kirsten has a big decision to make regarding the Company.
305 OC-S3E05 "The Perfect Storm" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby November 3, 2005
Ryan decides to make a life-changing decision that Sandy surprisingly supports, and Marissa turns to her new public school friends for help with Ryan. Meanwhile, Harbor High's Dean of Discipline, Dean Hess, continues his crusade to ruin Ryan's future, and Summer and Seth go on their own crusade to reveal Dean Hess's secret. Meanwhile, Charlotte makes Julie an offer she cannot refuse.
306 OC-S3E06 "The Swells" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco November 10, 2005
Taylor Townsend locks up Seth's night when she throws a Harbor School event that keeps Summer at a distance. Meanwhile, Marissa's new friendships at public school worry Summer and she enlists Ryan's help. Meanwhile, Sandy works on a plan for the Newport Group and forms a new partnership. And Charlotte convinces Julie and Kirsten to edge back into Newport society.
307 OC-S3E07 "The Anger Management" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco November 17, 2005
When the gang heads to The Bait Shop to see The Subways, Taylor's horsing around causes a major rift between Seth and Summer. Marissa, determined to end the potentially explosive rift between Ryan and Volchok, does whatever it takes to watch out for Ryan. Meanwhile, Matt, Sandy's Newport Group partner, goes above and beyond the call of duty; Julie Cooper reigns supreme as the only "bitch" in Orange County; and Ryan needs to use his head for once.
308 OC-S3E08 "The Game Plan" Josh Schwartz Tate Donovan December 1, 2005
As college options are weighed, Seth looks east, Summer west and Taylor looks happy with their possible separation. Ryan, meanwhile, tries to persuade Marissa to go to school at all before Johnny proposes another direction. Elsewhere, Kirsten offers Julie a business opportunity.
309 OC-S3E09 "The Disconnect" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton December 8, 2005
Ryan takes an internship working for Sandy and Matt at the Newport Group, but he ends up working harder to save Matt's reputation. Summer and Seth, determined to get accepted to Brown University, do whatever it takes to stand out at Harbor School. Johnny finally tells Marissa how he really feels. After Ryan and Marissa cross paths, they end up telling each other the truth.
310 OC-S3E10 "The Chrismukkah Bar Mitz-vahkkah" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton December 15, 2005
After the gang spends hours picking out the perfect Christmas trees, they devise a special plan to help a friend in need. Meanwhile, the holidays bring out a somber Summer who misses her mom, and Johnny's sudden misfortune forces him to take matters into his own hands. Kirsten, meanwhile, puts the past behind her and reaches out to Julie Cooper. And when a reminiscing Seth vows to put a little "mukkah" into Ryan's "Chris," Ryan gets Bar-Mitz-vahkkahed on the third annual O.C. "Chrismukkah" episode.
311 OC-S3E11 "The Safe Harbor" Josh Schwartz
Mike Kelley
Tony Wharmby January 11, 2006
Summer, Seth and Ryan launch a mission-impossible campaign to get Marissa back into Harbor, and Johnny struggles between a friend's happiness and his own feelings. Meanwhile, Sandy must make an ethical decision that could change Marissa's fate, and Julie Cooper and Dr. Roberts are apprehensive about admitting to the lies they have told their daughters.
312 OC-S3E12 "The Sister Act" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton January 19, 2006
Kaitlin Cooper, returns to the O.C. during her winter break from an exclusive Montecito boarding school, bringing a lot of attitude and a few secrets of her own. Much more in the mold of her mother Julie Cooper than her sister Marissa, Kaitlin turns heads as she tries to get closer to her family the only way she knows how.
313 OC-S3E13 "The Pot Stirrer" Josh Schwartz Norman Buckley January 26, 2006
While Marissa does all she can to get to know her sister, Kaitlin just stirs up trouble for the gang as she prepares to celebrate her birthday. Sandy encourages Seth about college, but Seth finds a better alternative. Sandy and Matt work together to secure a contract for the new hospital. And Julie continues her quest to put her family back together again.
314 OC-S3E14 "The Cliffhanger" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange February 2, 2006
Summer discovers the truth about Cohen, while Sandy and Matt encounter an obstacle with their hospital project. Meanwhile, Kirsten and Julie take their matchmaking business a little too far, causing Julie to go into hiding. Marissa finally tells Johnny how she truly feels and Kaitlin wonders which "Cooper" Johnny really likes. When Johnny and Kaitlin head to the beach, Kaitlin finds Johnny at the edge of reason.
315 OC-S3E15 "The Heavy Lifting" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton February 9, 2006
Tragic news forces the gang to sort out their problems and face the reality of the situation. After Sadie arrives in Newport, Ryan helps her move and get rid of Volchok, causing Ryan to question his and Marissa's relationship. Meanwhile, Kaitlin's winter break is over - just as she gets close to her family, she once again has to say goodbye. Will she ever return to the O.C.? And in the wake of Newport's latest events, Kirsten and Julie press on with their Valentine's Day party.
316 OC-S3E16 "The Road Warrior" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange March 9, 2006
Summer asks Julie and Kirsten, via their matchmaking company, to find a woman for her father. Ryan helps Sadie find her trouble-ridden uncle Jack, and Sadie wants to collect. Marissa is yet again involved in another police investigation, and she and Ryan break up.
317 OC-S3E17 "The Journey" Josh Schwartz Roxann Dawson March 16, 2006
Summer and Julie talk about the latter's relationship with Dr. Roberts. Sandy goes to jail to visit Dawn Atwood. Volchok insists a little too much to have a talk with Marissa. Matt comes to her rescue. Later, she decides not to go to Ryan's birthday party, goes to the beach and rings Volchok, to talk to him. The episode ends with Marissa resting her head on Volchok's shoulder.
318 OC-S3E18 "The Undertow" Josh Schwartz Robert Duncan McNeill March 23, 2006
Ryan has problems opening up to Sadie. Henry Griffin drops by the Newport Group and wants to talk to Sandy about problems with Matt's personal life. Taylor helps Seth and Summer deal with their couple problems. Marissa shows weakness towards Volchok, and one thing leads to another.
319 OC-S3E19 "The Secrets and Lies" Josh Schwartz Michael Fresco March 30, 2006
Julie and Dr. Roberts announce their engagement; Marissa seeks solace with some bad company. Ryan tries to move on with Sadie, Kirsten surprises Seth with a night out, and Sandy's woes with Matt continue.
320 OC-S3E20 "The Day After Tomorrow" Josh Schwartz Norman Buckley April 6, 2006
The college acceptance and rejection letters arrive leaving the kids to consider their future. Taylor organises a college bonfire party ; Summer and Marissa fix their problems. Seth tells Summer she should go to brown but he will go elswhere causing them to break up.
321 OC-S3E21 "The Dawn Patrol" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton April 13, 2006
Ryan visits his mother but there's a problem. Taylor and Summer aim to find out Seth's secret. Julie helps Marissa out of a bad situation. Sandy solves his work problems but hurts Kirsten in the process.
322 OC-S3E22 "The College Try" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby April 20, 2006
Graduation is just weeks away and Ryan, Seth, Summer and Marissa leave Newport to attend their respective pre-frosh orientations at UC Berkeley and Brown. Kirsten is surprised by who she sees at the airport. Seth is surprised by who he meets at Brown. Later, Sandy and Kirsten attend a hospital benefit where Kirsten returns to an old habit.
323 OC-S3E23 "The Party Favor" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange April 27, 2006
Taylor hits a high at prom, while Summer falls flat with her date. Seth and Anna plan to win Summer back. Marissa convinces Volchok to go to the prom and Ryan brings an unexpected old flame. When one of the girls is elected prom queen, it truly becomes a night to remember. Later, Taylor's prom funds are missing and Ryan returns to his old ways.
324 OC-S3E24 "The Man of the Year" Josh Schwartz Tony Wharmby May 4, 2006
Ryan and Volchok make a deal. Sandy is named Man of The Year. Marissa goes to visit Kaitlin at boarding school. Meanwhile, Theresa has to make a difficult decision.
325 OC-S3E25 "The Graduates" Josh Schwartz
Bob DeLaurentis
Ian Toynton May 18, 2006
After the graduation ceremonies Ryan has to face Volchok's threat. Marissa decides to help Ryan, because without her, he would have never been dragged into the problems with her recent affair. Although they pay off Volchok, season 3 ends tragically.

Season 4[]

# Image Title Writer Director Air Date
401 OC-S4E01 "The Avengers" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton November 2, 2006
Ryan works and lives in a bar, Seth works in a comic book store, Taylor lies about being in Paris and Summer has become a tree-hugging vegan. What madness is going throughout Orange County?
402 OC-S4E02 "The Gringos" Josh Schwartz
John Stephens
Patrick Norris November 8, 2006
Seth tags along with Ryan who travels to Enseniada, Mexico to look for the fugitive Volchok, and tries to hold off Ryan from doing something drastic. Back in Newport, there is a clothing drive at Harbor High, where Julie persuades Kaitlin to participate in it, until she learns Kaitlin's true agenda. At Brown University, Taylor pays Summer a surprise visit, but does not want to confide in her about her problems of her own back in France.
403 OC-S4E03 "The Cold Turkey" Josh Schwartz Michael Lange November 9, 2006
Volchok turns to Sandy for advice, without Ryan's knowledge. Summer prepares to face life in Newport as she returns from Brown. Meanwhile, Julie finds herself alone on Thanksgiving when she is not welcome in the Cohen's house.
404 OC-S4E04 "The Metamorphosis" Josh Schwartz
Leila Gerstein
Norman Buckley November 16, 2006
Summer soul-searches during a visit from Seth. Taylor pleads for Ryan's help with her marriage. Sandy longs for a guys' night. Julie vows to turn over a new leaf in moving on from Marissa's Death.
405 OC-S4E05 "The Sleeping Beauty" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton November 30, 2006
Ryan can't sleep, and a smitten Taylor tries to seduce him by becoming his sleep therapist. Meanwhile, Seth vows not to call Summer, and Kaitlin struggles when Julie has a fling with her tennis instructor. Summer and Che take their activism to a new level, but pay the consequences later.
406 OC-S4E06 "The Summer Bummer" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton
Michael Lange
December 7, 2006
Summer gets kicked out Brown, thanks to her friend Che. Seth leaves Newport to visit Summer at Brown, but runs into Che. Ryan has fantasies about Taylor after kissing each other. And Kaitlin throws a party at Dr. Roberts house to get even with a popular girl. Meanwhile, Julie learns NewMatch is no longer just a dating service.
407 OC-S4E07 "The Chrismukk-huh?" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton December 14, 2006
Ryan and Taylor fall off a ladder and end up in the hospital. Taylor confronts Veronica about her attitude. Meanwhile, a letter from Marissa is sent to the Cohen house.
408 OC-S4E08 "The Earth Girls Are Easy" Josh Schwartz Norman Buckley December 28, 2006
Ryan plans a surprise trip for Taylor, but Seth comes along and brings Summer, whose future is at stake. Meanwhile, Bullit gets an old friend to take care of Julie's accounting, much to her displease.
409 OC-S4E09 "The My Two Dads" Josh Schwartz Michael Schultz January 4, 2007
Kaitlin fails a class presentation and is forced to work with a smart classmate, whom she ends up liking. Seth and Summer move forward with their plans, regardless of how they really feel. Sandy confronts Frank on why he's in Newport.
410 OC-S4E10 "The French Connection" Josh Schwartz John Stephens January 11, 2007
Henri-Michel tells Ryan about Taylor's life in France, forcing him to question their relationship. Seth seeks Dr. Roberts' permission to marry Summer. Kaitlin realizes she likes Will. Summer reconnects with Holly and worries about her future. Meanwhile, Kirsten makes a shocking discovery at NewMatch.
411 OC-S4E11 "The Dream Lover" Josh Schwartz Patrick Norris January 17, 2007
Che brings Seth on a trip to the forest. Taylor decides she should no longer see Ryan. Julie begs for Kirsten's reconciliation. Kaitlin shuts Will out of her life.
412 OC-S4E12 "The Groundhog Day" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton January 25, 2007
Ryan tries to act like he doesn't miss Taylor, who is seeing a therapist. Kirsten's turning 40, but has her mind focused on other things. Julie is having an affair that Kaitlin does all she can to stop. Che makes a discovery about Seth.
413 OC-S4E13 "The Case of the Franks" Josh Schwartz Norman Buckley February 1, 2007
Ryan and Taylor devise a plan to bring Julie and Frank closer, but Kaitlin tries to keep Bullit in Julie's personal life. Summer begins to have doubts in her relationship with Seth. Kirsten opens up about her past with Jimmy to Sandy as they prepare for their new baby.
414 OC-S4E14 "The Shake Up" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton February 8, 2007
Kaitlin does all she can to sabotage Julie and Frank's relationship. Ryan and Taylor tell each other how they feel. Summer encourages Seth to find something he's passionate about. Kirsten realizes what Newport's society is all about. As the night comes to a close, an earthquake hits Newport Beach.
415 OC-S4E15 "The Night Moves" Josh Schwartz Patrick Norris February 15, 2007
After the earthquake, Ryan tells Seth he needs to get to the hospital, but doesn't want to worry Taylor. An aftershock leaves Kirsten wondering if her unborn baby is still alive. Taylor takes control when Summer and she hear an intruder in their home. Kaitlin and Julie are trapped in an ice cream store.
416 OC-S4E16 "The End's Not Near, It's Here" Josh Schwartz Ian Toynton February 22, 2007
Six months after the trauma of the Newport earthquake, Ryan and the rest of the Cohens struggle with their living arrangements in the aftermath of the destruction of their house. Both Ryan and Taylor struggle with their feelings for each other despite knowing that they have nothing in common. Seth feels he's keeping Summer back from her activist work programs, but does not want to let go of her. Meanwhile, Julie, whom is now three months pregnant herself, is planning her upcoming wedding to Gordon Bullit, but Kaitlin realizes that she is not over Frank Atwood. Seth and Ryan visit the old house that Sandy and Kirsten lived in before there move to Newport Beach. When they pressure Sandy and Kirsten to visit their old house, where a gay couple now resides there, Kirsten happens to go into labor, and soon, Julie's wedding becomes Kirsten's baby birth scene.
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