Peter Gallagher still can’t believe The O.C.’s lasting impact more than 20 years after the show’s premiere.

“It was one of the greatest roles I could ever play because there are so many people in the world who haven’t really been fathered enough and it was great to play a father,” Gallagher, 70, exclusively told Us Weekly at the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights’ 2025 Ripple of Hope Gala on Tuesday, December 9. “It was a real gift.”

When The O.C. premiered in August 2003, the teen drama turned actors like Mischa Barton, Ben McKenzie, Rachel Bilson and Adam Brody into huge stars.

Although the show came to an end in 2007 after four seasons, new fans are enjoying the Fox series every day through streaming services.

The O.C.'s Most Memorable Side Characters: Where Are They Now?

“I’m deeply g

See Full Page