List of The O.C. episodes

The following is a list episodes from the FOX television series, The O.C..

A total of 27 episodes were aired for the first season of The O.C., 24 for the second season, 25 for the third season, and 16 for the fourth season. The total number of episodes that were produced stands at 92. The show's series finale aired on February 22, 2007 on FOX.

Episodes

Season 1: 2003-2004

Screenshot	Title	Writer(s)	Director	Original Airdate	# season	# total
1	"Premiere"	Josh Schwartz	Doug Liman	August 5, 2003	1
A new life for Ryan Atwood, the Cohens and the Coopers, and basically everyone else in the wealthy, picturesque, secretive, turbulent community of Orange County, California.
2	"The Model Home"	Allan Heinberg & Josh Schwartz	Doug Liman	August 12, 2003	2
Faced with the prospect of life in a group home, Ryan decides to run away from Newport, but Seth and Marissa convince him to stay and hide in one of Kirsten's vacant building projects. Jimmy discusses his recent financial woes with Kirsten, so she offers a solution. After Luke misinterprets an encounter between Marissa and Ryan, he confronts Ryan and a fight breaks loose, burning down Kirsten's "model home" in the process. Luke and Ryan are arrested.
3	"The Gamble"	Jane Espenson	Ian Toynton	August 19, 2003	3
Sandy comes to Ryan's rescue once again after he has a difficult stay in juvie hall. Seth makes Kirsten aware of his anger over Ryan's situation, so Kirsten makes a compromise. Ryan's mother, Dawn, makes a surprise visit to Newport, and things don't go quite as she and Ryan may have planned. The monetary secret involving Julie, Jimmy, Kirsten and Sandy comes to a head. Also, Marissa chooses Luke over Ryan.
4	"The Debut"	Allan Heinberg & Josh Schwartz	Daniel Attias	August 26, 2003	4
It's time for the annual Cotillion Ball. Cherished by many, hated by most, it's the time when Newport's finest young ladies enter society. Luke and Marissa break up, so Ryan does the honourable thing and escorts her at her Cotillion. More information about Jimmy's business trouble comes to light when Holly's father punches him at Cotillion, yelling, "Thief! He's a thief!" Not how Jimmy wanted everyone to find out.
5	"The Outsider"	Melissa Rosenberg	Jesús Salvador Treviño	September 2, 2003	5
Ryan takes a job at the Crab Shack diner. Donny, a co-worker at the diner, means bad news for the Newport kids. Ryan asks Marissa out on a date. Sandy attempts to help Jimmy sort out his life, but gives him some bad news. Julie reveals her plans to divorce Jimmy. Disaster strikes at another one of Holly's parties after Ryan's co-worker shoots Luke.
6	"The Girlfriend"	Josh Schwartz & Debra J. Fisher	Steve Robman	September 9, 2003	6
Kirsten's uptight father, Caleb Nichol, comes for a visit along with his new girlfriend, Gabrielle, a 24-year-old fashion model. Kirsten finds her job in jeopardy. To Ryan's disappointment, Luke decides he wants a second chance with Marissa, but she chooses Ryan. However Ryan makes out with Gabrielle in the pool house, so Marissa lets Luke be her "first". Summer makes a move on Seth.
7	"The Escape"	Josh Schwartz	Sanford Bookstaver	September 16, 2003	7
The Newport kids plan an end-of-summer trip down to Tijuana, Mexico. Marissa and Luke break up once again (this time for good) after she catches him with Holly Fischer. Sandy gets a new job, which Kirsten can't understand. Jimmy and Julie announce their divorce. Marissa ODs on painkillers and tequila.
8	"The Rescue"	Melissa Rosenberg & Allan Heinberg	Michael Lange	October 29, 2003	8
Everyone is back home in Newport and Marissa is recovering. Julie unfairly blames Ryan for the incident and forbids him from seeing Marissa, who does not appreciate the help. Sandy starts his new job, but finds himself surprised by the heavy casework. Kirsten finds herself surprised by Sandy's hot new co-worker, Rachel. Ryan enrolls at Harbor High School. Julie betrays Jimmy and Marissa.
9	"The Heights"	Debra J. Fisher & Erica Messer	Patrick Norris	November 5, 2003	9
During the opening day of the new school year at Harbor High, Ryan doesn't feel like he fits in at his new school and of course Luke doesn't make the situation any better. Sandy accepts a case at his new job, a case that will test his relationship with Kirsten and her father. Anna and Seth hatch a plan for Seth to win Summer over. Marissa and Ryan share their first kiss while stuck on the ferris wheel.
10	"The Perfect Couple"	Allan Heinberg	Michael Fresco	November 12, 2003	10
Couples are plentiful in Orange County. It is a night of firsts. Now that they are free to love one another, Ryan and Marissa plan their first official date. Kirsten sees her father with a new woman, and fears Sandy has found a new woman of his own. Summer passionately kisses Seth and admits she likes him, but if he tells anyone he's dead.
11	"The Homecoming"	Josh Schwartz & Brian Oh	Keith Samples	November 19, 2003	11
It's Thanksgiving time in Orange County. It's time for family reunions, and Ryan gets called home by his family. Is it because of the holiday, or is it for a favor? Marissa decides to go along for the ride, but ends up going down Ryan's bad-memory lane instead. Back in Newport, Seth plays the player role, but not very well by inviting both Anna and Summer over at his house.
12	"The Secret"	Allan Heinberg & Josh Schwartz	James Marshall	November 26, 2003	12
Seth and Kirsten want to avoid facing the world after their respective displays at Thanksgiving. Sandy has some advice for Jimmy, which doesn't sit well with Julie. Ryan and Luke find themselves getting along after Luke's father comes out of the closet to face negative reactions.
13	"The Best Chrismukkah Ever"	Stephanie Savage	Sanford Bookstaver	December 3, 2003	13
Ryan, and the World, are officially introduced to the bi-religious holiday Chrismukkah, thanks to Seth. Marissa has some 'discount shopping' to do, and finds herself in an embarrassing situation. Kirsten does something that could cost her more than just her job. Summer and Anna each have very special gifts for Seth. And a new boy enters the Newport scene.
14	"The Countdown"	Josh Schwartz	Michael Fresco	December 17, 2003	14
On New Year's Eve, Kirsten's outgoing and spoiled younger sister Hailey, notorious for not doing anything with her life, arrives in Newport for a visit, and shows her true unwholesome colors by locking Ryan and Seth in the pool house to throw a wild house party. Oliver casts his spell over Marissa by inviting her to his penthouse New Year's Party. Seth finally makes a decision between Summer and Anna.
15	"The Third Wheel"	Melissa Rosenberg	Sandy Smolan	January 7, 2004	15
Hailey discovers she isn't as welcome as she might have thought because of her irresponsible habits and lifestyle. Oliver invites the gang to a concert where the band Rooney is performing. There, the outcast Luke makes some new friends, while Seth and Anna try to tell Summer about them being together. Also, trouble brews when Ryan catches Oliver in the mist of a drug buying deal in the parking lot.
16	"The Links"	Debra J. Fisher & Erica Messer	Michael Lange	January 14, 2004	16
Oliver plans another trip for the gang by taking them to a golf course in Palm Springs. Jimmy and Sandy decide to go into business together. Caleb and Julie return from Europe, and Hailey and Kirsten butt heads. Ryan finds himself in the cold when he expresses his thoughts to Marissa that Oliver is not what he appears to be.
17	"The Rivals"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	January 21, 2004	17
Sandy and Jimmy have plans to sign papers for the Lighthouse... but is Jimmy ready? Oliver makes his presence known by transferring to Harbor High, and Ryan's attempts to expose him for who he really is is met with negative reactions from everybody. When the devious Oliver makes his plans official to Ryan, he finds himself in an all too familiar position. Summer has a "big" new boyfriend... for a little while. And Julie gets a job.
18	"The Truth"	Allan Heinberg	Rodman Flender	February 11, 2004	18
Changes are happening within the couple hoods of the O.C.ers. Thanks to Oliver, Ryan gets suspended from school and is shunned by everyone, who refuse to believe him that Oliver is a dangerous psychopath and obsessed with Marissa. Only Luke believes Ryan and offers to help him. Seth drifts further apart from Anna and is drawn to Summer. Oliver finally loses it all when Marissa rejects him and he holds her hostage with a gun.
19	"The Heartbreak"	Josh Schwartz	Lev L. Spiro	February 18, 2004	19
It's Valentine's Day in Newport, and everyone is preparing for the Valentine's singles benefit. Luke has a new crush: Marissa's mother Julie. Sandy gives Seth some sex advice about wanting to go all the way. Theresa, an old friend of Ryan's, shows up in town, which forces Marissa to lay her feelings on the table. Seth and Summer take their relationship to another level.
20	"The Telenovela"	Stephanie Savage	Sanford Bookstaver	February 25, 2004	20
Ryan and Marissa begin their life together as "friends", but both discover that it might be harder to do than to say. Theresa drops into Newport for work, and another visit. Julie and Luke realize the meaning of "booty calls", and Seth and Summer make a declaration.
21	"The Goodbye Girl"	Josh Schwartz	Patrick Norris	March 3, 2004	21
Anna announces that she is leaving Newport to go back to Pittsburgh, which leaves Seth feeling saddened and guilt-ridden for the way he treated her. Legal troubles brew for Caleb and Kirsten while Sandy works to solve them. Luke and Julie's secret romance is getting harder to contain, and Theresa brings a bit of trouble from Chino to the O.C. in the form of her possessive boyfriend.
22	"The L.A."	Josh Schwartz	David M. Barrett	March 24, 2004	22
When Summer and Marissa run into Grady Bridges, the star of Summer's favourite prime-time soap 'The Valley', he invites them to a party in Los Angeles, and they accept. At the L.A. party, Seth, Summer, Marissa, and Ryan run into Hailey, now working at a strip club. Jimmy and Sandy present their restaurant to Newport's finest and approach Caleb for some financial help. Special Guest Star: Paris Hilton
23	"The Nana"	Allan Heinberg	Michael Lange	March 31, 2004	23
Sandy's overbearing and obnoxious mother, Sofia "Nana" Cohen (Linda Lavin) arrives in California for Passover with some sad news. Ryan searches for Marissa, who'd gone missing after learning Julie and Luke's romantic secret, and he finds her in the most unlikely of places. Summer tries to impress Nana. Jimmy and Hailey take a step forward with their newfound romance.
24	"The Proposal"	Liz Friedman & Josh Schwartz	Helen Shaver	April 14, 2004	24
Jimmy and Sandy run into a roadblock in their effort to re-open the Balboa Lighthouse restaurant. Summer and Seth take it upon themselves to finally make Marissa feel more at home at Jimmy's. Everyone is shocked when Caleb makes a proposal, which sparks a near-fatal car accident for Luke. Marissa, and Sandy and Jimmy each strike deals with Caleb. Luke moves away to Portland to live with his father.
25	"The Shower"	J.J. Philbin	Sandy Smolan	April 21, 2004	25
Everyone is still reacting to the surprise engagement of Julie and Caleb. Kirsten is shocked, and a little burdened to find she's been asked to be Julie's Maid of Honor. Kirsten and Marissa end up in charge of throwing Julie's wedding shower, and Marissa invites an unwanted guest, that of Julie's estranged sister Cindy. Theresa calls Sandy for help and tries to avoid Ryan. Jimmy and Hailey continue their romance, and Seth awkwardly meets Summer's father.
26	"The Strip"	Allan Heinberg	James Marshall	April 28, 2004	26
It's Bachelor and Bachelorette party time for Caleb and Julie. Caleb and the boys head off to Las Vegas while Kirsten organizes an evening at the Cohen house for Julie, strippers included. Jimmy and Sandy learn of Caleb's true motives. Julie and Hailey take a swim and a catfight, while Theresa has some shocking news for Ryan and Marissa.
27	"The Ties That Bind"	Josh Schwartz	Patrick Norris	May 5, 2004	27
Julie and Caleb officially get married, as Ryan and Theresa face a difficult decision regarding her pregnancy. Marissa moves into Caleb and Julie's new castle on the cliff, and Seth struggles to find himself when things around him seem to fall apart. Life in The O.C. comes full circle from one year before.

Season 2: 2004-2005

Screenshot	Title	Writer(s)	Director	Original Airdate	# season	# total
28	"The Distance"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	November 4, 2004	1
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.
29	"The Way We Were"	Allan Heinberg	Michael Lange	November 11, 2004	2
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.
30	"The New Kids on the Block"	Stephanie Savage	Lev L. Spiro	November 18, 2004	3
After being released from jail, Caleb appoints Julie instead of Kirsten as CEO of the Newport Group. Seth wants to win Summer back as a friend and starts working at the Bait Shop. Ryan meets a new girl at school, Lindsay.
31	"The New Era"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Fresco	December 2, 2004	4
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.
32	"The SnO.C."	John Stephens	Ian Toynton	December 9, 2004	5
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.
33	"The Chrismukkah That Almost Wasn't"	Josh Schwartz	Tony Wharmby	December 16, 2004	6
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.
34	"The Family Ties"	Drew Greenberg & Josh Schwartz	Lesli Glatter	January 6, 2005	7
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.
35	"The Power of Love"	John Stephens	Michael Lange	January 13, 2005	8
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.
36	"The Ex-Factor"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Fresco	January 20, 2005	9
Alex's ex visits her and Seth is surprised that the ex is female. He, Ryan and Zach want to have a guys' night in, while Marissa, Summer and Lindsay go to the Bait Shop. Julie wants to launch a magazine to improve the Newport Group's image.
37	"The Accomplice"	Allan Heinberg	Ian Toynton	January 27, 2005	10
Things heat up between Sandy and Kirsten when Sandy decides to help his mentor in law school find his daughter. 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 father. While Julie is in Paris, Marissa looks for new ways to rebel; in doing so, her friendship with Alex increases.
38	"The Second Chance"	Drew Greenberg & Josh Schwartz	Tony Wharmby	February 3, 2005	11
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.
39	"The Lonely Hearts Club"	J.J. Philbin	Ian Toynton	February 10, 2005	12
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.
40	"The Test"	John Stephens	Michael Lange	February 17, 2005	13
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.
41	"The Rainy Day Women"	Josh Schwartz	Michael Fresco	February 24, 2005	14
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. Marissa moves out of the Cooper-Nichol mansion and moves in with Alex after she tells her mother about Alex being her girlfriend.
42	"The Mallpisode"	Stephanie Savage	Ian Toynton	March 10, 2005	15
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.
43	"The Blaze of Glory"	Mike Kelley	Robert Duncan McNeill	March 17, 2005	16
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, Kirsten wants Carter to stick with the magazine despite his reservations.
44	"The Brothers Grim"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Lange	March 24, 2005	17
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.
45	"The Risky Business"	Cory Martin	Norman Buckley	April 7, 2005	18
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.
46	"The Rager"	John Stephens	Tony Wharmby	April 14, 2005	19
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.
47	"The O.C. Confidential"	Mike Kelley	Tony Wharmby	April 21, 2005	20
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.
48	"The Return of the Nana"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	April 28, 2005	21
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.
49	"The Showdown"	John Stephens	Michael Fresco	May 5, 2005	22
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.
50	"The O.Sea"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Lange	May 12, 2005	23
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.
51	"The Dearly Beloved"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	May 19, 2005	24
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: 2005-2006

Screenshot	Title	Writer(s)	Director	Original Airdate	# season	# total
52	"The Aftermath"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	September 8, 2005	1
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.
53	"The Shape of Things to Come"	J.J. Philbin	Tony Wharmby	September 15, 2005	2
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. 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.
54	"The End of Innocence"	Stephanie Savage	Michael Lange	September 22, 2005	3
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.
55	"The Last Waltz"	John Stephens	Ian Toynton	September 29, 2005	4
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.
56	"The Perfect Storm"	Mike Kelley	Tony Wharmby	November 3, 2005	5
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.
57	"The Swells"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Fresco	November 10, 2005	6
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, Charlotte convinces Julie and Kirsten to edge back into Newport society while Julie figures out Charlottes real intentions.
58	"The Anger Management"	John Stephens	Michael Fresco	November 17, 2005	7
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.
59	"The Game Plan"	Cory Martin	Tate Donovan	December 1, 2005	8
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.
60	"The Disconnect"	Stephanie Savage	Tony Wharmby	December 8, 2005	9
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.
61	"The Chrismukkah Bar-Mitzvahkkah"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	December 15, 2005	10
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 sombre Summer who misses her mom, and Johnny's sudden misfortune forces him to take matters into his own hands. 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.
62	"The Safe Harbor"	Mike Kelley	Tony Wharmby	January 12, 2006	11
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.
63	"The Sister Act"	Leila Gerstein	Ian Toynton	January 19, 2006	12
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 mould 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.
64	"The Pot Stirrer"	John Stephens	Norman Buckley	January 26, 2006	13
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.
65	"The Cliffhanger"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Lange	February 2, 2006	14
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.
66	"The Heavy Lifting"	Stephanie Savage	Ian Toynton	February 9, 2006	15
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. And in the wake of Newport's latest events, Kirsten and Julie press on with their Valentine's Day party.
67	"The Road Warrior"	Mike Kelley	Michael Fresco	March 9, 2006	16
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.
68	"The Journey"	John Stephens	Roxann Dawson	March 16, 2006	17
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.
69	"The Undertow"	Mark Fish & J.J. Philbin	Robert Duncan McNeill	March 23, 2006	18
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.
70	"The Secrets and Lies"	Stephanie Savage & Josh Schwartz	Michael Fresco	March 30, 2006	19
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.
71	"The Day After Tomorrow"	Leila Gerstein	Norman Buckley	April 6, 2006	20
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 elsewhere causing them to break up
72	"The Dawn Patrol"	Mike Kelley	Ian Toynton	April 13, 2006	21
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.
73	"The College Try"	J.J. Philbin	Tony Wharmby	April 20, 2006	22
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.
74	"The Party Favor"	John Stephens	Michael Lange	April 27, 2006	23
Taylor hits a high at the 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.
75	"The Man of the Year"	Stephanie Savage	Tony Wharmby	May 4, 2006	24
Ryan and Volchok make a deal after a fallout at prom. Sandy is chosen as Man of the Year, but this sparks the DA to dig deeper into his involvement with the hospital problems. Marissa goes and visits Kaitlin at her boarding school and Theresa has to make a difficult decision about her child.
76	"The Graduates"	Bob DeLaurentus & Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	May 18, 2006	25
The kids look back on the amazing journey that has brought the four of them this far. Ryan's proud mom arrives with a surprise for him. Marissa receives an astounding proposal that may radically change her plans. An intoxicated Volchok, still reeling from his break-up with Marissa, runs her and Ryan off the road and over a cliff. Ryan survives. He tells her that he is going to go get help. She tells him to stay, and slowly dies in his arms.

Season 4: 2006-2007

Screenshot	Title	Writer(s)	Director	Original Airdate	# season	# total
77	"The Avengers"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	November 2, 2006	1
Five months after Marissa's death, Ryan attempts to move on with his life. Julie develops a medication addiction and Dr. Roberts has second thoughts about their relationship as Gloria begins to come back into his life. Julie meets up with Ryan and shares some inside information to the whereabouts of Volchok.
78	"The Gringos"	John Stephens	Patrick Norris	November 8, 2006	2
Ryan and Seth go to Mexico, trying to find Volchok. Summer is unsure about her relationship with Seth, while Taylor tells her that she got married in France. Kaitlin steals from a clothing drive at her school. Seth helps Kirsten and Sandy to keep Ryan from taking revenge and they return to Newport, where Sandy has a serious conversation with Julie.
79	"The Cold Turkey"	J.J. Philbin	Michael Lange	November 9, 2006	3
Thanksgiving at the Cohens! Summer returns, Julie is outcast, Taylor pops up, and Kaitlin decides to join the Cohens, along with a few other surprise guests. Ryan is still mad at Seth and wants to get revenge on Volchok. Sandy takes Volchok in as his lawyer. Ryan sees Sandy with Volchok and wants answers, so Sandy takes Ryan to the hotel where Volchok is. Volchok is taken into custody. Summer decides to go back to Brown early.
80	"The Metamorphosis"	Leila Gerstein	Norman Buckley	November 16, 2006	4
When Seth visits Summer, she realizes that her materialistic, gossiping self may be forever gone ever since she went to Brown. Ryan helps Taylor with her divorce. Temptation stirs when Kaitlin and Julie vow to stay out of trouble. Sandy longs for a guy's night out. And Taylor attempts to use Ryan to legalize her divorce.
81	"The Sleeping Beauty"	John Stephens	Ian Toynton	November 30, 2006	5
When Taylor learns that Ryan can't sleep, she comes up with her own therapeutic plan to help him get over his insomnia. Meanwhile at Brown, Summer and Che take their activism to a new level, resulting in more freedom than they expected. Kaitlin, after being served by her own mom in tennis lessons, volleys back at Julie but helps save the dating service. And when all of Taylor's schemes backfire, she turns to Kaitlin for help with Ryan and in the end gets her way.
82	"The Summer Bummer"	Josh Schwartz & Stephanie Savage	Michael Lange	December 7, 2006	6
When Seth visits Summer at Brown, he finds an empty dorm room, and Sandy and Kirsten find an opportunity to bond with Ryan, who is in a Taylor-induced haze. Kaitlin meets the mean girl of Harbor School and takes her down by throwing a rager at the Roberts house. Meanwhile, Julie Cooper learns that Newmatch is more than a dating service and the truth about Che comes out.
83	"The Chrismukk-huh?"	J.J. Philbin & John Stephens	Ian Toynton	December 14, 2006	7
It’s Chrismukkah in The O.C. After Ryan and Taylor fall off the Cohen roof they enter a dream world where nobody knows them, Mayor Sandy is married to Julie, Jimmy to Kirsten, Summer to Che. A letter is delivered to the Cohen house, which was sent by Marissa before she died.
84	"The Earth Girls Are Easy"	Mark Fish	Norman Buckley	December 21, 2006	8
It’s New Year’s Eve in The O.C. and Ryan has planned a special surprise road trip for himself and Taylor, but when Summer confronts Seth about not making any plans, Ryan’s romantic getaway for two is spoiled. Meanwhile, Summer’s future rests in the hands of a raver the gang meets on the way to Vegas. And the Bullit asks an old friend to take a look at Julie’s accounting.
85	"The My Two Dads"	Josh Schwartz & Stephanie Savage	Michael Schultz	January 4, 2007	9
Kaitlin fails a class presentation and is forced to work with Will, a smart band geek at Harbor. When Kaitlin thinks she can get Will to do her homework for her, he challenges her and sparks fly. Bound by their new commitment, Seth and Summer move forward with their plans, regardless of how they really feel. Meanwhile, Sandy confronts Frank on why he's in Newport and Julie tells Kirsten of Frank's true identity.
86	"The French Connection"	J.J. Philbin	John Stephens	January 11, 2007	10
Taylor’s ex-husband gets a little too close to home while he is promoting his erotic memoir. After Henri-Michel tells Ryan about Taylor’s exciting life in France, Ryan questions their relationship. Seth visits Dr. Roberts in Seattle to ask for permission to marry Summer. Meanwhile, Summer reconnects Holly and a vision of her future in Newport. And Kaitlin realizes she likes Will, but is concerned he thinks she’s too shallow.
87	"The Dream Lover"	Leila Gerstein	Patrick Norris	January 18, 2007	11
Che and Seth take a trip to the forest where Che, after a dream, discovers his spirit might be in love with an unexpected someone. After the trip to the forest, Seth and Summer finally speak. Also, Taylor decides that she can no longer speak to Ryan and Julie works her way back into Kirsten’s life the only way she knows how. Meanwhile, Kaitlin shuts Will out.
88	"The Groundhog Day"	Mark Fish	Ian Toynton	January 25, 2007	12
As the Cohens prepare for Kirsten's 40th birthday party, Kirsten gets some news that will change her life forever. Meanwhile, Julie Cooper is having a secret love affair that Kaitlin does all she can to stop. While Ryan acts like he doesn't miss Taylor, Taylor visits a therapist, who gives her some rules to live by. After their plan to save Newport Chuck goes awry, Che finally discovers that Seth is not his soulmate and Sandy and Kirsten have surprises for each other.
89	"The Case of the Franks"	J.J. Philbin	Norman Buckley	February 1, 2007	13
While Taylor comes up with a plan to make things right between Ryan and his Dad, Julie continues to move things forward with Bullit. But when Julie and Frank run into each other in front of Ryan and Taylor, their secret is apparent. Meanwhile, after Seth and Summer get a psychic reading, Summer wonders if she and Seth are right for each other. And when Kaitlin discovers that Ryan and Taylor are playing Cupid to get Julie and Frank together, she goes to extreme lengths to get her mom to like Bullit but who will Julie choose?
90	"The Shake Up"	John Stephens	Ian Toynton	February 8, 2007	14
Ryan and Taylor share some special words… but did they really mean them? Meanwhile, Kaitlin decides to sabotage Frank and Julie’s relationship, until her Mom finally notices and makes a change for the better. And Kirsten, for the first time, realizes what Newport society is really all about. Also, Summer encourages Seth to find something he can be passionate about. And as the night comes to a close, an earthquake hits the Southland
91	"The Night Moves"	Stephanie Savage	Patrick Norris	February 15, 2007	15
After the earthquake shakes up Orange County, the gang struggles to make sure everyone is O.K. Although Sandy has told him to stay where he is, Seth will do whatever it takes to be with Ryan and Taylor. Meanwhile, the Coopers are stuck in the ice cream shop until they are saved by the only man in Newport for Julie Cooper. However, like so much in Newport, things aren’t what they seem when the family returns to the Cohen house.
92	"The End's Not Near, It's Here"	Josh Schwartz	Ian Toynton	February 22, 2007	16
Six months have passed since the last episode and everything has changed. The Cohens have taken temporary residence at the Coopers', whilst Julie has a wedding. Sandy and Kirsten's daughter Sophie Rose is born and the Cohens move back to Berkeley. Seth and Summer say goodbye, as do Ryan and Taylor. Years later, Julie graduates from college, and Seth and Summer get married, with Ryan standing in as the best man. As the episode closes, Ryan, an architect, reaches out to a young boy, much in the same way Sandy reached out to him years ago.

External links

• Summary of episodes from Fox
• The OC, Season 4, Title