Mischa Barton Opens Up About Off-Screen Romance with Ben McKenzie on 'The O.C.'

The actress reveals the complexities of dating her co-star at 17, shedding light on the challenges and pressures faced on set.

Mischa Barton revealed on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast that she had an off-screen romance with her 'The O.C.' co-star Ben McKenzie when she was 17 and he was 25.
Barton described the relationship as her first and admitted to feeling overwhelmed and unprepared for the complexities it introduced on set.
The actress discussed the challenges of being the youngest cast member and experiencing many 'firsts' while on the show, including losing her virginity.
Producers and Barton's parents were concerned about the age gap and the impact of the relationship on the show's dynamics.
Barton and McKenzie have previously denied dating rumors, but Barton's recent revelations have brought new attention to their past relationship.