FOX ORDERS THIRD SEASON OF "THE O.C."

Series Pulls FOX's Best Thursday Numbers in More Than Five Years

FOX has ordered a third season of THE O.C., it was announced today by Gail Berman, President, Entertainment for the Fox Broadcasting Company.

"We're pleased to give THE O.C. a very early pickup for its third season," said Berman. "The show has performed exceptionally well, achieving hit status on a highly competitive night and giving us a solid anchor on Thursdays for the first time in years."

In its Thursday time period, THE O.C. has scored impressive ratings - ranking No. 1 in Adults 18-34 and Teens. In fact, the show's outstanding performance on Thursday nights has asserted FOX as a key player on the night while pulling FOX's best Thursday numbers in more than five years. Additionally, THE O.C. has improved across the board compared to Thursday's time period average last season, building by +72% in Adults 18-49, +111% in Adults 18-34 and +86% in Teens.

THE O.C. recently wrapped production of "The Return of the Nana" episode in Miami Beach, FL. Guest-starring Linda Lavin, Jaime King and Atlantic recording artist T.I., the episode will air Thursday, April 28 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. Sandy (Peter Gallagher), Seth (Adam Brody) and Ryan (Ben McKenzie) travel to South Beach to visit the Nana (Linda Lavin), who is living at Leisure World. While playing shuffleboard at Leisure World, Seth and Ryan meet Mary-Sue (Jaime King), who helps Seth get center stage on "Music Video Nation's" Spring Break 2005 television show hosted by Swerve (Bret Harrison) and Pixie, star of "Sherman Oaks: The Real Valley." T.I. performs his hit single "Bring 'Em Out" in the episode. While shooting in Miami Beach, THE O.C. filmed at the world-renowned Fontainebleau Hilton Resort, among other locations.

THE O.C. airs Thursdays (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.

From Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television Production Inc., THE O.C. is executive-produced by Josh Schwartz, McG and Bob DeLaurentis. The series stars Peter Gallagher (Sandy Cohen), Kelly Rowan (Kirsten Cohen), Ben McKenzie (Ryan Atwood), Adam Brody (Seth Cohen), Mischa Barton (Marissa Cooper), Melinda Clarke (Julie Cooper), Rachel Bilson (Summer Roberts) and Alan Dale (Caleb Nichol).