Television shows like “The O.C.” have a special place in the hearts of many viewers. This popular teen drama series aired from 2003 to 2007 and followed the lives of a group of wealthy teenagers living in Orange County, California. The show was known for its drama, romance, and memorable soundtrack, which featured a mix of indie rock, pop, and alternative music. If you’re a fan of “The O.C.” and are looking for similar shows to watch, you’re in luck! There are plenty of other TV series that capture the same essence and vibe as “The O.C.” Here are some shows like “The O.C.” and 13 song examples from each:
1. “Gossip Girl” – This iconic teen drama series follows the lives of privileged high school students living on the Upper East Side of New York City. The show’s soundtrack features a mix of indie and pop music, with artists like The Kills, The Ting Tings, and Florence + The Machine. One standout song from the series is “Young Folks” by Peter Bjorn and John.
2. “90210” – A modern-day reboot of the classic 1990s series “Beverly Hills, 90210,” this show follows a group of teenagers living in the wealthy zip code of Beverly Hills. The soundtrack features a mix of pop and rock music, with artists like OneRepublic, The All-American Rejects, and The Script. One standout song from the series is “Kids” by MGMT.
3. “One Tree Hill” – This long-running teen drama series follows the lives of two half-brothers, Lucas and Nathan Scott, as they navigate high school and basketball in the fictional town of Tree Hill, North Carolina. The soundtrack features a mix of indie rock, pop, and alternative music, with artists like Jimmy Eat World, Snow Patrol, and The Fray. One standout song from the series is “I Don’t Want to Be” by Gavin DeGraw.
4. “The Hills” – This reality television series follows the lives of several young women living in Los Angeles, California, as they navigate their careers, friendships, and relationships. The show’s soundtrack features a mix of pop and electronic music, with artists like Natasha Bedingfield, Cobra Starship, and The Veronicas. One standout song from the series is “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield.
5. “Dawson’s Creek” – This iconic teen drama series follows the lives of four friends living in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts, as they navigate high school, relationships, and growing up. The soundtrack features a mix of alternative rock, pop, and folk music, with artists like Paula Cole, The Wallflowers, and Sarah McLachlan. One standout song from the series is “I Don’t Want to Wait” by Paula Cole.
6. “Friday Night Lights” – This critically acclaimed drama series follows the lives of the residents of the small town of Dillon, Texas, as they rally around their high school football team, the Dillon Panthers. The soundtrack features a mix of country, folk, and rock music, with artists like Explosions in the Sky, Iron & Wine, and The National. One standout song from the series is “Your Hand in Mine” by Explosions in the Sky.
7. “Veronica Mars” – This cult-favorite mystery drama series follows the titular character, Veronica Mars, as she solves crimes and navigates high school and college in the fictional town of Neptune, California. The soundtrack features a mix of indie rock, pop, and alternative music, with artists like Spoon, Tegan and Sara, and The Dandy Warhols. One standout song from the series is “We Used to Be Friends” by The Dandy Warhols.
8. “Pretty Little Liars” – This popular teen drama series follows the lives of four high school girls, Aria, Spencer, Hanna, and Emily, as they navigate the mysterious disappearance of their friend, Alison. The soundtrack features a mix of pop, electronic, and indie music, with artists like The Pierces, The Naked and Famous, and Lykke Li. One standout song from the series is “Secret” by The Pierces.
9. “Riverdale” – This dark and twisty teen drama series is based on the characters from the Archie Comics and follows the residents of the small town of Riverdale as they uncover dark secrets and mysteries. The soundtrack features a mix of indie rock, pop, and alternative music, with artists like Lorde, Halsey, and Arctic Monkeys. One standout song from the series is “Bury a Friend” by Billie Eilish.
10. “Skins” – This British teen drama series follows the lives of a group of teenagers in Bristol, England, as they navigate high school, relationships, and growing up. The soundtrack features a mix of indie rock, pop, and electronic music, with artists like Foals, Crystal Castles, and The xx. One standout song from the series is “Kids” by MGMT.
11. “The Vampire Diaries” – This supernatural drama series follows the lives of two vampire brothers, Stefan and Damon Salvatore, as they navigate love, family, and supernatural beings in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia. The soundtrack features a mix of indie rock, pop, and electronic music, with artists like The Fray, Florence + The Machine, and Imagine Dragons. One standout song from the series is “Never Say Never” by The Fray.
12. “90210” – This teen drama series is a spin-off of the original “Beverly Hills, 90210” and follows a new group of teenagers living in the wealthy zip code of Beverly Hills. The soundtrack features a mix of pop and rock music, with artists like The Killers, Foster the People, and Ellie Goulding. One standout song from the series is “Somebody Told Me” by The Killers.
13. “The Lying Game” – This mystery drama series follows the lives of two identical twin sisters, Emma and Sutton, as they uncover dark secrets and mysteries surrounding their past. The soundtrack features a mix of indie rock, pop, and alternative music, with artists like The Naked and Famous, Foster the People, and Two Door Cinema Club. One standout song from the series is “Punching in a Dream” by The Naked and Famous.
Now that you have some TV shows like “The O.C.” to add to your watchlist, here are 14 common questions about these series:
1. Are these shows suitable for all ages?
While most of these shows are targeted towards a teenage audience, some may contain mature themes and content that may not be suitable for younger viewers. It’s always best to check the ratings and content warnings before watching.
2. Do these shows have diverse casts and storylines?
Many of these shows strive to include diverse characters and storylines that reflect the real world. From LGBTQ+ representation to characters of different races and backgrounds, these shows aim to be inclusive and represent a variety of perspectives.
3. Are these shows available to stream online?
Most of these shows are available to stream on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. You can also purchase or rent episodes on platforms like iTunes or Google Play.
4. Do these shows have strong female characters?
Yes, many of these shows feature strong and complex female characters who drive the story forward and face challenges head-on. From Veronica Mars to Aria Montgomery, these shows showcase the strength and resilience of women.
5. Are there love triangles in these shows?
Love triangles are a common trope in teen dramas, and many of these shows feature complicated romantic relationships and triangles that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. From Dawson’s Creek to Gossip Girl, love triangles are a staple of the genre.
6. Are there any crossovers between these shows?
While there may not be direct crossovers between these shows, many of them share similar themes, settings, and character dynamics. Fans of one show may enjoy watching another for its familiar elements.
7. Do these shows have strong soundtracks?
Yes, many of these shows are known for their memorable soundtracks that feature a mix of indie rock, pop, and alternative music. From The O.C.’s iconic music moments to Gossip Girl’s indie hits, these shows have a strong musical presence.
8. Are these shows based on books?
Some of these shows are based on books or graphic novels, like “Veronica Mars” and “Gossip Girl.” These adaptations bring beloved characters and storylines to life on the small screen.
9. Do these shows tackle social issues?
Many of these shows touch on social issues like racism, sexism, bullying, and mental health. Through their characters and storylines, these shows aim to spark conversations and raise awareness about important topics.
10. Are there any spin-offs of these shows?
Some of these shows have spin-offs or reboots, like “90210,” which is a modern-day reboot of the classic “Beverly Hills, 90210.” These spin-offs may feature new characters and storylines while paying homage to the original series.
11. Do these shows have diverse genres?
While many of these shows fall under the teen drama or mystery genres, they also incorporate elements of romance, comedy, and supernatural themes. This diversity in genres keeps viewers engaged and entertained.
12. Are there any iconic moments in these shows?
Yes, many of these shows have iconic moments that have become legendary in pop culture. From shocking plot twists to emotional revelations, these moments leave a lasting impact on viewers.
13. Do these shows have strong fan communities?
Yes, many of these shows have dedicated fan communities that continue to support and celebrate the series long after they have ended. Fans connect through social media, fan fiction, and conventions to share their love for these shows.
14. Are there any upcoming revivals or reboots of these shows?
While there may not be any upcoming revivals or reboots of these specific shows, the teen drama genre continues to thrive with new series that capture the spirit and essence of these beloved classics.
In conclusion, shows like “The O.C.” offer a mix of drama, romance, and memorable soundtracks that keep viewers coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of teen dramas, mysteries, or supernatural themes, there’s a show on this list for you to enjoy. From iconic moments to diverse characters, these series have something for everyone. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and start binge-watching these addictive shows that will have you hooked from the first episode to the last.