15 times an important character left a popular show

By Shruti Vaishnav

Modified Dec 27, 2024 14:28 ET

"Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band" New York Premiere - Source: Getty

4) Marissa Cooper played by Mischa Barton (The O.C.)

"Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band" New York Premiere - Source: Getty

Mischa Barton's exit from The O.C. in Season 3 was a turning point for the series. She played Marissa Cooper, the most iconic character of the show, who died suddenly at the end of the season finale. She had become tired of the role, and the creators of the show decided to write her out in the most dramatic way possible. Marissa's death had an emotional impact on the characters and the audience, and it really changed the direction of the show. Without her, The O.C. could not regain the same magic.

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Edited by Sarah Nazamuddin Harniswala