It’s the show we can’t stop talking about, the show that has made Tuesday night TV night again. The O.C. has the juiciest story lines and the hottest cast (so many cute guys, so little time!) and we’re hooked. Whether you’re already addicted or need a primer, check out our profiles of the main cast members and you’ll be ready to dive right in next Tuesday at 9 p.m. EST on Fox.

Who: Ryan Atwood, played by Benjamin McKenzie

In five words his character is: The rebellious, yet sensitive outsider

Who is he? Ben was born and raised in Austin, TX. After graduating from the University of Virginia, where he majored in foreign affairs and economics, he moved to New York to act, starting his career in off-Broadway plays. But the 24-year-old doesn’t stay still for long — he moved again, this time to L.A. and sealed the lead role in The O.C almost immediately.

Where we’ve seen him: Nowhere — this is his first TV role.

Why we like to watch him: Because even though the Russell Crowe look-alike plays the classic guy-from-the-wrong-side-of-the-tracks, he’s already shown his softer side. The way he stands up for Seth and the angst he feels when his mom ditches him shows us that under that white muscle tee is a heart of gold. Plus, his chemistry with Marissa is so hot that we can barely drag ourselves away when the two share screen time.

Source: ym.com