10 Times Marissa Cooper Was The Best Character on ‘The O.C.’ (Yes, Really!)

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Jan 23, 2018 2:55 pm·

By Paulina Jayne Isaac

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If you're a fan of The O.C. then you know that like 99.9% of the teen show's drama stemmed from Marissa Cooper. Sure, sometimes she made less-than-great decisions, caused a scene, and led boys along — but what would the show have been without her? She was the quintessential Cali girl we all wanted to be friends with. Keep scrolling to see all of Marissa Cooper's best moments!

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1 of 10

When she proved she could be self-aware.

There's no denying Marissa Cooper was a privileged teenager, but at least she was aware of how charmed (at least in the beginning) her life was.

2 of 10

When she totally lost her cool.

Boring is never a word anyone would use to describe Marissa. Plus, who else could look that good having a full-out meltdown?

3 of 10

When she never gave up on her relationship with Ryan.

Sure, Ryan and Marissa had their fair share of problems. But, we always rooted for the on-again, off-again couple.

4 of 10

When she took accountability.

Where Marissa went, drama followed. Even when she messed up, she always owned up to her mistakes and apologized.

5 of 10

When she saved Ryan's life.

Fans will never forget the dramatic episode when Marissa shot Ryan's brother, Trey, to save him. Even after she was facing expulsion for her actions — she refused to apologize for them.

6 of 10

When she initiated this iconic scene.

Ryan and Marissa's romance began in the first episode because of their immediate chemistry. Such a simple line sparked such a special relationship.

7 of 10

When she confronted her parents.

When your parents are Julie and Jimmy Cooper, sometimes tough love is required. Sometimes she went a little overboard (read: getting drunk and causing a scene) but they definitely deserved it.

8 of 10

When she experimented with her sexuality.

Relationships are never easy… especially when you're a teenager questioning your sexuality. But, Marissa chose to date Alex despite her mother's disapproval.

9 of 10

When she fell in love with Ryan.

While not always the most emotionally mature out of the bunch, she could never deny her feelings for Ryan. And when she finally told him she loved him, it took a lot of courage.

10 of 10

When she stayed true to herself.

We miss you, Coop!

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