One Tree Hill remains a singular show, yet it feels incomplete without its lead actors. Amid a wave of reboots bringing back fan-favorite series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, rumors of a One Tree Hill revival have also surfaced. The original drama aired nine seasons from 2003 to 2012, with significant changes in its final two seasons.
Both shows share more than just reboot plans; their creators have been embroiled in controversy. Buffy was created by Joss Whedon, who faced accusations of workplace harassment. One Tree Hill’s creator, Mark Schwahn, has also been accused of sexual harassment, with the cast and crew, including stars Hilarie Burton Morgan and Danneel Harris Ackles, publicly supporting these claims.
In summer 2024, announcements hinted at a One Tree Hill reboot, but details remain scarce. In a recent People magazine interview for the Sexiest Man Alive feature, Chad Michael Murray and James Lafferty, who portrayed brothers Lucas and Nathan Scott, expressed skepticism about returning.
“We did the show and played those characters for nine years,” Lafferty said. “I’m not sure what the rest of that distance would be.”
The actors, who developed a close friendship on set after initially playing rivals, find it difficult to envision the show fitting into today’s context.
The possibility of a One Tree Hill reboot hangs in the balance as its two main stars remain uncertain about revisiting their roles, reflecting challenges in recapturing the original show's spirit amid changing times.