- Mischa Barton rose to fame worldwide as a teenager
- Now her 'O.C.' co-star Peter Gallagher is speaking out
- He's glad she survived her early fame
Mischa Barton (38), best known for her role as "Marissa Cooper" in the hit TV series 'The O.C.,' rose to fame at just 16 years old. However, her early success brought not only accolades but also significant challenges.
Peter Gallagher talks about Mischa Barton
Mischa’s life faced turmoil, leading to her arrest in 2007 and a subsequent admission to a psychiatric hospital in 2009. Her former co-star, Peter Gallagher (69), shared his thoughts in an interview with 'The Independent,' stating, "I've always felt very protective of her. First fame is toxic. First fame can kill you. She was 16 years old when she started working with us, so just the fact that she’s still alive, I’m just so grateful."
Mischa Barton’s fight for recovery
In 2009, Mischa Barton opened up about her mental health struggles, likening her experiences to the film 'Girl, Interrupted', starring Angelina Jolie (49). "It was a full-on breakdown. It was terrifying. Straight out of 'Girl, Interrupted.' Story of my life... I was never suicidal; I was just overworked and depressed. But one slip of the tongue in a heightened moment and you find yourself in that situation," she told 'People' magazine.
Barton also reflected on the intense pressure she faced. "Nothing could prepare (my parents) to have their children jump into the overtly sexualized and crazy world of L.A. … It was a train I could not get off of. When you’re young, you can do it, but after a while, it’s going to come crashing down on you. I’ve learned a lot. I’m stronger now, and I’m excited for what’s ahead," she said.