Netflix’s One Tree Hill sequel in development: Which original stars will return?

One Tree Hill fans have reason to rejoice as Netflix is developing a sequel to the beloved drama series. The new show is expected to revive the drama and appeal that made it a fan favorite.

One Tree Hill's original stars, Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton have also confirmed their return. Among those who have been waiting impatiently for the return of the original cast, this news has created great buzz.

The show originally aired from 2003 to 2012 and followed the lives of half-brothers Lucas and Nathan Scott, who navigated the ups and downs of high school and adulthood in the small town of Tree Hill, North Carolina. The series explored themes of family, friendship, and romance.

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Netflix’s One Tree Hill sequel is in development with the original cast

One Tree Hill's mix of drama and narrative had a lasting effect. Originally running on The WB, then The CW, the show soon became a mainstay for viewers of teen dramas. Its narrative ran on the life of the Scott brothers and their friends.

Sophia Bush, known for her role as Brooke Davis, and Hilarie Burton, who played Peyton Sawyer, will return for the Netflix sequel. For viewers, their participation is a major highlight since both characters were fundamental to the story of the original series.

The pair penned a joint statement that was posted separately to each of their Instagram profiles. The caption on Hilarie Burton's post read:

“What if you really can go back home? If there’s an opportunity to team with brilliant creatives and build a space where all our friends can show off their talents? Own our history? Reclaim our turf? Honor our fans? Sign us up.”

It further read:

“There’s only one Tree Hill, after all. And you — the #OTHfam — have shown us that it’s not just an idea. It really is the place where ‘everything’s better and everything’s safe."

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Plot

One Tree Hill follows Lucas (Chad Michael Murray) and Nathan (James Lafferty), two half-brothers from a fictional North Carolina town, who must navigate high school together. Their social circles eventually intersect.

Through the teens' eyes, the show explored Tree Hill's friendships, romance, heartbreak, and familial tensions. Brooke Davis, Peyton Sawyer, and Haley James Scott (Bethany Joy Lenz) often drove the plot.

Peyton and Brooke, childhood best friends are often at crossroads but eventually become close throughout the series. Their relationship is tested by many obstacles, including their love triangle with Lucas. Lucas joins their group and brings his best friend Haley, who falls in love with Nathan and marries him in high school. They have a son together as well.

Towards the end, Peyton marries Lucas, and Brooke falls in love with Julian (Austin Nichols). Brooke also has twins Davis and Jude. As per Deadline's August 30 report, the sequel will take off 20 years later, showing Brooke and Peyton as parents.

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Direction and production

As per Deadline, Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, and Daneel Ackles, who played the lead roles in the first One Tree Hill, will be the executive producers for the sequel. Along with her husband Jensen Ackles, Daneel Ackles will produce under her own company, Chaos Machine Productions. Warner Bros. Television will also produce the anticipated show.

However, Mark Schwahn, the creator of One Tree Hill who oversaw executive production and served as showrunner for the series, has no participation in the sequel.

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The Netflix sequel has created much anticipation among the fans. With Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton back, the show seeks to explore fresh narrative paths while capturing the heart of the original. The expectation for the follow-up reflects the emotional connection and ongoing popularity One Tree Hill has developed with its audience.