News Update: Shoe Revolt Auction is Live!

Bidding is now underway for Bethany Joy Lenz's BC Wedges and James Lafferty's TOMS Classics. Let's all join the fight to end Human Trafficking. The answer is under our feet!

Stay up to date with the bidding madness below!

Live eBay Auction - Bid Now

 

News Exclusive: First Look at Joy & James' Autographed Donations to Shoe Revolt

As most of you already know, on Monday August 20th, 2012 Shoe Revolt will host a celebrity shoe auction featuring rare donations from One Tree Hill alumni, Bethany Joy Lenz and James Lafferty.

So to get you all amped for this very-special  auction, we've got an exclusive first look of the autographed shoes donated by the former One Tree Hill supercouple, thanks to Chief Shoeraiser, Miranda Kirkpatrick. Check 'em out (click images for a larger view).

James Lafferty and Bethany Joy Lenz as Nathan and Haley Scott 

Bethany Joy Lenz

  

Bethany Joy Lenz's Autographed BC Footwear Wedges

BC FOOTWEAR
RUFFLE
Black Burlap Fabric Wedges

Bethany Joy Lenz was recently photographed at Matt Leinart's 6th Annual Celebrity Bowl at Lucky Strike bowling alley on July 12, 2012 wearing these sassy BC Footwear wedges. Now the actress is auctioning off an autographed pair to further the fight against Human Trafficking.

James Lafferty

James Lafferty's Autographed TOMS Classics

TOMS  
CLASSICS
Olive Canvas Men's Classics

James Lafferty is known for her charitable efforts particularly in North Carolina where he filmed One Tree Hill alongside Bethany Joy Lenz. He's extending his philanthropic efforts by auctioning off an autographed pair of his favorite shoes.

Become an agent of change and bid on these shoes to provide much-needed support for the victims of Human Trafficking! Find out more information about this auction here:

• Twitter.com/ShoeRevolt
• Facebook.com/ShoeRevolt
• ShoeRevolt.com

News Update: Bethany Joy Lenz's Emmy Submission

The first order of business today is Bethany Joy Lenz's submission and possible (yet improbable) nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award!

Joy's name appears on the nominations ballot in a bidding to acknowledge her work as Haley James Scott on the ninth and final season of One Tree Hill as an Outstanding Supporting Actress. I'm not entirely certain why she falls under the category of Supporting Actress where competition is robust (she has a 1 in 141 chance of simply being nominated) -  but I fully understand why Joy, of all her nine seasons portraying Haley would chose this season to submit herself.

The odds are certainly against her - and not because of merit, less because of the competition and more because of the rampant discrimination against anything associated with the CW, a broadcast network known for producing cheap programming and junk food entertainment. And if that wasn't enough, One Tree Hill isn't exactly a critical darling and pretty much propagates the inbred prejudice against every CW show and its associated actors....strike two.

Nevertheless, anyone who's watched One Tree Hill knows Joy was consistently the show's MVP. Joy may have been underused in prior seasons, but she really stepped up to the plate and acted the hell out a nuanced storyline regarding Nathan's kidnapping in season nine.

If you can't remember why Joy at the very least deserves an emmy nod here's a previous post I've written to acknowledge one of the most heart rendering episodes in the history of the show:

One Tree Hill Episode Review: "A Rush of Blood to the Head"

A breath-taking montage worth watching more than once.

Therefore, the question isn't whether Joy has the talent to be in contention for Outstanding Supporting Actress - it becomes whether or not television critics and the academy can put aside their prejudices to give recognition to a powerful actress.

A good actress is a good actress - and whether Joy is or isn't nominated it doesn't detract from the fact that she's established herself as a bona fide actress on a crappy network.

Nevertheless, I wish her all the luck in the world!

To view the full 2012 Primetime Emmy Awards Ballot, click HERE.

My Thank-You Letter to Haley James Scott

A TUTOR GIRL LIFE LESSON

9 Years in the Making

I was a 12-year-old girl when One Tree Hill premiered on The WB 11 on September 23, 2003. At this time I was an impressionable pre-teen who was being fed problematic distortions from my peers about what it meant to be ‘cool.’ I envisioned invisible parameters around the definition of cool and equated it to belonging to an exclusive club. In essence, being part of the cool club was contingent on my social conformity. The more I flirted with the idea of compromising myself to be cool the more accepted I was by my peers – an attractive give and take for any struggling pre-teen.

In a culture saturated in ideals responsible for reinforcing negative perceptions of self-image, I gradually became disillusioned and misguided. The older I got, the harder it became for me to be myself. I couldn’t identify with any female role model – they all seemed too fazed by the societal pressures of being over-sexualized and dumbed down versions of themselves for the sake of fitting in. And how unfortunate it is to be a malleable young girl with no one to really look up to…

That is until one casual day, I turned on the T.V. and the rest is history.

Haley became my favorite character in 1.06 - EVERY
 NIGHT IS ANOTHER STORY. A simple ending
 montage depicts Haley as an outsider as she solemnly
watches the popular girls of Tree Hill High. 

Initially, Haley James Scott was just the eccentric girl-next door. There was nothing remarkable about the character who at first glance was nothing more than Lucas Scott’s talkative and clumsy sidekick. But as the show progressed I realized I couldn’t be more wrong. In spite of her strange way of dress, her unusual bits of advice and her rare stance on sexuality, Haley James was confident! She was flawed but self-assured and that was truly remarkable.

In a cultural climate where images and rhetoric in the media serve to propagate lies about what it means to be a sexy, proper and desirable female, Haley James became my beacon of hope. Haley James was a free spirit – a unique compliment to the Brookes and Peytons of the world. She was a female lead who circumvented and challenged societal norms without making any apologies for being herself. Haley taught me so much, particularly as I navigated through some tough years as a teenager.

And her inner strength not only managed to empower other characters on the show but millions of young girls much like me.

Source: bjldaily.tumblr.com

My sensitivity to the abysmal depiction of females in the media and the longing to find that someone to look up to is what attracted me to the character of Haley James. And Bethany Joy Lenz's portrayal of Haley proves that it really is possible to make a positive impression on young adults while remaining "classy, talented, [and] wholesome." Although it saddens me to say goodbye to Haley, I know the things I've learned and taken away from her character will certainly follow me for a very, very long time.

So I end this post by looking towards the future and finding comfort in knowing that I've identified a role model in Joy as a young girl and even now as a young adult.

May you continue to be a beacon of hope to millions of young girls struggling to find someone to look up to.

+ +

For those of you interested in continuing the topic of women in the media, I urge to revisit  two poignant posts where Joy addresses it beautifully:

- I GOTCHA YOUR CLASS RIGHT HERE

"Is it possible the entertainment industry is genuinely ready for a new generation of classy, talented, wholesome young women?"

- SWEETHEART CLOSE YOUR LEGS

"Have we fallen so far? Have we finally arrived to the place where not only do you need no talent to become a role-model (and yes, I'm sorry but if you're perpetuating a public career, you are famous and young people look up to you), but you don't even need class?"

Moreover, I advise you all to check out the trailer to a film called "MISS REPRESENTATION," which is incredibly relevant.

Like drawing back a curtain to let bright light stream in, Miss Representation uncovers a glaring reality we live with every day but fail to see. Written and directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the film exposes how mainstream media contribute to the under-representation of women in positions of power and influence in America. The film challenges the media’s limited and often disparaging portrayals of women and girls, which make it difficult for women to achieve leadership positions and for the average woman to feel powerful herself.

[http://www.missrepresentation.org/the-film/]

Celebrating Joy Week: A Small Look Back

THE EVOLUTION OF JOY

Join Bethany Joy Central this week, as we take a small trip down memory lane to appreciate but most importantly celebrate the beautiful, Ms. Bethany Joy Lenz.

+ + +

In the last year, Joy has been blogging up a storm, so I thought it would be fun to re-read some of my favorite blog updates from the past year. Check it out:

- IN THE KITCHEN! PARCHMENT BAG COOKING  

 

- WARDROBE WEDNESDAY [12/21/11]

- THE AMERICAN GOSSIP EPIDEMIC  

"If you are a teenager, I don't envy you your pain, but I do see the amazing opportunity you have to change the environment around you. Your parents aren't perfect, no one is, and if they didn't teach you to be kind then teach yourself. Take responsibility for your own words, thoughts and actions and make this world a better place than what has been left to you. Please. 

We have to start somewhere... "

- TEMPER, TEMPER...

"Why aren't they learning self-respect and respect for others, and respect for their environments? Why aren't they learning that they have something to offer the world instead of being so self-focused that they find it acceptable to throw a tantrum in public as a pre-teen!?" 

- RESPONDEZ S'IL VOUS PLAIT 

"I am blown away and inspired by people like you, who have walked through such great adversity and have found victory and freedom on the other side. You are an important voice in your generation, don't let your fire go out, even if, at times, you may feel your are only burning enough for an ember-- you will rekindle in time!" 

- ICONIC FILM FASHION READY - TO - WEAR 

- TREE HUGGERS, HEARTLESS BASTARDS, & ME 

"Enjoy completing your civil and environmental duties, but don't forget to be intentional with the relationships around you! And remember that your philanthropic cause is not more or as important as the person with whom you are crusading."

+ + +

Last but not least, 8 years ago on this very day, Joy performed the most beautiful rendition of the National Anthem at a One Tree Hill Charity Basketball Game. Do yourself a favor and check it out - I get goosebumps listening to this.

One Tree Hill Episode Review: "All the Awards For You, Girl"

ONE TREE HILL: 'A RUSH OF BLOOD TO THE HEAD'

Episode Title: 'A Rush of Blood to the Head' 

Airdate: February 29th, 2012

Ratings: 1.56 mil (↑ 0.9%)

Bethany Joy Galeotti’s brilliant, bruising and entirely committed performance in “A Rush of Blood to the Head,” is the truest testament of the actress’s dedication to deliver a performance beyond what is expected of her. The intense preparation that goes into every performance most definitely pays off on screen— and last night was no exception. Completely immersed in the tragic plot where Haley struggles to find Nathan, Galeotti flawlessly captures the emotional turmoil, anxiety, and frustration involved in locating a missing loved one. Never content in portraying Haley as the victim, Galeotti upholds a unique grace and poise as Haley searches for him.

In this episode Haley’s enduring sadness intensifies when she receives a phone call from the morgue saying they’ve identified a body that may be Nathan’s. This single moment initiates one of the strongest montages in One Tree Hill history. The keys and the phone crash abruptly to the floor and the camera pans to Galeotti’s numb expression. The news is so powerful and so hard-hitting that it debilitates Haley to a point where she loses all strength to hold herself up.

Burdened by the impending news of her husband’s possible death, Haley heads to the morgue crying silently in the passenger seat as she delivers what can easily be the most touching yet heartbreaking voice over this show has ever seen:

“And you looked at me so tenderly, Nathan, and you said you always chose mint chocolate chip because you knew it was my favorite flavor. And that’s when I realized for the first time that you hadn’t been making any of your decisions for yourself. You were doing everything for me all along, for your family. And it occurred to me that we still had so much to learn about each other. And since then Nathan, I’ve learned about the wonderfully selfless, humble, strong man you are. Nathan, I can’t hear that you’ll never come home again, that I’ll never learn something new about you again, never experience your selflessness, your love, your warm touch again. Nathan, please – have we really had our last conversation? Our last kiss? I don’t know what I’d do – please.” – Haley James Scott (9.08)

Amidst the heavy drama, Haley draws upon this “insignificant” yet tender memory of Nathan that reinforces why these two are the cornerstone of One Tree Hill. Despite the fact that this favorite-ice-cream-flavor moment never played before us on screen, Galeotti vividly brings us to relive it. She conveys such warmth and sincerity that you would have to be made of stone not to sympathize with her and feel the magnitude of Nathan and Haley's love.

When Haley arrives, she whispers something to Quinn and gathers the strength to face the manifestation of her biggest fear. Her breath hitches and the man pulls the heavy sheet, exposing the body. She reluctantly looks at the body – Galeotti doesn’t say a single word, but her physical reaction reveals it all. With a look of deep shock, disgust and agony she cries and then strongly signals to cover the unidentified lifeless body that lies before her.

Although fans may have felt cheated given the buildup of this poignant moment (no, it wasn't Nathan), Galeotti’s spectacular performance distracts from the fact, as this breakdown is the strongest work we’ve ever seen from an actor on this show. And like Matt Mitovich from TVLine says in response to the latest episode, "Damn, the Actress Formerly Known as Joie Lenz can cry."

The episode continues as Haley somberly talks about the tornado of events with Deb and Brooke. Haley makes minor progress but seeks more help by going to the local precinct to speak to the only Tree Hill cop on duty. Here, Galeotti flawlessly captures the disappointment and disillusionment with the police force, and their lack of support in locating Nathan. Haley looks so defeated and her voice sounds like she’d been crying for hours – which adds an amazing element of realism that can be lent to Galeotti's ability to channel deep into the pain of her character. Unapologetically, Haley yells her heart out screaming “it’s not enough” as she violently shoves objects off a desk in an attempt to drive the police to find Nathan. Galeotti's tears are so impactful that it legitimately feels like fans are too fighting to look for Nathan, although we already know where he is.

Haley's frustrations continue to mount when she rips off a missing dog flyer that covers a missing person poster with Nathan’s face printed on it. Powerless and dejected, Haley makes a last-ditch effort to locate Nathan and turns to an unlikely person; Dan Scott – thus ending a beautifully tragic episode.

“A Rush of Blood to the Head,” will go down in One Tree Hill history as one of the most moving episodes ever produced – all thanks to the phenomenally talented, Bethany Joy Galeotti. This woman possesses such immense potential and it's an awe-inspiring experience watching her live up to it. What a gift! If Hollywood critics and casting directors aren’t already aware of Galeotti’s talent I can say without a shadow of a doubt that this is the beginning to a journey towards BIG things in her career.

There’s just something so enigmatic and striking about the way she effortlessly thrusts audiences so intimately into the complex world of Haley James Scott – the woman posses a certain je ne sais quoi, an IT Factor that no other actor on this show has. And it's that unique and undefined "IT" that makes Galeotti so special – so unique. Her talent is truly something that will be revered for years and years to come.

And as they say on tumblr, “all the awards for you, girl.” Congratulations on a wonderful performance.

(Image credit goes to screen--caps and lovablesinss on tumblr. Thank you ladies!)

News Update: One Tree Hill DVD Cover & 9.08 Episode Still

Photo: Michael Tackett/The CW ©2012

"A Rush Of Blood To The Head" Episode Still Pictured: Bethany Joy Galeotti as Haley James Scott in ONE TREE HILL on THE CW. The CW Network. All Rights Reserved.

One Tree Hill: The Complete Ninth Season on DVD

THE FINAL SEASON OF THE COMPELLING DRAMA SERIES ONE TREE HILL IS AVAILABLE ON DVD WITH ULTRAVIOLETTM DIGITAL COPY FROM WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT GROUP APRIL 10, 2012

Three-Disc DVD Set Includes All 13 Episodes from the Series’ Ninth Season
DVD Features: Over Two Hours of Extra Content, Including Five All-New Featurettes, A Full-Length Audio Commentary, Unaired Scenes and a Gag Reel

Fans will relish every heart-stopping moment in the 13 episodes of this final season. New parents Brooke and Julian adjust to twin babies and two careers. Haley embarks on a crash course in crisis management when Nathan's work trip to Europe takes a dark and devastating turn. Quinn and Clay, Millie and Mouth, Alex and Chase strap themselves into love's roller coaster. Patriarchs resurface, long-unseen friends rally forces, and a foe is vanquished. Despair looms on the horizon, yet redemption and renewal are close at hand in the powerful, heartfelt conclusion of One Tree Hill.

News Update: Chad Shares Conspiracy Theories, Why Joy is F-ing Gifted & More!

‘ONE TREE HILL’ SCOOP: CHAD MICHAEL MURRAY SPILLS SECRETS ABOUT LUCAS' RETURN
BY ANDY SWIFT

Click For More Pics of Lucas' Return

What has Lucas been up to? Where is Peyton? And why does Lucas look so much like little Jamie? Chad tells all!

Chad Michael Murray returns to One Tree Hill on the Feb. 22 episode; and while his hair is questionable, his motives are pure. HollywoodLife.com was lucky enough to be on the show’s North Carolina set for Lucas’ epic return, so of course I had to grill the triple-named wonder about what Lucas has planned for his visit to Tree Hill — and what he heck he’s been up to since driving off into the sunset with Peyton (Hilarie Burton) at the end of season six.

First thing’s first: Chad informed us that Lucas has been “over in New Zealand,” far away from the drama of Tree Hill. Also, “he thinks the kiwis are quite nice.” But while Chad was happy to fill us in on all things Lucas, he said Peyton’s whereabouts will — sadly — remain the most mysterious of mysteries. “I don’t want to give you all the spoilers, but no, I don’t think we find anything out,” he told us.

Bethany Joy Galeotti  as Haley James Scott
& Chad Michael Murray as Lucas Scott

And as for those letters Haley (Bethany Joy Galeotti) sent Lucas last season — like, at the beginning every single episode — it turns out they were all pretty one-sided. “I decided that, yes, he did [answer her letters],” Chad said. “But we discover [in this episode] that I haven’t. So I guess I haven’t.”

Though Chad admitted that reprising his role as Lucas presented a slight “challenge,” he was more excited than anything else — especially to be working with Bethany. “I love Joy,” he told us. “She’s just so f—ing gifted, excuse my langage. When you say someone’s good and how much talent they really truly possess, sometimes an expletive is the only way to say it.”

And because I loves me a good conspiracy theory, I had to ask Chad if he ever thought it was weird that Jamie (Jackson Brundage) looks more like Lucas than Nathan (James Lafferty). “I have always said, ‘Dude, that’s my kid,’” Chad told us. “Where the hell was I 10 years ago?”

(Doing the nasty with Haley, apparently.)

So One Tree Hill fans, are you excited for Lucas’ return on this week’s episode? Hit the comments section and tell me your favorite — or least favorite — memory of Lucas. I’ve got a few to share myself!

— Andy Swift

Source: ONE TREE HILL SCOOP: CHAD MICHAEL MURRAY SPILLS SECRETS ON LUCAS' RETURN

Video Update: One Tree Hill 9.05 "The Killing Moon"

“ONE TREE HILL” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)
“The Killing Moon” (TV-14, LV) (HDTV)

NATHAN IS MISSING AND HALEY FEARS THE WORST— As Quinn (Shantel VanSanten) distracts Jamie (Jackson Brundage), Haley (Bethany Joy Galeotti) searches for Nathan (James Lafferty). Clay (Robert Buckley) finally gets answers about his condition. Meanwhile, Julian (Austin Nichols) attempts to get back to a normal life, while Brooke (Sophia Bush) tries to give Tara (guest-star Chelsea Kane “Dancing with the Stars”) a chance. Lee Norris, Lisa Goldstein, Stephen Colletti, Tyler Hilton and Paul Johansson also star. The episode was written by Shaina Fewell and directed by Greg Prange (#905).

News Update: 9.04 Promo

“ONE TREE HILL” — (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET)

“Don't You Want to Share the Guilt?” (TV-14, LV) (HDTV)

HALEY AND JAMIE ANXIOUSLY AWAIT NATHAN'S RETURN - As Julian (Austin Nichols) deals with his guilt, Brooke (Sophia Bush) helps Haley (Bethany Joy Galeotti) confront a new rival cafe, and its difficult owner. Meanwhile, Chase's (Stephen Colletti) new girl has a complicated secret, and Quinn (Shantel VanSanten) takes extreme measures that help Clay (Robert Buckley) realize he's worse off than he thought. James Lafferty, Tyler Hilton, Lee Norris, Lisa Goldstein, and Paul Johansson also star. The episode was written by Nikki Schiefelbein and directed by Les Butler (#904).

News Update: ‘One Tree Hill’ Through The Years: The Evolution Of Haley

Before watching tonight’s ‘One Tree Hill, browse our gallery of Haley’s nine-year journey, including new quotes from Bethany Joy Galeotti.

Tutor Girl. Baby Mama. Kelly Clarkson. Yes, Haley James Scott has gone by many different names during her nine seasons on One Tree Hill — and I’ve loved every one of them. During a recent visit to the show’s North Carolina set, HollywoodLife.com chatted with Bethany Joy Galeotti about all things Haley, and it got me thinking about just how far she’s come.

“I’m happy with Haley, what she’s been through and where she’s come,” Bethany says of heading into the show’s final season. “What more could [the fans] ask for than to see everybody kind of come back to where they started, back to why everyone fell in love with the show in the first place?”

I couldn’t agree more.

Season 1: Tutor Haley
When I watch season one reruns, I barely even recognize Haley -- and not just because she was frequently hidden under that ridiculous hat. Attached to best friend Lucas (Chad Michael Murray) at the hip, Haley was shy, insecure, and strangest of all, NOT with Nathan (James Lafferty). Still, Bethany says there's one thing about Haley that will never change: "She will land in the same place she started -- just a simple girl who enjoys a simple life."

Season 2: Teen Bride Haley
Who knew being married in high school would be so difficult? Oh, right, everyone but Haley and Nathan (James Lafferty)! The couple spent their first year of wedded bliss fighting to stay together, and it certainly didn't help that Haley's music career -- and "mentor" Chris Keller (Tyler Hilton) -- kept getting in the way.

Season 3: Determined Haley
With most of her friendships -- and her marriage -- in the pooper at the start of season three, Haley needed to do some major life re-building. She re-connected with Peyton (Hilarie Burton) by helping her record a cancer benefit CD, she re-connected with Lucas (Chad Michael Murray) by sharing the secret of his heart condition, and she re-connected with Nathan (James Lafferty) by taking part in a second wedding. Oh, and she became a cheerleader.

Season 4: 17-And-Pregnant Haley
Haley thought her whole world was going to fall apart when she became pregnant her senior year of high school, but thanks to her strong support system, she managed to keep it all together. She was even able to stay on the cheer squad, which you'd think would seem kind of trashy -- but come on, this is Tree Hill. Pregnant cheerleaders are adorable. And they always end up becoming valedictorian.

Season 5: Hot Teacher Haley
For Haley, growing up meant putting her dreams aside and getting serious about her future. So her music, unfortunately, was put on the back burner as she raised Jamie (Jackson Brundage) and returned to Tree Hill High School to begin her teaching career following the 4+ year jump. Her marriage to Nathan (James Lafferty) also hit a few bumps, first as he struggled to find himself following his accident, and again when slutty Nanny Carrie (Torrey DeVitto) tried to steal him away.

Season 6: Nanny-Slayer Haley
Barring the return of a certain psychotic nanny (Torrey DeVitto), season six was a relatively painless one for Haley -- and the cherry on top was officiating Lucas (Chad Michael Murray) and Peyton's (Hilarie Burton) wedding. Bethany says season six also featured her favorite episode of the series: "I had a blast filming the 40s episode. It was a little corny, but whatever. Favorite episode, that was just great top to bottom."

Season 7: Broken Haley
Everyone is entitled to a breakdown at some point, and Haley's came in season seven. After getting arrested for assaulting the woman who claimed she slept with Nathan (James Lafferty) -- Haley slapped that bitch good, by the way -- she was forced to deal with the death of her mother. But she pulled through, as she always does, and even ended the season with some good news: Baby #2 was on the way!

Season 8: Happy Haley
Season eight found Haley better -- and bigger -- than ever. With the least amount of drama in her life than she's ever had, Haley found the time to focus on what was more important to her: friends and family. Not only did she grow closer to sister Quinn (Shantel VanSanten), but she also welcomed baby Lydia into the fold. Hooray for babies!

Season 9: 'Unraveled' Haley

We may not know exactly what's in store for Haley in her final season, but we do know it doesn't involve very much Nathan (James Lafferty). And it's dark. Bethany tells us that season nine is "a lot about Haley finding out what her limits are," as she deals with the return of Dan (Paul Johansson) and the general "unraveling" of her life. Should be fun!

OK, let’s talk about Haley: Do you prefer her as a big-city rocker, or a small-town mom? What do you hope to see from her in this final season, and how would you like her character to finish the series? Drop a comment below with your thoughts on Miz James Scott.

– Andy Swift

To view the gallery and leave a comment click, HERE.

Video Update: Bethany Joy Galeotti Talks "OTH" Challenges

The "One Tree Hill" actress spills deets on Haley's new baby and intense challenges that her character will face this season. Plus, hear her message to fans!

Watch more E! interviews, HERE.

News Update: 'One Tree Hill' Stars Reflect

BETHANY JOY GALEOTTI CHATS WITH THR DURING A TELEVISION CRITICS ASSOC. EVENT 

Bethany Joy Galeotti, James Lafferty and Sophia Bush at TCA party

Nine seasons. Nearly 200 episodes. That will be One Tree Hill's legacy in a nutshell when the CW officially closes the book on the long-running drama in a few months.

"It’s done. All the stages have been torn down," James Lafferty (Nathan) told The Hollywood Reporter at a Television Critics Assoc. party celebrating the show Thursday. "It’s the end of the road and we’ve crossed the finish line. You get more of a sense of accomplishment than you do sadness."

Production on the final season wrapped in October but it still hasn't sunk in yet for Lafferty and company, many of whom -- along with executive producers Mark Schwahn, who told THR season 9 will be "dark," and Joe Davola -- showed up to the evening's festivities. "I’m really grateful. It’s quite a journey," Bethany Joy Galeotti (Haley) said to THR of nine seasons on the WB and the CW.

Lafferty, Galeotti and co-star Sophia Bush (Brooke), who directed the series' penultimate episode, took a moment to look back on their One Tree Hill experience and offered nuggets to the weeks ahead:

THE FINAL SCENE

Bush: "I was the last person who was filmed on the show, so the final scene for me was the final scene for One Tree Hill."
Galeotti: "The final scene I shot was a scene on the stage and it's on Julian's (Austin Nichols) soundstage. It was a very emotional day. We all took turns. We all walked through the door across the stage on-camera and hopefully, they'll use that last shot somewhere."
Lafferty: "We all had different last days. For me, my last day was just weird. It was strange. It's impossible for it to feel like the last day because we've been doing it for so long. I won't remember that being the last day til two months, a year down the road when I realize it's never coming back. My final scene was with Bethany Joy Galeotti. I can't give it away but that was my final scene."

THEME OF THE FINAL SEASON

Lafferty: "It is [very dark]. It's a totally different season and it's something we haven't seen before -- a tall statement for what One Tree Hill is. We've done some pretty outlandish things. We've taken the audience on several rollercoasters but I can guarantee you that the audience has never seen anything like this so far."
Bush, of Schwahn's hint that not everyone will be seen by season's end: "I can't say anything about it otherwise they're going to kill me!"
Galeotti: "A lot of characters return who you haven't seen in a while. That's a lot of what this season is about, bringing the nostalgia of the last nine seasons." (Former series regular Chad Michael Murray will be back for an appearance.)

WHAT'S IN STORE FOR TREE HILL

Galeotti: "Haley's journey is going to be finding out what her limits are, what she's capable of and exploring how to hold down the fort."
Lafferty: "For the first time in his life, Nathan is put in a situation that he has absolutely no control over. It's frustrating for him to have to deal with it."

One Tree Hill airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. on the CW.

Read the entire article at HERE.

One Tree Hill Episode Review

Galeotti as "Haley James Scott"

KNOW THIS WE’VE NOTICED 
Airdate: Jan. 11th, 2012
Ratings: 1.7 million (.9/2 in key demos, down from last year)

I haven’t enjoyed ONE TREE HILL holistically since season four. These days I only commit myself to mining for the Scott Family drama (you know, the core of the show). However, last night I forced myself to watch the episode from beginning to end. I won’t go into great lengths defending my opinions but I was pleasantly surprised – imagine that!

Overall Episode: C+

WHAT I LOVED

HALEY IS THE GLUE THAT HOLDS: Haley is the only person willing to leave the confines of her bed long enough to socialize with a diverse group of characters, in diverse settings. A lot of these characters are so isolated in their own little worlds, that hearing Alex and Dan, or Brooke and Clay may share scenes is just outrageous. Why would the writers even spend time on that? Oh, that’s right they don’t.

But put Haley in a scene with anyone, anywhere and it makes sense and has substance. Haley is so deeply integrated in so many storylines and invested in the lives of so many Tree Hill residents that the writers don’t need to overcompensate with a contrived montage of her driving around town to remind us her relevance and importance in Tree Hill.

From Brooke and Julian, to Quinn and Clay, to Dan and Nathan, all the way to Chris, Chase and Alex, Haley’s presence reminds fans that all these disjointed stories actually do exist within the same town of Tree Hill.

I thoroughly enjoyed all of Haley's scenes, particularly those she shared with the villainous Dan Scott and the always entertaining “stupid, lying, arrogant, third person talking jerk” also known as, Chris Keller.

My favorite line: "Haley, Chris Keller missed you." (Aw, he does have a heart!)

HARRY JOHSON: Seeing Chris Keller back on our screens invigorates One Tree Hill in so many ways. I love the banter between Chris and Haley and I was laughing my butt off every time Chris would make an inappropriate pass at Haley (“by the way did I mention you look hot?” Yes, Chris. Yes you did, and multiple times. But we love it!) It’s so much fun seeing Haley get all riled up and feisty and I love that Chris is able to bring that out in her because it brings back a fire in Haley that’s reminiscent to Tutor Girl from back in the day.

THE RETURN OF THE MURDERER: I love the chemistry between Joy and Paul and I guess by the transitive property that means I love Dan and Haley; even though it’s so wrong! I refuse to forget that this is the same man that shot his brother dead in cold blood but lord, Paul Johansson makes it a little too easy to tolerate the disturbing fact. His plea to Haley was so convincing and seemed so genuine, I almost felt bad. Although I did regret it afterwards. I know a lot of fans will give Haley hell, but I hope Nathan will deal with this so Haley doesn’t have to on her own.

THE MYSTERY: In the first two minutes we got a flash forward glimpse of Haley identifying a body at the morgue. Throughout the episode we saw Haley get spooked when the front door of the Café and the Scott house were left open. And now I’m left wondering, who the hell these people are! My curiosity is definitely piqued, and I’m ready for the drama that is sure to ensue.

WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE

(Left-Right) James Lafferty and Bethany Joy Galeotti

NALEY: I would’ve enjoyed the Nathan and Haley scenes more if A. they were in the same room, B. they didn’t repeat themselves over, and over again (the dialogue is so dry that hearing Nathan call Haley an “angel” is the most affectionate they’ll get for a while) and C. James Lafferty was shirtless. Just sayin’. It’s been a while.

In short we need to see more of the Scott family and less where Chase & Alex are concerned.

Otherwise, I have no complaints where Haley is concerned. The premiere did her justice compared to the scraps we got in season eight. And I look forward to next week.

MY OUTLOOK: Optimistic

+ Also, I should add that Chris Keller, Dan Scott, Haley James, Nathan Scott, and my favorite Harry Johnson were all trending topics on Twitter last night. I hope the CW takes note of that because the marketing department has been doing the worst job promoting this season.

Video Update: In The Room Where You Sleep Preview

Family can be a little stressful. But in Tree Hill there's always a chance to patch things up...maybe. Don't miss One Tree Hill, all new this Wednesday 8/7c.

(Note: this is not the same promo they showed after the episode; this one actually includes a snippet of the Scott family having dinner.)

Video Update: Know This, We've Noticed Producer Preview

Don't miss the final season of ONE TREE HILL premiering TONIGHT.



Sit down with the man that started it all, Mark Schwahn introduces the final season and where it's headed. Catch the season premiere of One Tree Hill Wednesday at 8/7c on The CW.

News Update: Is a Duet in the Cards for Chris & Haley?

It's no secret that Tyler Hilton is back to shake things up in Tree Hill, but what does this mean for Haley? Zap2it's got the low down on Chris and why Joy considers Chris to be like Haley's "dipshit little brother." Also, is a duet in the cards for Haley and Chris this season? Continue reading to get your answer!

'ONE TREE HILL' EXCLUSIVE PIC: TYLER HILTON REVIVES CHRIS KELLER 

Over the summer, Zap2it was the first to tell you that Tyler Hilton was returning to "One Tree Hill" as the always controversial Chris Keller... and now we've got the first pic of a new, matured, more sophisticated Chris Keller in Season 9.

(Left-Right) Tyler Hilton, Michael May

Okay, so we're lying about the maturity thing. Chris Keller returns in the season premiere in a flurry of juvenile jokes, and we promise, you'll feel like he never left. (And, more importantly, you'll wish he'd never left!)


First thing is first: Don't worry, Keller isn't in town to break up Haley and Nathan. We visited the Wilmington, NC set in September and got the scoop from Hilton himself. "When [news broke] that I was coming back, everybody was like 'So excited! So excited! If you break up Nathan and Haley I'm going to kill you,'" he jokes. "I was hoping for a nanny position in the family. I don't think they want me anywhere near that." [...]

We're hoping that Hilton and Bethany Joy Galeotti will join forces for another song before the end, but they both warn that Haley's storyline is so harrowing this season, she may not break for much singing. "I love working with her as a musician and she's really talented, but as I was reading the scripts, I was like eh, maybe she's not going to be singing," Hilton says. "I would think that everything's going to end on a good note in the last episode, so maybe."

JUST JARED JR. Tyler Hilton laughs
it up with Bethany Joy Galeotti at
An Evening With One Tree Hill 

"I just can't imagine within the context of the storyline right now, because Haley's story is so heavy, I just don't know that she'd find time to go sing," Galeotti adds. "However, Tyler and I may sing together at some point, for an event or something like that, but as far as on the show... maybe. Maybe in the café. Maybe Mark could write a thing where Chris is singing and he's really good and it like makes me feel better, so I jump on stage. I don't know."

Even without a duet, Galeotti says that she's thrilled to be working with Hilton again. "Tyler and I have this sort of Abbott and Costello thing going on where I'm the straight man and he's the funny man and it works out wonderfully," she says. "We have a lot of fun together. And I love the Haley and Keller dynamic; it's so funny. He's kind of her dips*** little brother. She tolerates him. I think she's annoyed that there's someone in her life that she had an indiscretion with in her marriage. I certainly wouldn't have that person in my life if that had been me, but Haley is much more mature than I am, apparently."

Read the entire article here: 'One Tree Hill' exclusive pic: Tyler Hilton revives Chris Keller

Video Update: One Tree Hill 9.01 Sneak Peek

Don't miss the final season of ONE TREE HILL premiering Wednesday 8/7c.

"Someday we will harness the energies of love 

& we will have discovered fire."

Episode:  9.01 - Know This, We’ve Noticed
Airdate: 01/11
THE NINTH AND FINAL SEASON OF ONE TREE HILL WELCOMES NEW HOPES, CHALLENGES AND DANGERS " As Brooke (Sophia Bush) and Julian (Austin Nichols) begin to adjust to life with their new children, Haley (Bethany Joy Galeotti) and Nathan (James Lafferty) find themselves dealing with similar issues. Although they dont know it yet, faces from the past threaten to interrupt plans for all their futures. Meanwhile, a mysterious problem arises for Clay (Robert Buckley) and Quinn (Shantel VanSanten). Paul Johansson, Stephen Colletti, and Tyler Hilton also star. The episode was written and directed by Mark Schwahn (#901).

Blog Update: Wardrobe Wednesday

In her latest Wardrobe Wednesday, Joy proves once again there's nothing she doesn't look fabulous in. I'm loving this off the shoulder number, particularly because of its length, which tastefully shows off her amazing legs. This casual blue dress is a wonderful look, and I'm disappointed we never did see "Haley" wear it in an episode. 

Overall, I'm a fan! 
My rating: ★ ★ ★ ★

WARDROBE WEDNESDAY

Galeotti in wardrobe as Haley James Scott
on One Tree Hill

Digging into the archives today for Wardrobe Wednesday. Here's a behind-the-scenes snapshot from the Wardrobe room at OTH. I wish I knew the designer of this dress cause I love it :( But I thought you guys would like to see it anyway. Im actually not sure "Haley" ever got to wear this.


Read the update at Joy's blog, HERE. 

News Update: Sophia Bush on Brooke & Haley

In an exclusive in depth interview with Zap2it.com, Sophia Bush reveals what we can expect for Brooke's character, and more importantly how she and Bethany Joy Galeotti got into the rhythm of working together as their characters reopen Karen's Café.

'ONE TREE HILL': SOPHIA BUSH BRINGS BROOKE DAVIS TO LIFE ONE LAST TIME 

Sophia Bush

Confession: When Sophia Bush tweeted her final photo from the "One Tree Hill" set on the night that the series wrapped for good, we started crying. In public. It wasn't exactly our finest moment.

While the series may have ended for Sophia, though, we can look forward to 13 final episodes with Brooke Davis (and the rest of the gang, of course) before we officially say goodbye. We were lucky enough to visit Sophia and her co-stars in Wilmington back in September, when we sat down with Sophia and got the scoop on her last weeks with B. Davis.

When Season 9 begins, we meet Brooke in a very happy place as she and Haley (Bethany Joy Galeotti) bring back a bit of nostaglia for themselves -- and the fans -- at Karen's Café. "It's great that she and Haley have come together to start this café. Joy and I were having so much fun that first episode," Sophia says, sitting with us in the "Naley" house living room set as thunder raged outside the studio. "We had this whole rhythm down -- how we would move, and where we could keep our aprons, and what we'd do to make it look like we'd done it a million times already. That's really great for [Brooke], and it's such a tie to the community and where she grew up. Brooke, more than anyone, has wanted nothing more than to be in her home. So I love her having that, and I love Brooke and Haley having that partnership, because they're such good friends."

Read more on Sophia's interview, HERE.