Rachel Bilson praises Adam Brody’s ‘well-deserved’ renaissance sparked by Netflix role

Rachel Bilson is enthusiastically acknowledging Adam Brody’s career resurgence, now widely recognized as the "Adam Brody Renaissance." This renewed spotlight comes after his compelling portrayal of rabbi Noah in Netflix’s breakout series Nobody Wants This. The show, which has captivated viewers and been renewed for a second season, has propelled Brody back into the hearts of fans who fondly remember his earlier work. During a recent interview at a SimpliSafe launch event, Bilson spoke to PEOPLE about her excitement over Brody’s current success, calling it “well-deserved” and noting, “I feel like it’s always been there.”

The pair, who starred together on The O.C., are beloved for their on-screen chemistry as Seth Cohen and Summer Roberts, a relationship that became one of the most iconic on television in the early 2000s. This connection extended off-screen, with Bilson and Brody dating for three years during the height of the show’s popularity. Though their romantic relationship ended in 2006, they remain on good terms, occasionally reconnecting. In 2021, Brody even made a guest appearance on Bilson's The O.C. rewatch podcast, Welcome to the OC, Bitches!.

Bilson, who hasn't yet watched Nobody Wants This, shared her excitement for Brody and his co-star Kristen Bell, stating that she loves them both and is thrilled by the positive reception of the show. Bilson’s admiration for the rom-com genre continues, as she expressed her hope that Brody’s new role might spark a larger rom-com revival. She also reflected on her time working with Brody, noting that their shared experience of rising to fame together as young actors was a significant source of support during the whirlwind success of The O.C..

With Brody’s latest venture drawing in new fans and rekindling interest among longtime admirers, it’s clear that his career has entered a new phase, and Bilson couldn’t be happier for her former co-star.