Barbara Alyn Woods is reminiscing about the serendipitous trajectory of her journey on "One Tree Hill." The now 63-year-old actress recently disclosed on the "Drama Queens" podcast that her portrayal of Deb Scott was initially meant to span a mere three episodes. During the episode, which also featured Bethany Joy Lenz, co-host Robert Buckley inquired, "What was the original concept behind Deb? How substantial was your role supposed to be, and what did it entail?"
"Deb was envisioned as a three-episode arc," Woods revealed, startling both hosts. Despite the character's initially fleeting presence, Woods admitted that she was deeply captivated by both the character and the show from day one. "At that time, I was simultaneously involved in another show in L.A., not as a regular but in a recurring role," she shared. "I was aware that 'One Tree Hill' wanted me for just three episodes. Yet, I was enchanted by this character. I was smitten with the show, its storyline, and its script."
Woods elaborated on the difficult decision she faced between two different series. "I admit, I didn't foresee myself staying beyond those initial three episodes, but I desperately wanted those three," she confessed. "I stood at a crossroads, having to choose between the two shows. The other show had potential to take me further as well. I weighed my options and ultimately chose 'One Tree Hill,' knowing it would only be for three episodes."
While Woods refrained from mentioning which show she opted out of, it's worth noting that she had roles in "Providence" and "American Dreams" around the same period.
Her intuition ultimately paid dividends. "They extended my stay, and I never went home," Woods recounted. "After three episodes, they informed me, 'They want to keep you here.' I hadn't even packed for an extended stay. I never returned home."
Woods emerged as a beloved figure among fans as Deb Scott, the mother of Nathan Scott, portrayed by James Lafferty, and remained a cherished part of the iconic teen drama far exceeding its original scope.
