It seems that One Tree Hill introduces a new character to stir things up every few episodes.  Last season brought us the likes of Mia, Millicent and Quentin, while this year we've met Mick, Julian and Sam, among others.  Despite the abundance of new additions, I try to stay open-minded and give each character a shot at winning me over.  Unfortunately, not all characters are created equal, and some end up being less lovable than others.

My biggest issue with season 6 of One Tree Hill, aside from the ridiculously annoying Gigi, is the character of Sam.  She's gone from being a cookie-cutter rebel to a boring, sardonic teen.  Last night's episode left us with hope that Brooke might ship her away so she can finally get a baby, but will it actually happen?

Not only is Sam a walking cliche of a character, but the way she's been integrated into Brooke's life is fairly implausible.  Perhaps it's realistic compared to Lucas' insanely speedy movie deal or the antics of Nanny Carrie, but otherwise it's hard to buy into.  Haley found a homeless teen living in a car, then with barely a phone call or any legal complications pawned her off on Brooke.  I'm not sure if the system would ever allow a single woman in her early twenties to foster a teen, but it's the kind of thing you have to go with on One Tree Hill.

I'm more than ready for Brooke to ship Sam off and replace her with a baby, but I have a feeling that's not going to happen.  Brooke actually cares about the teen, and I'm sure she has no desire to abandon her.  However, I do predict that Sam will run off on her own after overhearing Brooke's call with the adoption agent.  She probably won't stay gone for long, but a few Sam-free weeks would be more than welcome.

Aside from anything involving Sam or Ghost Quentin, last night's episode of One Tree Hill was fantastic.  It was great seeing Haley on stage again, and I also liked watching Millicent stand up to Gigi.  I really can't stand how Gigi has devolved into a one-note super-slut, so watching Milly put her in her place was awesome.  I'm also happy that Lucas will be continuing with the movie, as that's one of the best plot lines on the show.  I can't wait to see the casting process for the big screen version of An Unkindness of Ravens.  It'd be perfect if they could get some random CW actress to cameo as a wannabe Brooke.

Next week's episode of One Tree Hill takes place in the 1940s and is written by Chad Michael Murray.  It also looks like Sam will be sidelined, which already makes it one of the best episodes of the season.


- Don Williams, BuddyTV Staff Writer
(Image courtesy of the CW)