In the early 2000s, Rachel Bilson was known for her on-screen portrayals in a bikini- and printed scarf-wearing Summer Roberts in the hit series. The OC But off screen, the actor was among a group of Hollywood stars—including Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan—targeted by a group of teenagers in a series of robberies that inspired Sofia Coppola's 2013 film. Bling ring.
“When I think back to when the break-in happened, it was completely preventable,” Bilson tells the Observer, recalling that he was targeted by the “Bling Ring” gang several times. Over the years, security has been on Bilson's mind, which is why he recently partnered with a home security company, SimpliSafe.
“SimpliSafe and its technology is all about preventing break-ins before they happen,” he explained of the company's new outdoor surveillance service. “I really like the 24/7 monitoring – I think that makes you feel protected and safe that someone is always here.”
While she was determined to leave the hack in the past, the Los Angeles actress was happy to revisit her acting days. The OChosted a retrospective podcast with colleague Melinda Clarke. “It's so funny because I have no memory, so watching the podcast was like watching everything for the first time,” he said of the podcast, which includes appearances by musical stars Mischa Barton and Adam Brody, as well as the show. creator, Josh Schwartz. “It wasn't very easy to go back and see everything, and I just realized that I love the game, I love working with everyone and I loved being in the summer.”
However The OC The podcast wrapped last year, Bilson has started a second podcast, Broader Ideas. Hosted by her real-life best friend, Olivia Allen, the podcast features interviews with celebrities, authors and the two teenagers behind the “Bling Ring” heist, where they discuss all things mental health and parenting (Bilson shares Briar's daughter). Rose and ex-partner Hayden Christensen) go ghost. “We really want to create a safe space for people to talk about anything—even if it's inappropriate.”
On a recent trip to New York City, the Observer sat down with Bilson to discuss her current priorities, from the only product behind her skincare routine to her. The OC-the inspired dress he never took off, no matter what.
