mischa-barton-hospital

With all the news about Misca Barton’s hospitalization following allegations of everything from a three-day coke binge to being near suicide, the CW’s “The Beautiful Life” has postponed production and rededicated its resources to helping her.  Nah, just kidding.  They’ve added a new character to take her place.

Producers of the upcoming model-centric drama are quietly readying a Plan B in light of the former O.C. actress’ current medical woes. Said plan involves the addition of a new female character to fill the void left by Barton. While not a direct recast, the new recurring character — tentatively named Jane — would bear a striking resemblance to Barton’s experienced supermodel, Sonja Stone. Casting is underway.  [EW.com]

Ruh roh.  Not the best of news, Misch.  And shocking news, at that.  I always thought TV studios were more compassionate than that.    What’s next, child actors developing a drug problem and ending up hospitalized?

(photo: Barton at Cedars-Sinai hospital in Beverly Hills three days ago)