Chad Michael Murray is hoping to create a special reunion moment for fans of One Tree Hill by bringing some familiar faces into the world of Sullivan’s Crossing for its upcoming fifth season. Following the CW’s official renewal of the popular drama, the actor opened up about his excitement for the show’s future and revealed that he already has a few former co-stars in mind who could make meaningful appearances in the farm-based series.

In an interview with Good Housekeeping in late June, Murray shared his enthusiasm for the possibility of reconnecting with members of the One Tree Hill cast on Sullivan’s Crossing. The actor, best known for playing Lucas Scott during the first six seasons of the beloved teen drama, said he would love to see two specific actors join him on the new series: Craig Sheffer and Barry Corbin.
“I would bring in Craig Sheffer for a little Lucas and Keith action, or, you know, good old Barry Corbin,” Murray explained. He added that Corbin would be a particularly natural fit for the environment of Sullivan’s Crossing because of the actor’s connection to horses and the show’s rural farm setting. Murray suggested that having either performer appear would create a meaningful moment for longtime viewers while also adding something special to the current storyline.
The idea of reuniting with former One Tree Hill cast members is something Murray has considered for some time. He revealed that the possibility had already been discussed previously when producers asked him whether there was anyone from his past series who might fit into the new show. However, finding the right opportunity required more than simply bringing in familiar faces; the guest roles needed to make sense within the story and the world of Sullivan’s Crossing.
Murray explained that while several possibilities were considered, not every option matched the direction the series needed. Eventually, the team found the right opportunity with Marcus Rosner, who joined the show as Liam. According to Murray, the role required a particular type of character, and Rosner perfectly matched what they were searching for. He praised Rosner’s performance and said the actor successfully delivered what the storyline needed.

Although no official announcement has been made about Craig Sheffer or Barry Corbin appearing in season 5, Murray’s comments have already sparked excitement among One Tree Hill fans who would welcome a reunion. Both actors played important roles in the original series and remain closely connected to some of its most memorable moments.
Craig Sheffer portrayed Keith Scott, Lucas Scott’s uncle and one of the most influential figures in Lucas’ early life on One Tree Hill. Keith was introduced as a caring and supportive presence who often acted as a father figure to Lucas during difficult times. His relationship with Lucas became one of the emotional foundations of the series, making him a character that many viewers still remember. Keith’s storyline took a tragic turn when the character was killed during the third season episode “With Tired Eyes, Tired Minds, Tired Souls, We Wept,” one of the most dramatic and heartbreaking episodes in the show’s history. However, Sheffer later returned through flashback appearances in later seasons, allowing fans to see Keith again.
Barry Corbin also holds a special place in One Tree Hill history. He played Whitey Durham, the respected basketball coach of the Tree Hill Ravens and a mentor figure who guided many of the young characters throughout their high school years. Whitey was known for his wisdom, compassion, and ability to inspire the players both on and off the court. Corbin appeared regularly during the first four seasons of the series before returning in a recurring capacity during seasons five and six.
For Murray, bringing these actors into Sullivan’s Crossing would not simply be about nostalgia. Their potential appearances could create a bridge between two important chapters of his career while giving longtime fans an opportunity to see familiar relationships and personalities in a new setting. The actor’s comments suggest that he values the connection between his past work and his current projects, especially when those connections can enhance the story rather than exist only as a reference for viewers.

As Sullivan’s Crossing moves forward into its fifth season, fans will be watching closely to see whether Murray’s dream reunion becomes a reality. With the show’s renewal confirmed and the actor openly expressing his interest in welcoming former colleagues, the possibility of seeing Craig Sheffer or Barry Corbin return to the screen alongside him has become one of the most exciting potential developments for followers of both series.
Whether or not the reunion happens, Murray’s enthusiasm highlights the lasting impact of One Tree Hill and the strong bonds formed among its cast members. A special appearance from either actor could bring a powerful emotional connection to Sullivan’s Crossing while honoring the legacy of the show that helped make Murray a household name.