Two years after the demise of THE O.C., BEN McKENZIE is back on television in a role that’s almost the exact opposite of Ryan Atwood.  While his O.C. character was a bad boy who came from the streets and found himself thrust into a life of privilege, his role on NBC’s SOUTHLAND is that of a rookie cop from a privileged background who must adapt to the mean streets of L.A.  The show’s pedigree is solid: It’s from producer JOHN WELLS, whose previous work includes ER and THE WEST WING.  The gritty, compelling pilot also features cast regulars REGINA KING, MICHAEL CUDLITZ and SHAWN HATOSY.  McKENZIE told us about his character, Ben Sherman, and the difficulties he faces as the new guy on the force. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR BELOW)