The 20-year-old moved to New York City when she was a toddler, however her older sister, Zoe - who is a barrister - lives and works in London.
Barton admits that was ready to leave 'The O.C.' but that it was the producers decision to make it happen.
Barton said: "I was really excited that I get to die, to be honest.
"I've done pretty much everything else with the character. It was better than one of those lame farewells."
During her two years on the show, her character had a lesbian fling, shot someone and battled depression, drug and alcohol abuse.
Barton has also ruled out her character returning to the screen in a 'Dallas'-style dream sequence.
She scoffed: "I hope not. That would be cheesy."

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