**Gavin DeGraw Admits He’s Never Watched ‘One Tree Hill’ Despite Iconic Theme Tune**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/gavin-degraw-one-tree-hill-061226-f153ed85d8f342eea85842f321ad996f.jpg)
Singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw, renowned for his 2003 hit “I Don’t Want to Be,” which served as the theme for the television series *One Tree Hill*, has publicly acknowledged that he has never seen the show. DeGraw made this revelation during the 2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame Annual Induction and Awards Dinner, held in New York City on June 11.
When questioned about his allegiance between characters Nathan and Lucas from the beloved series, DeGraw responded with a light-hearted admission. “You can’t ask me questions like this,” he quipped, “I’ve never seen the show physically, so I don’t watch TV. Shame, shame on me.”
Despite the show’s popularity and his song’s significant role within it, DeGraw insists that his lack of viewership is not a reflection on *One Tree Hill* itself. “It’s not personal against *One Tree Hill*,” he explained. “I have a TV, but it’s more like a nightlight. I haven’t watched TV since 1998. I’m an owner’s manual kind of guy; I read a lot of those instead.”
The impact of “I Don’t Want to Be” on DeGraw’s career has been profound. He acknowledged the changes it brought to his life, elevating his profile and transforming his financial circumstances. “The biggest impact, apart from my own experience, is seeing how it’s helped others with their identities,” he commented, illustrating the song’s resonance with listeners. “When people share how the song helped them during tough times, it truly means a lot.”
In an interview with E! hosted during the ceremony, DeGraw expressed appreciation for the cast and crew of *One Tree Hill*, although he admitted he never tuned into the series. “I hear the show is amazing,” he remarked. “It’s been great to me — and the fans have been amazing. But yeah, I don’t watch TV. Isn’t that weird?”
DeGraw previously reflected on the two-decade journey since he released his breakout album, *Chariot*, which featured “I Don’t Want to Be.” While discussing this milestone in a 2024 interview, he spoke of the new energy he brings to his music after years on the road. “The songs and my performances developed over time just from playing them another 20,000 times live,” he noted, sharing his excitement for rediscovering ideas within his catalogue.
During the recent Songwriters Hall of Fame event, DeGraw contributed not only by participating in the festivities but also by performing alongside fellow honouree Kenny Loggins. The 2026 class of inductees included other luminaries such as Taylor Swift, Alanis Morissette, and members of KISS, showcasing a diverse and talented array of songwriters.
This outstanding event demonstrates the significant contributions that these artists have made to the music industry. DeGraw’s reflections underscore not only his personal journey within the music landscape but also the broader impact of songwriting, particularly how it can touch lives and shape identities.
As for the future, while DeGraw may not be a regular viewer of television, his musical legacy continues to thrive, showing that sometimes, one’s art speaks louder than any screen could convey. His connection with fans remains strong through the poignant messages embedded in his songs, reminding us all of the power that music holds in our lives.