From 2003-2007, Benjamin McKenzie set hearts a'flutter as Ryan Atwood on "The O.C.." Now, he's starring as a rookie LAPD officer in producer John Wells' April 9-premiering "Southland" -- and getting recognized on the street.

"We're shooting almost all of it on practical locations. About five or six days out of a seven or eight day schedule, we're out in Hollywood or Downtown L.A., which is great for the look and feel of the show," he says. Fans have gathered at the location sites.

"Sometimes, they ask me, 'Why are you dressed as a cop?' You also get the people who actually think you are a cop," Ben adds with a laugh. "I've had people come up and ask me for directions." And? "Sometimes, I give them directions. Sometimes, I have to say, 'Ma'am, or Sir, I really couldn't tell you. I have no idea.'"

With his new role and maturity, no doubt there will be a shift in the fan base of the handsome actor who's dated the likes of Zooey Deschanel, Emily VanCamp, and Rachel McAdams. He recognizes, "There won't be as many teenage girls, probably, watching a cop show. We'll see.

"'Southland' is an interesting mix, because the characters will have arcs -- it's not a procedural. The stories involve ongoing relationships in the characters' personal and professional lives. I hope people who were fans of 'The O.C.' embrace this show as well. Some -- many -- will watch it, I think. The ones that haven't been as engaged in cop shows might be drawn to this one. It's similar to 'ER' in that it's a show that revolves around a certain profession, but it's about these characters as people."