Barton told to gain weight for show

Mischa Barton has reportedly been ordered to put on weight or face losing her role in a new US TV show.

The former 'O.C.' actress has agreed to play the part of a supermodel in upcoming drama pilot 'A Beautiful Life'.

But Barton has been told to pile on the pounds by bosses who are worried her skinny frame will set a bad example to young viewers, according to The Daily Express.

A source says: "The producers are very mindful that their target audience is teenage girls so it's important to not send out the wrong message. Mischa has the part on condition she does not lose weight - they want her to put weight on if she can."