Rod(ney) Harrington is a fictional character on the television drama Peyton Place. He was portrayed by Ryan O'Neal. He was also a character on the 1957 film adaptation of the original novel. In this version, he was portrayed by Barry Coe. In the film, Rodney is a popular guy at school who has a fling with Betty Anderson. They go to the 18th birthday party of Allison MacKenzie together. However, Rodney ends up kissing Allison. At the prom night, he wants to go with Betty. Betty's father demands him marrying her. He is scared by this idea and decides to dump Betty for Allison.