Burton-Morgan was cast in The WB drama series "One Tree Hill" as Peyton Sawyer, an independent visual and musical artist and cheerleader, in April 2003. The series premiered on September 23, 2003, and went on to be the network's top rated program of the year. The role was considered Burton-Morgan's breakout role and is her best known to date. For her role in the series, Burton-Morgan was featured on the cover of "Maxim", "American Cheerleader Magazine" and "People". Her performance received critical praise and she earned three Teen Choice Award nominations. In May 2009, The CW announced Burton-Morgan would not be returning for the show's seventh season based on her own decision not to return, contrary to rumors she left due to salary issues.