London, Jan 12 American actor Ryan O'Neal has been ordered to take up an 18-month rehabilitation program after he pleaded guilty in a Los Angeles court to possessing drugs.

In September 08, Ryan, 67, and his 23-year-old son were charged with possession of drugs after the police carried out a routine search at their Malibu home under the terms of Redmond O'Neal's probation for an earlier drug possession case.

But after the actor admitted to possessing methamphetamine, he was told the case would be dropped if he completed the rehab programme.

His son will appear in court next month to face the same charge, plus one of possessing drug paraphernalia.

O'Neal, who is best known for the 1970 film Love Story, will have to return to court on July 10 for a progress report. (ANI)