Baywatch Reboot: Surfing into the Future with a Fresh Cast and Modern Twist
Fox is reviving the iconic series Baywatch with a new cast and a modern twist. The original show, which aired from 1989 to 2001, followed the lives of lifeguards on California and Hawaii beaches as they dealt with various challenges. Baywatch became a global sensation in the '90s and featured a rotating cast of memorable actors like Nicole Eggert, Carmen Electra, and David Hasselhoff. In September 2025, Fox announced a reimagined version of the series in collaboration with Fremantle and original co-creator Greg Bonann.
The new Baywatch reboot aims to bring the California dream to a new generation of fans with fresh stories and rising stars. Fox President Michael Thorn expressed excitement about the comeback of the iconic series, while Fremantle's CEO of Global Drama, Christian Vesper, highlighted the show's legacy and global appeal. With showrunner Matt Nix leading the way, the goal is to engage existing fans and introduce a new audience to the world of the famous lifeguards.
While an official premiere date has not been confirmed, Fox hinted at a potential release during the 2026/2027 TV season. The reboot has received a straight-to-series order with 12 episodes in its debut season. Stephen Amell has been cast as Hobie Buchannon, the son of original series lead Mitch, played by David Hasselhoff. The series will follow Hobie as he navigates unexpected family revelations and strives to continue the Buchannon family legacy as a lifeguard.
In addition to Stephen Amell, Brooks Nader, Noah Beck, and Shay Mitchell have secured series regular roles in the upcoming Baywatch reboot. The network held an open casting call for a wide range of roles, inviting actors and non-actors aged 18 and above to audition for the show. The new iteration promises to deliver the same adrenaline-fueled rescues, complex relationships, and beachside heroics that defined the original series, but with a contemporary twist and renewed mission to protect Southern California's shoreline.
David Chokachi is set to reprise his original role as Cody Madison in the new Baywatch series. While the possibility of other original cast members returning remains open, Stephen Amell prefers to be surprised by the script and not know all the details in advance. As the production gears up for its highly anticipated return, fans can look forward to a fresh take on the beloved lifeguard drama with a mix of nostalgia and new adventures.