What Happened to Baywatch Reboot?

The journey of the 'Baywatch' reboot has been multifaceted, beginning with a largely unsuccessful cinematic attempt and culminating in a highly anticipated television series. The first major modern revival was the 2017 'Baywatch' film, an action-comedy starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron. Released on May 25, 2017, the movie grossed $177.9 million worldwide against a budget of $65–69 million, making it a commercial success in terms of raw numbers. However, it was widely panned by critics, holding an 18% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 37 out of 100 on Metacritic, with many criticizing its crude humor and lack of the original series' charm. Despite this, audiences polled by CinemaScore gave it a 'B+' grade. Discussions for a sequel to the film did occur, but the mixed critical reception and Dwayne Johnson's busy schedule ultimately prevented it from moving forward.

Following the film, FremantleMedia International began exploring a television series reboot in August 2018. Development officially commenced on April 14, 2023, with Fremantle engaging in early talks with various broadcasters and streamers. A significant turning point arrived on March 4, 2024, when Fremantle and Fox Entertainment announced their collaboration on the reboot series, initially with Lara Olsen attached as writer and showrunner. This partnership signaled a serious commitment to bringing 'Baywatch' back to the small screen.

The project gained substantial momentum in September 2025 when Fox officially gave a straight-to-series order for 12 episodes, slated for the 2026-27 television season. Concurrently, Matt Nix, known for 'Burn Notice,' took over as showrunner and executive producer, with original series creators Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, and Doug Schwartz also on board as executive producers. The new series received a significant boost from California's expanded Film & Television Tax Credit Program, securing a $21.1 million/40% tax credit.

Casting announcements for the new series began in early 2026, building considerable anticipation. On February 13, 2026, Stephen Amell was cast as an adult Hobie Buchannon, who has followed in his father Mitch's footsteps to become a Baywatch Captain. David Chokachi was also confirmed to reprise his role as Cody Madison, linking the new series to the original. Throughout March, April, and May 2026, additional cast members were announced, including Jessica Belkin as Hobie's previously unknown daughter, Charlie Vale, and other new lifeguards played by Hassie Harrison, Brooks Nader, Noah Beck, and Shay Mitchell. Original cast members Erika Eleniak (Shauni McClain), Michael Bergin (J.D. Darius), and Kelly Packard (April Giminski) were also confirmed to return in recurring roles. Filming commenced in March 2026 across iconic Southern California locations like Venice Beach and Malibu.

As of October 1, 2026, the 'Baywatch' television series reboot is actively in production, with a premiere date set for January 2027 on Fox. Episodes are expected to be available on Hulu shortly after their broadcast. The series aims to deliver a modern reimagining of the classic lifeguard drama, focusing on daring rescues, complex personal lives, and the enduring appeal of the 'Baywatch' brand for a new generation while honoring its legacy. In parallel, a documentary titled 'After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun' aired on Hulu on August 28, 2024, further demonstrating the franchise's lasting cultural impact.