FOX Makes Waves with Bold "Baywatch" Revival for 2026–27 Season
2025-10-01 |
Story by: Daniel Bevers
FOX Television Network is diving back into iconic waters with a bold reimagining of Baywatch, the legendary lifeguard action-drama that captivated audiences across the globe. Marking 25 years since the original wrapped its epic 11-season run, the reboot has received a straight-to-series order with 12 episodes slated for the 2026–27 season.
Produced by Fremantle and FOX Entertainment, this updated take on the worldwide phenomenon will introduce an all-new cast of lifeguards sporting those classic red swimsuits as they patrol Southern California’s sun-soaked beaches. The revival promises to blend nostalgia with fresh storytelling, beachside heroics, and the kind of high-stakes drama that made the original a global sensation.
Executive producers include original creators Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, and Doug Schwartz, along with Dante Di Loreto and Matt Nix (Burn Notice), who also steps in as showrunner.
“In its first run, Baywatch defined an entire era of beach life and elevated lifeguards to iconic status,” said Michael Thorn, President of FOX Television Network. “Now, with Fremantle and Matt Nix onboard, we’re bringing the California dream to a whole new generation of fans—with fresh faces, new stories, and all the spectacle that made Baywatch a cultural juggernaut.”
Christian Vesper, CEO of Global Drama at Fremantle, added: “Baywatch has always been one of the crown jewels in our portfolio. With FOX as our partner and Matt Nix leading the charge, we’re in great hands. This new chapter will honor the legacy while capturing the imagination of a new generation.”
Originally debuting in 1989, Baywatch became the most-watched television show on Earth, airing in over 200 countries and drawing more than a billion viewers weekly at its peak. The series catapulted stars like David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, Jason Momoa, Carmen Electra, and Yasmine Bleeth into global fame.
The reboot aims to recapture the adrenaline, romance, and sun-drenched tension that defined the original, while addressing contemporary themes and challenges. With its mix of high-octane rescues, tangled relationships, and a renewed mission to protect the coast, Baywatch is ready to make a splash once again.
Executive producers include original creators Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, and Doug Schwartz, along with Dante Di Loreto and Matt Nix (Burn Notice), who also steps in as showrunner.
“In its first run, Baywatch defined an entire era of beach life and elevated lifeguards to iconic status,” said Michael Thorn, President of FOX Television Network. “Now, with Fremantle and Matt Nix onboard, we’re bringing the California dream to a whole new generation of fans—with fresh faces, new stories, and all the spectacle that made Baywatch a cultural juggernaut.”
Christian Vesper, CEO of Global Drama at Fremantle, added: “Baywatch has always been one of the crown jewels in our portfolio. With FOX as our partner and Matt Nix leading the charge, we’re in great hands. This new chapter will honor the legacy while capturing the imagination of a new generation.”
Originally debuting in 1989, Baywatch became the most-watched television show on Earth, airing in over 200 countries and drawing more than a billion viewers weekly at its peak. The series catapulted stars like David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, Jason Momoa, Carmen Electra, and Yasmine Bleeth into global fame.
The reboot aims to recapture the adrenaline, romance, and sun-drenched tension that defined the original, while addressing contemporary themes and challenges. With its mix of high-octane rescues, tangled relationships, and a renewed mission to protect the coast, Baywatch is ready to make a splash once again.