Baywatch has been a defining pop culture phenomenon for decades, celebrated for its sun-soaked beaches, daring rescues, and lifeguards who became household names worldwide. Its mix of action, drama, and family dynamics turned characters like Mitch Buchannon into cultural icons and helped launch the careers of stars such as Pamela Anderson, David Hasselhoff, and Jason Momoa. With such a lasting legacy, Fox is bringing the franchise back with a modern reboot that honors the original while introducing fresh storylines and new characters.

And now, the series has already landed its first confirmed casting with Stephen Amell, signaling the start of production on the 12-episode revival and setting the stage for the next generation of Baywatch lifeguards.

Fox has officially cast Stephen Amell, best known for his role as Oliver Queen on Arrow, in the lead role of the upcoming Baywatch reboot, as reported by Variety. Amell will portray Hobie Buchannon, the beloved “wild child” from the original series, now stepping into the role of a Baywatch Captain, following in the footsteps of his legendary father, Mitch.

“From the first conversation, Stephen Amell brought exactly what this new chapter of Baywatch demands: heart, intensity, and that undeniable hero energy,” said series showrunner Matt Nix, as per the outlet. The show is set to premiere during Fox’s 2026-2027 broadcast season with production scheduled to begin this spring in Los Angeles.

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Will this reboot capture the thrill and heart that made Baywatch a global sensation?

The reboot aims to honor the original’s legacy while introducing new storylines and characters. Fox is also hosting an open casting call on February 18, giving aspiring actors a chance to join the next generation of lifeguards. The original Baywatch aired from 1989 to 2001, becoming a global phenomenon at once.

The franchise also saw a feature film reboot in 2017 with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who recently teamed up with Amazon MGM for Country Roads, and Zac Efron. With Stephen Amell at the helm as Hobie Buchannon, production underway, and an open casting call approaching, the stage is set for Baywatch to make a triumphant return. Fans can expect high-stakes rescues, family drama, and all the beachside action that made the series a cultural icon.

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Are you excited to watch the reboot of Baywatch? Let us know in the comments!