Over 1,000 Hopefuls Hit the Beach in Red Swimsuits for “Baywatch” Reboot Auditions

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Despite the recent storms, thousands of actors turned out to a beach in Marina del Rey on Wednesday to audition for the new “Baywatch” TV show. According to Brittainy Roberts, Fox’s head of casting, the open call was looking for new and local talent, and attracted hopefuls of all ages eager for their big break.

The original “Baywatch” series aired from 1989 to 2001, showcasing the work and personal lives of lifeguards in Los Angeles and Hawaii. The show was a huge success around the world and helped make stars out of actors like Pamela Anderson, Carmen Electra, and David Hasselhoff. A 2017 film featuring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron proved the show still has a dedicated fanbase and remains popular today.

The team searching for the new cast had a tough job living up to the original “Baywatch,” as producer Roberts explained. They reviewed around 14,000 applications and held live auditions for about 2,000 people, with many hopefuls showing up dressed in the iconic red swimsuits and gear to capture the show’s classic look and feel. Joseph McGinty Nichol, the show’s executive producer and director of the first episode, oversaw the process.

David Chokachi, known for playing Cody Madison in the original show, will be back for the new version. He remembers a tough start, explaining that he had to audition hundreds of times before the show’s creators were happy. He described the experience as “one of the most surreal things that’s ever happened in my life.”

For many actors auditioning, this was an opportunity to pursue their dreams. Massiel Taveras, Miss Dominican Republic 2007, felt a strong connection to the show, saying, “I feel like I’m meant to be here.” Dominique Lopez, a broadcasting student at her first audition, found the experience surprisingly relaxed and felt good about simply trying out.

TMZ went to the auditions for the new “Baywatch” movie and filmed all the excitement as hopeful actors showed up! 🤩

— TMZ (@TMZ) February 19, 2026

The show came back to Los Angeles with some financial help – a $21 million state tax credit – aimed at boosting the local film and television industry. Councilmember Traci Park highlighted that these kinds of productions are important for keeping local actors, crew, and resources employed in the city.

Matt Nix, the creator of the new “Baywatch” series, emphasizes its optimistic tone, describing it as a show about heroes supporting each other and protecting their community. The story centers on Hobie Buchannon, Mitch’s son, who discovers he has a sister and together they aim to carry on the Baywatch tradition, with Hobie now in charge as captain. According to Nix, “It’s the right moment for a show that’s openly heroic and focuses on people who genuinely care for those they rescue.”

The auditions weren’t just about finding actors for roles; they demonstrated how much performers are looking forward to working in person again, and they reminded everyone in Hollywood how thrilling it is to discover fresh faces.

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2026-02-22 20:16