From David Hasselhoff to Erika Eleniak: A glimpse into lives of 'Baywatch' Season 1 cast members as beloved series gears up for reboot
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Fox has sealed the deal for a reboot of the classic series 'Baywatch', securing a script and penalty agreement with Fremantle.
Lara Olsen, known for her work on 'Spinning Out,' steps in as the showrunner for this modern take on the iconic beach saga originally crafted by Michael Berk, Douglas Schwartz, and Gregory J. Bonann.
The show, made famous by David Hasselhoff, first aired from 1989 to 1999, later evolving into 'Baywatch: Hawaii' from 1999 to 2001.
Olsen, Berk, Bonann, and Schwartz will serve as executive producers for this one-hour drama, a collaboration between Fremantle and Fox Entertainment.
The revamped synopsis reads "Daring ocean rescues, pristine beaches, and iconic red bathing suits are back, along with a whole new generation of Baywatch lifeguards, who navigate complicated, messy personal lives in this action-packed reboot that demonstrates there’s the family you’re born into and the family you find."
The reboot aims to capture the essence of the original, emphasizing the theme of finding family amidst adrenaline-pumping action. No stranger to the lifeguard scene, Fox previously aired the TV reunion movie 'Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding' back in 2003.
It's uncertain whether Pamela Anderson, Hasselhoff, or any of the series regulars will make a comeback to the franchise in any capacity. However, if you're wondering where the show's OG cast members are now, we've got you covered!
David Hasselhoff as Mitch Buchanan (1989 — 2000)
David Hasselhoff, affectionately known as "the Hoff," was already a household name prior to his stint on 'Baywatch'.
His rise to fame began with a significant role on the soap opera 'The Young and the Restless', where he portrayed medical student Snapper Foster from 1973 to 1982. However, it was his portrayal of Michael Knight in the hit series 'Knight Rider' from 1982 to 1986 that truly solidified his status as a star of the '80s.
As Mitch Buchanan on 'Baywatch', Hasselhoff appeared in more episodes than any other actor and even headlined the spinoff series 'Baywatch Nights'. His pervasive presence in '80s and '90s culture cemented him as a pop culture icon.
Yet, Hasselhoff's talents weren't confined to acting; he also ventured into music, releasing multiple albums. In 2000, he made his Broadway debut in the musical adaptation of 'Jekyll & Hyde'.
At 71 years old, David Hasselhoff remains a fixture on television.
His versatility extends beyond acting, as he has served as a judge on 'America’s Got Talent', showcased his dance moves on 'Dancing With the Stars', and made notable appearances as himself on shows like 'Just Shoot Me!', 'Young Sheldon', and 'The Goldbergs'.
Transitioning to the silver screen, Hasselhoff has made several appearances, often playing himself, in movies such as 'Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story', 'The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie', 'Click', 'Piranha 3DD', 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2', and various entries in the 'Sharknado' franchise.
Erika Eleniak as Shauni McClain (1989 — 1992)
Joining 'Baywatch' during its inaugural season, Erika Eleniak embarked on a three-year stint before making a transition to a film career. Post-beach days, she graced the big screen in notable films like 'Under Siege' and 'The Beverly Hillbillies'.
Eleniak's acting journey began with a small role in 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' as a pre-teen, followed by appearances in 'Silver Spoons' and 'Charles in Charge' before landing on the sun-soaked shores of 'Baywatch'.
In 1989, she earned the title of Playboy's Miss July.
Now at 54, Eleniak has explored diverse roles in low-budget movies in recent years. Beyond the screen, she has taken on the role of an acting teacher while concurrently delving into spirituality through ongoing education pursuits.
Billy Warlock as Eddie Kramer (1989 — 1992)
Billy Warlock's journey began with a minor role in the horror sequel 'Halloween II.' In 1982, he entered the realm of 'Happy Days' for its ninth season. Concurrently, during his debut on 'Baywatch,'
Warlock, who gained recognition for his role in the cult-favorite horror movie 'Society', dedicated three seasons to 'Baywatch' and subsequently carved a niche as a prominent soap opera star from the '80s to the '00s.
His credits include recurring roles in 'Days of Our Lives,' 'General Hospital,' 'The Young and the Restless,' 'As The World Turns,' and 'One Life to Live.'
Now at 62, Warlock stepped away from acting in 2011, redirecting his focus to co-manage a children's ski school in Colorado.
Reflecting on his time as a TV lifeguard, Warlock expressed his enjoyment of the show but recognized the need to avoid being typecast as "Billy Baywatch." Sensing career opportunities unfolding, he chose to spread his wings and explore new horizons.
Holly Gagnier as Gina Pomeroy (1989 — 1990)
Holly Gagnier's time on the Southern California beaches in 'Baywatch' spanned just one season.
Before donning the iconic red bathing suit, she had established herself as a seasoned soap opera star, with notable roles on 'One Life to Live' and 'Days Of Our Lives', Post-'Baywatch'.
Gagnier expanded her television repertoire, making appearances on shows like 'Crossing Jordan', 'ER', 'House', 'Scandal', and more.
At 64, Gagnier has shifted gears and now works as an acting coach. In a return to her daytime TV roots, she was most recently spotted on 'General Hospital' in 2022, showcasing her enduring presence in the television landscape.
Gregory Alan Williams as Officer Garner Ellerbee (1989 — 1998)
A constant presence in the Baywatch cast from the show’s inception to 1998, Gregory Alan Williams portrayed LAPD Officer Garner Ellerbee.
Before stepping into acting, Williams served in the United States Marine Corps, marking his feature film debut in the 1988 movie 'Above the Law', alongside Steven Seagal.
Following the conclusion of 'Baywatch', his acting journey continued with roles in acclaimed shows like 'The Sopranos', 'The West Wing', 'Chicago Med', and notable films such as 'Remember the Titans' and 'Old School'.
At 67, Williams remains active on the small screen, currently gracing the satirical comedy series 'The Righteous Gemstones'.
Beyond acting, he has showcased his versatility by writing four books and directing four feature films, showcasing a multifaceted career that extends beyond his iconic Baywatch role.
Parker Stevenson as Craig Pomeroy (1989 — 1999)
Even before joining the 'Baywatch' cast, Parker Stevenson had already made a name for himself.
In the '70s, he gained recognition for his role as Frank Hardy in the 'Hardy Boys' TV series. Stevenson's early career included appearances in films like 'A Separate Peace', 'Lifeguard', and 'Stroker Ace'.
Although Stevenson initially departed 'Baywatch' after the first season, he made a return for seasons eight and nine. His diverse acting portfolio extends to shows such as 'Judging Amy', 'Bull', and 'Melrose Place'.
At 71, Stevenson recently graced the popular Netflix series Greenhouse Academy'. Beyond his on-screen endeavors, he has carved a niche as a photographer, showcasing a multifaceted career.
Stay tuned to MEAWW to get more updates about 'Baywatch' reboot