Fox Brings Back Baywatch with a New Reboot for 2026
Fox has officially given the green light to a
Baywatch reboot, reviving the iconic lifeguard drama for the
2026–2027 television season. Nearly three decades after the original series became a global cultural phenomenon, the franchise is returning with a modernized and grittier approach to life on Southern California’s beaches.
A New Generation of Baywatch
The reboot, developed by
original creator Michael Berk, will introduce a fresh cast of characters tasked with saving lives while navigating personal struggles. Fox Entertainment and Fremantle are co-producing the project, which begins with a
12-episode order.
The show’s logline teases a mix of action, drama, and personal storytelling: “
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.”
From Lighthearted Action to Authentic Drama
Unlike its predecessor, which leaned on campy action and sun-soaked fun, the new Baywatch aims for a
more realistic and dramatic tone. The updated version plans to tackle contemporary issues such as mental health, diversity, and the challenges of balancing duty with personal lives—all while retaining the thrilling ocean rescues that made the original famous.
Fox and Fremantle’s Vision
Michael Thorn, President of Fox Television Network, highlighted the cultural impact of Baywatch in its original run, saying:
“In its first run, Baywatch defined an entire era of beach life and elevated lifeguards to an iconic status. Now, with our partners at Fremantle, this television juggernaut is set for a modern-day comeback. Together, Fox and Fremantle, along with Matt Nix and original co-creator Greg Bonann, will bring the California dream to a whole new generation of fans with fresh stories, rising stars, and all the spectacle that make the Baywatch franchise a global sensation.”
A Major Television Comeback
The return of Baywatch underscores the continued appetite for reimagined classics. With its bold new direction and commitment to authentic storytelling, the 2026 reboot is poised to capture both nostalgic fans and new viewers, marking one of television’s most anticipated revivals of the decade.
