Fox has unveiled the first trailer for the reboot of Baywatch, the series that defined nineties television and is now returning with a new generation of lifeguards. The lead actor is Stephen Amell, known for his role as Oliver Queen over eight seasons in Arrow.
The announcement comes at a time when networks are looking back to classic franchises to attract audiences, and Baywatch is one of the most internationally recognized titles in television history. The premiere is scheduled for January 2027.
A trailer that captures the essence of the original series
The three-minute teaser opens with an accident involving a plane and a paraglider that forces the protagonists to perform a high-stakes rescue. The sequence serves as an introduction to the new characters and makes the action-oriented tone of the production clear.
The trailer does not lack the iconic elements of the original series: the slow-motion runs across the sand and the characteristic red swimsuits that turned Baywatch into a global phenomenon.
As the preview suggests, Fox seeks to combine rescue scenes with the personal conflicts of the protagonists, rather than relying solely on nostalgia.
Stephen Amell plays Hobie Buchannon, son of Mitch Buchannon
The main novelty of the reboot is Amell's character. The actor plays Hobie Buchannon, son of the legendary Mitch Buchannon, the role that made David Hasselhoff famous in the original series.
In this new chapter, Hobie serves as the captain of the lifeguard team and bears the responsibility of upholding the family legacy. The plot thickens with the arrival of his daughter, Charlie Vale, played by Jessica Belkin, who is determined to follow in the footsteps of the Buchannons.
Amell has explained that his character is capable of staying calm during the most complicated rescues, but loses that serenity when it comes to dealing with his teenage daughter's night outs. That contrast between action and family comedy will be one of the pillars of the series.
Amell compares his new role to his time on Arrow
In recent statements about the project, Amell acknowledged that trying to replicate the phenomenon of the original Baywatch exactly would be a mistake, as that production belonged to a different television context and its success is difficult to repeat.
The actor did draw a curious parallel between his two best-known roles. As he explained, putting on the red swimsuit to save lives gives him a feeling similar to what he felt when he put on the Green Arrow hood. In both cases, he said, they are characters who constantly risk their lives to save strangers.
Renewed cast with nods to the original series
Alongside Stephen Amell and Jessica Belkin, the reboot incorporates Noah Beck, Shay Mitchell, Thaddeus LaGrone, Livvy Dunne, Hassie Harrison, and Brooks Nader.
Fox has also reserved space for two faces from the original production: Erika Eleniak and David Chokachi will reprise their respective characters, establishing a direct connection between the new series and the one that thrilled millions of viewers in the nineties.
The original Baywatch phenomenon
Between 1991 and 2001, Baywatch aired for eleven seasons and was distributed in more than 200 countries. At its peak, the series is estimated to have reached a weekly audience of over one billion viewers worldwide, a figure that explains why its stars became global icons.
In 2017, the franchise attempted a comeback through cinema with a film starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, framed as a comedy and parody. That project failed to launch a new cinematic era for the brand.
With this reboot, Fox is betting again on the television format, which allows for character development over several episodes and gives more weight to personal relationships within the plot.
Release date and team behind the project
The new Baywatch will premiere in January 2027 on Fox, although the exact day has not yet been confirmed, nor has its distribution in Spain, where it will arrive via Disney+.
The production is handled by Fox Entertainment and Fremantle. Matt Nix, creator of Burn Notice, serves as showrunner and executive producer. Also part of the team are McG, Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, Doug Schwartz, Dante Di Loreto, and Mike Horowitz.
The addition of Nix is relevant due to his experience combining action, charismatic characters, and serialized plots in previous series.
It remains to be seen if Stephen Amell manages to repeat the connection he built with the public during his years as Green Arrow with this new role, this time wearing the iconic red swimsuit of the lifeguards.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Baywatch reboot premiere?
The new Baywatch is scheduled to arrive on Fox in January 2027, although the exact date and details of its distribution in Spain have not yet been confirmed.
Who does Stephen Amell play in Baywatch?
Stephen Amell plays Hobie Buchannon, son of Mitch Buchannon, the character played by David Hasselhoff in the original series.
Where will Baywatch be available to watch in Spain?
According to reports, the series will arrive in Spain via Disney+, although the availability date has not yet been specified.
Who is returning from the original Baywatch?
Erika Eleniak and David Chokachi will reprise their characters from the original series, providing continuity with the production from the nineties.
How many seasons did the original Baywatch have?
The original series aired between 1991 and 2001, accumulating eleven seasons and reaching more than 200 countries.
Who is the showrunner of the new Baywatch?
Matt Nix, creator of Burn Notice, serves as showrunner and executive producer of the reboot.
