“Baywatch” is set to make a splash in the U.K. and Ireland after Comcast-owned broadcaster Sky snapped up the rights to the show.
The beach-set drama, which is due to launch in 2027, will be available on Sky and its companion streaming platform Now after the broadcaster struck a deal with distributor Fremantle.
The show, a co-pro between Fox Entertainment and Fremantle, stars Stephen Amell (“Arrow”) as lead Hobie Buchannon alongside Jessica Belkin (“Dutton Ranch”) as Charlie Vale, Shay Mitchell (“Pretty Little Liars”) as Trina, Hassie Harrison (“Yellowstone”) as Nat, Noah Beck (“Sidelined”) as Luke and newcomers Thaddeus LaGrone and Brooks Nader as Brad and Selene.
They’ll be joined by original cast members David Chokachi and Erika Eleniak, who will reprise their roles as Cody Madison and Shauni McClain (Eleniak as a guest star). Livvy Dunne joins as Grace.
The reboot has initially been commissioned for 12 episodes and will see a new group of lifeguards don the iconic red swimsuits as they patrol Southern California’s famous shoreline. A press release for the acquisition promises “high‑stakes rescues, explosive drama and plenty of beachside heat.”
The original “Baywatch,” which ran for 11 seasons and made stars out of its cast including David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson, first aired in 1989 before it was sunset 25 years ago.
At its peak it became the world’s most-watched show with over a billion viewers every week across 200 countries.
“‘Baywatch’ is one of the most iconic television franchises of all time, and this bold new reimagining will deliver the sun, sea and high-stakes drama audiences know and love, while introducing a dynamic new cast for a new generation of fans,” said Lucy Criddle, Sky’s director of acquisitions. “We’re thrilled to partner with Fremantle and couldn’t be more excited to bring the series exclusively to Sky audiences across the U.K. and Ireland.”
Fremantle’s EVP for co-production and distribution in EMEA, Jamie Lynn, added: “‘Baywatch’ is one of the most iconic and globally recognised brands in television, and the excitement surrounding the series reflects its enduring appeal. It has an instantly familiar feel while still being made for today’s audiences, offering something for both loyal and new fans. It delivers the sun-soaked drama and signature energy people love, on an even bigger scale. We’re delighted to partner with Sky to bring it to audiences in the U.K. and Ireland; their reach and commitment to premium entertainment make them the perfect home for the series.”
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