Livvy Dunne Offers Behind-the-Scenes Look at Baywatch Reboot Filming in Malibu
Livvy Dunne, the 23-year-old former LSU gymnast, has shared an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse of the highly-anticipated Baywatch reboot filming, after landing a recurring role as a junior lifeguard. This marks Dunne's official acting debut, transitioning from her celebrated gymnastics career to the entertainment industry.
Star-Studded Cast and On-Set Moments
Dunne is part of a standout ensemble of recruits for the remake of the iconic 1990s television series. The cast includes fellow Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Brooks Nader, actresses Hassie Harrison, Shay Mitchell, and Jessica Belkin, along with TikTok personality Noah Beck. While filming on location in Malibu, Dunne posed for a stunning selfie with co-star Hassie Harrison, best known for her role in the hit series Yellowstone.
In the captivating snap, both Dunne and Harrison are donning the famous red Baywatch swimsuits, with Dunne winking and holding up a peace-sign gesture. Dunne captioned the image "Baewatch" when she posted it to her Instagram story, generating significant buzz among her followers and fans of the franchise.
Promotional Activities and Fan Reactions
Earlier this week, Dunne was seen frolicking on the sand alongside her famous castmates during promotional photo shoots. The group posed in red swimwear, showcasing their chiseled physiques while reenacting classic Baywatch shots, smoldering for the cameras in their sultry outfits. Dunne also shared a promotional photo with co-star Noah Beck, further building anticipation for the series.
Despite the cast embracing the opportunity, the reboot has faced vocal criticism from some quarters. When casting choices were first revealed, many expressed surprise at the inclusion of social media stars like Dunne and Nader, who are better known for their Instagram followings than their acting credentials. Initial fan reactions to first-look photos and clips released on Wednesday were mixed, with some critics dismissing the project as a derivative idea with influencers in lead roles and a plot destined for failure.
Dunne's Transition to Acting and Production Details
In a recent interview, Dunne revealed her excitement about carving out an acting career. "It's something I've been passionate about for quite some time. I was interested in doing that at LSU, but sports are your top priority when you're a student-athlete at school," she explained. "And now that I'm done with school, I have more time to lean into the acting stuff and the creative side of things."
Dunne emphasized the parallels between her athletic and artistic pursuits, stating, "Whether it's gymnastics or acting in a movie or a TV show, I just think watching all your hard work pay off, whether it's an individual thing or a group thing, I think it's so cool."
The new Baywatch series, announced by Fox in September with a 12-episode order for the 2026-2027 season, follows Hobie Buchannon (originally played by Jeremy Jackson) as he steps into the role of Baywatch captain. He follows in the footsteps of his legendary father Mitch Buchannon (originally portrayed by David Hasselhoff), joined by a new generation of lifeguards patrolling the Los Angeles coastline.
Training and Cast Dynamics
Dunne and Nader were recently photographed undergoing "ocean training" at Venice Beach ahead of filming, according to reports from Page Six. The beautiful duo were seen mastering their slow-motion running into the water and are apparently working with trained lifeguards to master techniques for their roles.
A source close to the production commented on the chemistry between Dunne and Nader, who know each other from previous Sports Illustrated shoots. "They're really excited to be working together. They're having so much fun and bringing that Sports Illustrated energy straight to Baywatch Beach," the source was quoted as saying.
The cast has brushed off criticism of the reboot after shooting their dramatic beach scenes on Wednesday, focusing instead on the creative process and their preparation for the series. As filming continues in Malibu, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how this modern interpretation of a television classic unfolds.
