Baywatch Reboot Cast Films Beach Scenes Amidst Fan Criticism
The cast of the upcoming Baywatch reboot has defiantly returned to filming, donning the iconic red swimsuits for dramatic beach scenes in Los Angeles on Wednesday. This comes just hours after the show faced harsh criticism from fans who questioned the casting of influencers with limited acting experience.
Stars Showcase Their Beach Bodies
Model Brooks Nader, 29, made a striking appearance on set, showcasing her figure in the signature red swimwear while wearing UGG boots upon arrival. She was joined by influencer-turned-actor Noah Beck, 24, who displayed his chiselled abs during a shirtless running scene along the shore.
The ensemble also included Pretty Little Liars actress Shay Mitchell, 38, and Yellowstone star Hassie Harrison, 35. Together, they filmed action sequences running from the lifeguard tower toward the ocean, with Mitchell looking particularly athletic in a skimpy one-piece suit while carrying a red float.
Additional cast members present included Jessica Belkin, 23, and Stephen Amell, 44, as they all worked on the sandy beach, following in the footsteps of original series icons David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson.
Vocal Fan Backlash Emerges
The filming occurred against a backdrop of significant online criticism directed at the reboot. When Fox announced the "reimagined" series in September with a 12-episode order for the 2026-2027 season, many fans expressed skepticism.
The casting of social media stars like Livvy Dunne and Brooks Nader—better known for their Instagram followings than acting credentials—has been particularly controversial. First-look photos and clips released on Wednesday prompted immediate negative reactions from viewers.
One critic questioned the very premise, posting, "Who the hell thought a Baywatch reboot was a good idea?" Another predicted failure, writing, "This has FLOP written all over it. Why on earth is this even being considered? Hollywood is so out of ideas."
Many comments referenced the disappointing 2017 Baywatch film starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, with one user stating, "Watch it be cancelled after one season. Ain't nobody watching this."
Influencer-Heavy Cast Draws Scrutiny
The reliance on influencers rather than traditional actors has been a focal point of criticism. One fan remarked, "I really can’t stress how bad this script must be to cast so many influencers." Another added, "Hollywood doesn’t believe in hiring actual actors or actresses anymore."
Specific concerns were raised about Dunne, a gymnast with no prior acting experience, with one comment asking, "It's gonna flop—you have a gymnast with no tested acting abilities?" Additionally, the lack of diversity in the cast has been noted, with one critic pointing out, "Not one Black woman on the whole cast. CHOP!!"
Cast Remains Enthusiastic Despite Criticism
Despite the vocal backlash, the cast appears undeterred and enthusiastic about the project. On Tuesday, Nader posted a selfie wearing the famous swimsuit with the caption, "Can’t wait for you all to see what we’re working on! #Baywatch2026."
Nader will portray Selene, a sharp-tongued captain of the Zuma Beach lifeguards. Dunne, making her acting debut, will play Grace, an eager and enthusiastic lifeguard. Her transition from social media influencer to actress has generated mixed reactions from fans.
Plot Details and Character Roles
The reboot's plot centers on Hobie Buchannon, originally played by Jeremy Jackson and now portrayed by Stephen Amell, who steps into the role of Baywatch captain. His life is disrupted when his daughter Charlie arrives, wanting to follow in his footsteps as a lifeguard.
David Chokachi reprises his original role as Cody Madison, who now runs "The Shoreline," the unofficial Baywatch bar and grill, and occasionally still performs rescues in red trunks. Shay Mitchell plays Trina, a former lawyer who left her career to become a full-time lifeguard, while Hassie Harrison portrays Nat, a former foster child turned Olympic athlete.
Network Executives Express Confidence
In a statement to Variety, Michael Thorn, President of Fox Television Network, expressed optimism about the reboot. He said, "In its first run, Baywatch defined an entire era of beach life and elevated lifeguards to iconic status. Now, with our partners at Fremantle, this television juggernaut is set for a modern-day comeback."
Thorn added, "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."
As filming continues in Los Angeles, the cast and crew are pushing forward with production, seemingly brushing off the criticism as they work to revive the iconic series for contemporary audiences.
