AceShowbiz - Filming has officially restarted for Baywatch, the Fox reboot starring Stephen Amell, following an earlier production halt. Known primarily for his role as Oliver Queen in CW’s Arrow, Amell takes on the role of Hobie Buchannan, son of David Hasselhoff’s iconic character, Mitch Buchannan, in this fresh take on the beloved 1990s series.

Amell has a diverse acting portfolio including lead roles in Heels and the short-lived spinoff Suits LA, as well as portraying Casey Jones in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows. Now, he is front and center in this highly anticipated reboot that brings the classic lifeguard drama back to Fox’s primetime lineup.

Production had faced several obstacles, but the City of Los Angeles has actively worked to clear the way for the show to continue filming at Venice Beach. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass revealed on X that her office collaborated closely with City Council member Traci Park to resolve logistical challenges, including improving parking availability and affordability for the crew.

Mayor Bass emphasized the importance of supporting the entertainment industry, stating, “The City of Los Angeles will always clear bureaucratic barriers, making it easier and more affordable to film in the entertainment capital of the world.” This intervention was crucial in securing a $21 million tax credit for Baywatch, which will allow the production to remain in Los Angeles.

Maintaining filming in Los Angeles is especially significant given the show’s setting. Like the original series, this reboot will be shot on location at Venice Beach, as well as Marina del Rey, Redondo Beach, and the Fox lot in Century City. The decision preserves the authentic Southern California coastal atmosphere central to the show’s identity.

The reboot’s storyline expands on the Buchannan family legacy, with Amell’s character Hobie Buchannan now having a biological daughter, Charlie Vale, portrayed by Jessica Belkin. Charlie’s character arrives in Los Angeles from Texas, seeking to follow in her father’s footsteps as a Baywatch lifeguard, adding a fresh generational dynamic to the narrative.

Another notable connection to the original series is the return of David Chokachi, who reprises his role as Cody Madison from seasons six through nine of the original Baywatch. Chokachi is currently the only original cast member confirmed to be part of the reboot, providing continuity for longtime fans.

The ensemble cast also includes Hassie Harrison as Hobie’s close friend Nat, Noah Beck as rookie lifeguard Luke, Shay Mitchell as Trina—a former lawyer turned aspiring lifeguard—Thaddeus LaGrone as Brad, a former marine and lifeguard, Olivia Dunne as Grace, an enthusiastic junior lifeguard, and Brooks Nader as Selene, the Zuma Beach lifeguard captain. Early promotional images have already showcased some cast members in the iconic red swimsuits, signaling a visual homage to the original series.

This new version of Baywatch aims to carve out its own identity distinct from the 2017 feature film adaptation. That movie starred Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Mitch Buchannan, along with Zac Efron, Alexandra Daddario, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Jon Bass, and Kelly Rohrbach as C.J. Parker—the role made famous by Pamela Anderson in the original television series. While the film took a more comedic and action-oriented approach, the reboot looks to blend drama with legacy elements.

Fox plans to premiere Baywatch as part of its 2026-2027 network television schedule. This season already includes returning shows such as Memory of a Killer, Best Medicine, Doc, and Animal Control. Matt Nix, known for creating Burn Notice, serves as the showrunner and executive producer for the reboot, with acclaimed producer and director McG attached to direct the first episode.

The production’s continuation in Los Angeles not only supports the local film industry but also honors the show’s roots. The original Baywatch was famously filmed on the city’s beaches, capturing the sun-soaked, high-stakes world of lifeguards protecting Southern California’s coastline. This reboot promises to bring that same energy and iconic setting back to television screens, with a modern cast and new storylines.

Fans and viewers can expect a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling as the new Baywatch introduces familiar faces alongside new characters navigating personal challenges and heroic rescues. The inclusion of David Chokachi provides a direct link to the past, while Amell and Jessica Belkin lead the next chapter in this enduring franchise.

In summary, the successful resumption of filming for Baywatch marks a significant milestone for the project and the Los Angeles entertainment community. The city’s support, combined with a talented cast and experienced production team, sets the stage for what could be a defining reboot of a classic '90s series. Audiences can look forward to the show’s debut on Fox in the upcoming television season, reigniting the legacy of lifeguards on the iconic California coast.