The upcoming Baywatch reboot is continuing to build buzz as Fox adds another high-profile name to its cast — this time from the world of social media. Livvy Dunne, the former LSU gymnast turned internet sensation, has officially joined the upcoming series, marking her professional acting debut.
Dunne will appear in a recurring role as Grace, a lively and enthusiastic junior lifeguard in the new version of the iconic beachside drama.
From Gymnastics Star to Hollywood Newcomer
Livvy Dunne first gained fame as a competitive gymnast at Louisiana State University, while simultaneously building one of the largest online followings among athletes. With around 13 million followers across social platforms, Dunne has become one of the most recognizable names in sports influencer culture.
She retired from competitive gymnastics in April 2025, later revealing that she had begun taking acting classes and planned to pursue opportunities in television and film. Landing a role in Fox’s Baywatch revival now marks the first major step in that new career direction.
‘Baywatch’ Reboot Leans Into Influencer Power
The upcoming reboot — sometimes jokingly referred to as “Baywatch 2.0” by fans — is assembling a cast that blends traditional actors with social media personalities.
Dunne joins several other stars with large online followings, including Noah Beck, who boasts around 41 million followers, as well as Shay Mitchell, who has 35 million followers across platforms. Model Brooks Nader is also part of the main cast lineup.
The show is scheduled to premiere during Fox’s 2026–2027 television season.
Stephen Amell Leads the New Lifeguard Squad
The series will be led by Stephen Amell, who plays Hobie Buchannon, now serving as a Baywatch captain and following in the footsteps of his legendary father Mitch Buchannon, the character made famous in the original show.
The story takes a dramatic turn when Hobie’s daughter Charlie, played by Jessica Belkin, unexpectedly appears and expresses her desire to continue the Buchannon family legacy as a lifeguard.
The reboot also features Hassie Harrison, Thaddeus LaGrone, and a nostalgic return from David Chokachi, who reprises his original Baywatch role as Cody Madison.
Behind the Scenes of the New Series
The new version of Baywatch is being produced by Fox Entertainment in collaboration with Fremantle. The project is being led by showrunner Matt Nix, who also serves as an executive producer.
Other executive producers include Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, Doug Schwartz, Dante Di Loreto, Mike Horowitz, and McG, who will also direct the premiere episode.
Fox Entertainment Global will manage domestic rights for the series, while Fremantle will handle international distribution.
Final Words
With a mix of nostalgia, fresh characters, and a cast packed with both actors and social media personalities, Fox’s Baywatch reboot is clearly aiming to appeal to a new generation of viewers. Livvy Dunne’s casting adds another layer of modern pop culture appeal to the series as she transitions from sports and influencer fame into acting.
If the show captures even a fraction of the cultural impact of the original Baywatch, the reboot could become one of the most talked-about television launches of the 2026–27 season, according to Deadline.
