More than 2,000 hopefuls clad in red swimsuits braved chilly weather to audition for Fox’s reboot of the classic TV series “Baywatch” during an open casting call Wednesday at Marina del Rey’s Mothers Beach.
The event, organized by the production company, sought actors to fill roles in the action-drama series set against the backdrop of Venice Beach, echoing the original show’s focus on lifeguards tackling crime and personal drama along the California coast. Applicants were required to register online in advance, confirming they were at least 18 years old and authorized to work in the United States.
Due to overwhelming interest, the casting call reached full capacity, with organizers notifying participants that not all could be seen in person but that submitted headshots and applications would still be reviewed. Among the crowd were diverse aspirants, including a crime prevention specialist from Monterey County who drove five hours for the opportunity.
Videos from the scene captured participants performing slow-motion beach runs and posing as lifeguards, reminiscent of the show’s signature style. Original “Baywatch” cast member David Chokachi, who played Cody Madison, was spotted at the event, along with actor Stephen Amell, reportedly cast as an adult version of Hobie Buchannon.
The reboot, announced last year, aims to revive the franchise that ran from 1989 to 2001 and spawned a 2017 film starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron. Production is expected to begin later this year, with no premiere date yet set.
