Stephen Amell Cast as Lead in Fox’s Baywatch Reboot

Stephen Amell has been cast in the lead role for Fox's upcoming Baywatch reboot, marking the first major casting announcement for the series. The actor, known for his work on the CW's Arrow and more recently on Starz's Heels, will headline the new version of the iconic lifeguard drama that Fox picked up for its 2026-2027 television season.

The network ordered 12 episodes of the series back in September 2025, signaling a significant commitment to bringing the classic 1990s show back to television. Amell's involvement represents a major step forward in the production, as the show moves from development into its casting phase.

Background

Baywatch originally aired on NBC from 1989 to 1999, becoming one of the most watched television series in the world during its run. The show followed a team of lifeguards working on Southern California beaches, blending action, drama, and rescue storylines that captured audiences across the globe. The original series spawned a spin-off called Baywatch Nights and remained popular through syndication for years after its conclusion.

The property has seen various attempts at revival in recent years. A feature film adaptation was released in 2017 starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, which took a comedic approach to the material. That film's mixed critical reception did not stop studios from exploring other versions of the concept.

Fox's decision to develop a new Baywatch series for broadcast television suggests the network believes there is still audience interest in the lifeguard premise. The choice to go with a 12-episode order indicates Fox is treating this as a significant project for the upcoming season.

Key Details

Amell brings substantial television experience to the role. His time on Arrow, which ran for eight seasons on the CW, established him as a lead actor capable of carrying an action-heavy series. More recently, his role on Heels demonstrated his range in dramatic material. The actor has also appeared in films and other television projects throughout his career.

The Casting Process

Fox has announced plans to hold an open casting call for additional roles in the Baywatch reboot. This approach allows the network to discover new talent while also potentially attracting established actors interested in joining the cast. Open casting calls have become increasingly common for major television productions, giving aspiring performers a direct opportunity to audition.

"The network is moving forward with confidence in this project," a production insider noted regarding the casting announcements.

The decision to cast Amell first suggests the producers had a specific vision for the lead character and wanted to secure that role before proceeding with other casting decisions.

What This Means

Amell's casting signals that Fox intends to treat Baywatch as a serious dramatic series rather than a parody or comedy. His track record in action-oriented drama suggests the network may be aiming for a tone that balances the adventure and rescue elements of the original show with contemporary storytelling.

The production timeline remains on track for the 2026-2027 broadcast season, which means filming will need to begin in the coming months. With the lead actor now in place and open casting calls scheduled, the production is moving into high gear.

For Amell, the role represents a return to leading a broadcast network series. After spending years on cable networks, a major Fox series could significantly raise his profile and introduce him to a broader audience. The actor has expressed interest in diverse roles throughout his career, and Baywatch offers an opportunity to tackle a character in a well-known property.

The reboot will face the challenge of honoring the original show's legacy while making the concept relevant to modern audiences. How the production balances nostalgia with fresh storytelling will likely determine whether the series finds success with viewers. The choice of Amell and the network's investment in the project suggest Fox is betting on a version that respects the source material while moving the concept forward.