Livvy Dunne has provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the filming of the Baywatch reboot, following her landmark casting in the highly anticipated series. The former LSU gymnastics star, aged 23, has secured her first significant acting role in this reimagined version of the iconic 1990s television show.
Behind the Scenes on the Malibu Set
The social media influencer has already commenced shooting alongside an impressive ensemble cast in Malibu. Her co-stars include Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Brooks Nader, alongside established actresses Hassie Harrison, Shay Mitchell, and Jessica Belkin, as well as TikTok personality Noah Beck.
Dunne delighted her followers by sharing candid snaps from what she described as the 'best set in the world' via her Instagram story. In one relaxed beachside moment, she wore a petrol blue athleisure co-ord set, sitting cross-legged on the sand with her head propped in her hands. The picturesque Pacific Ocean formed a stunning backdrop, with the setting sun casting a warm, golden glow across the entire scene.
Cast Connections and Iconic Imagery
In another shared photograph, Dunne posed for a cheerful selfie with castmates Shay Mitchell and Hassie Harrison, thoughtfully tagging both in her post. Mitchell, renowned for her role in Pretty Little Liars, beamed with her arms raised high, sporting a white crew-neck sweater subtly featuring the Baywatch logo in the show's signature red colour.
Meanwhile, Harrison offered a tantalising preview of Baywatch's legendary crimson swimsuit, which peeked out from beneath her white tank top. These behind-the-scenes moments provide early excitement for fans eagerly awaiting the series' debut.
Transition from Gymnastics to Acting
Dunne officially concluded her celebrated gymnastics career last year after completing her fifth and final season with the LSU Tigers, thereby creating space to explore new professional avenues. She has been cast in a recurring role as a junior lifeguard in the Baywatch reboot, marking her inaugural venture into the film and television industry.
In a recent interview, Dunne expressed her enthusiasm for this career shift, stating, 'It's something I've been passionate about for quite some time. I was interested in doing that at LSU, but sports are your top priority when you're a student-athlete at school. And now that I'm done with school, I have more time to lean into the acting stuff and the creative side of things.'
Juggling Professional and Personal Commitments
Balancing her filming responsibilities with her personal life has presented increasing challenges in recent weeks, particularly with the commencement of the MLB season. Dunne is in a relationship with Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes and makes a dedicated effort to attend nearly all of his starting games.
Her supportive presence for the reigning NL Cy Young winner necessitates frequent cross-country travel to accommodate her packed schedule. Remarkably, within just the past week, Dunne has managed to watch Skenes pitch on two separate occasions, filmed scenes for Baywatch, and even attended the Coachella festival in California to enjoy Justin Bieber's headline performance.
A Packed Schedule Documented
Dunne humorously outlined her hectic timetable in a recent TikTok video, detailing: 'Wake up, watch MLB boyfriend pitch. Jet to LA. Film an episode of Baywatch. Surprise trip to Palm Springs. Attends Bieberchella. Attends Justin and Hailey's afterparty. No sleep. Back to Pittsburgh still a little drunk. Watches MLB boyfriend strike out 400th person. Jets back to LA with best friend. Film another episode of Baywatch. Bieberchella all over again.'
Series Revival and Casting Reactions
Fox officially announced the Baywatch reboot in September, confirming a 12-episode order for the 2026-2027 television season. The new narrative will follow Hobie Buchannon, originally portrayed by Jeremy Jackson, as he assumes the role of Baywatch captain, succeeding his legendary father Mitch Buchannon, famously played by David Hasselhoff. He will be joined by a fresh generation of lifeguards tasked with patrolling the Los Angeles coastline.
The casting decisions generated considerable discussion, with some expressing surprise at the inclusion of social media personalities like Dunne and Nader within the lifeguard team—individuals better known for their substantial Instagram followings than their acting experience. Despite this initial backlash, the cast appears fully committed to embracing this unique opportunity.
Reflecting on her new path, Dunne shared, 'Whether it's gymnastics or acting in a movie or a TV show, I just think watching all your hard work pay off, whether it's an individual thing or a group thing, I think it's so cool.' Her journey from elite athletics to television promises to be one of the most intriguing transitions in recent entertainment history.
