Stephen Amell has been cast in the lead role of Fox's upcoming 'Baywatch' reboot, marking the first confirmed casting for the series. The show received a 12-episode order for the 2026-2027 broadcast season in September 2025, with production set to begin this spring in Los Angeles. Fox will also hold an open casting call on February 18.
Amell will portray Hobie Buchannon, described as the 'wild child we all loved from the original series' who is now a Baywatch captain following in the footsteps of his father, Mitch. The character's world is turned upside down when his daughter Charlie arrives, eager to continue the family legacy as a lifeguard.
The role keeps Amell in the broadcast television sphere, following his lead role in the short-lived 'Suits LA' spinoff. He is best known for playing Oliver Queen in the CW's 'Arrow' for eight seasons, as well as appearing across multiple DC superhero shows. His recent credits include the Starz drama 'Heels' and the films 'Code 8 Parts 1 & 2'.
Showrunner Matt Nix praised Amell, saying he brought 'heart, intensity, and that undeniable hero energy' to the role. Nix executive produces alongside McG, Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, Doug Schwartz, Dante Di Loreto, and Mike Horowitz, with McG directing the premiere. The series is co-produced by Fox Entertainment and Fremantle.
The original 'Baywatch' debuted in 1989 on NBC, later moving to syndication for 11 seasons and nearly 250 episodes. At its peak, it was the most-watched show globally, airing in over 200 countries. The cast included David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, and Jason Momoa, among others. A film reboot starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron was released in 2017.
