Stephen Amell to Star in Baywatch Reboot with Original Cast Member

Amell will play Hobie Buchannon, son of David Hasselhoff's character, in the 12-episode Fox series.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 4:31am

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Stephen Amell has been cast as the lead in Fox's upcoming reboot of the iconic 1990s TV series Baywatch. The new 12-episode series will also feature the return of David Chokachi, who is reprising his role as Cody Madison from the original show. Filming is set to begin this spring, with Matt Nix as the showrunner and McG directing the first episode.

Why it matters

Baywatch was a hugely popular series during its original run from 1989 to 2001, and the reboot represents an opportunity to revive the beloved franchise for a new generation of viewers. Bringing back a familiar face like Chokachi's Cody Madison is a strategic move to appeal to longtime fans of the show.

The details

The new Baywatch series will feature Amell in the lead role of Hobie Buchannon, the son of David Hasselhoff's character Mitch Buchannon from the original show. Chokachi will be reprising his role as Cody Madison, one of the original lifeguards. The 12-episode season is set to debut during the 2026-2027 network television season on Fox.

  • Filming for the Baywatch reboot is scheduled to begin this spring.
  • The 12-episode series is set to debut during the 2026-2027 network television season.

The players

Stephen Amell

Canadian actor known for his lead role in the superhero TV series Arrow.

David Chokachi

American actor who played Cody Madison in the original Baywatch series.

Matt Nix

American television writer and producer serving as the showrunner for the Baywatch reboot.

McG

American film director and producer who will direct the first episode of the Baywatch reboot.

David Hasselhoff

American actor who played the lead role of Mitch Buchannon in the original Baywatch series.

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What they’re saying

“I'm thrilled to be part of bringing Baywatch back to life. The original series was iconic, and I can't wait to see what we can do with it in this new iteration.”

— Stephen Amell

“It's going to be great to slip back into the Cody Madison role and reconnect with the Baywatch universe. The fans have been asking for this for years.”

— David Chokachi

What’s next

Casting for the remaining roles in the Baywatch reboot is expected to be announced in the coming months as production gears up to begin filming this spring.

The takeaway

The Baywatch reboot represents an opportunity to revive a beloved 90s TV franchise and capitalize on nostalgia, while also appealing to a new generation of viewers. Bringing back a familiar face like David Chokachi's Cody Madison is a strategic move to appease longtime fans of the show.