Baywatch Reboot Casts Newcomer Through Open Casting Call

Writer acknowledges fan skepticism but says the process uncovered genuine talent.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The upcoming Baywatch reboot series recently held an open casting call that drew thousands of hopefuls, leading some fans to believe it was just a publicity stunt. However, one of the show's writers, Bradley Marques, has shared a photo of one of the new cast members, Hanna Balicki, who was discovered through the open casting process. Marques acknowledged the skepticism but insisted the open call was a legitimate way for the producers to find fresh talent for the series.

Why it matters

The original Baywatch series famously launched the careers of several unknown actors, like Pamela Anderson and Jason Momoa. The reboot's open casting call suggests the producers are similarly looking to uncover new talent, rather than just relying on established stars. This approach could help bring a fresh energy to the iconic franchise.

The details

The open casting call for the Baywatch reboot drew over 14,000 submissions, with 2,000 actors, models, and 'wannabes' invited to audition in person at the Marina del Rey Marriott. The attendees included a diverse group, from a mother-daughter duo with no acting experience to an influencer unfamiliar with the original series. While the series will feature some well-known actors like Arrow's Stephen Amell, the producers are also searching for series regulars, lifeguards, barflies, and extras.

  • The open casting call was launched in February 2026 and has already concluded.

The players

Bradley Marques

A writer for the Baywatch reboot series.

Hanna Balicki

A talented actress who was cast in the Baywatch reboot through the open casting call.

Stephen Amell

An actor known for his role in Arrow, who is playing the new Baywatch captain.

Brooks Nader

A Sports Illustrated model who will be playing the Captain of the rival Zuma Beach lifeguards.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Meet [Hanna Balicki] - a talented actor who got on Baywatch through the open casting call. I understand it's easy to think is was just a publicity stunt - but it was not. There was talent in that pool. And we see them.”

— Bradley Marques, Baywatch Reboot Writer

“This whole thing is not normal.”

— Stephen Amell

What’s next

The new Baywatch series is expected to premiere on Fox in the near future, though an exact release date has not been announced.

The takeaway

The Baywatch reboot's open casting call demonstrates the producers' commitment to finding fresh talent, rather than relying solely on established stars. This approach mirrors the original series, which helped launch the careers of several unknown actors, and could bring a renewed energy to the iconic franchise.