Baywatch is but the latest iconic ’90s television series to get a modern-day reboot, this time for the Fox network. (What’s next, Cop Rock?) The original syndicated show about hot lifeguards gave a career rebirth to David Hasselhoff, and made icons out of stars Pamela Anderson and Carmen Electra. And Fox is certainly hoping lightning strikes twice. According to a report coming from Variety, the new Baywatch series is holding an open casting call. Not just main characters, but also supporting roles, walk-ons, and everything in between. But if you’re going to audition, the producers have a mandate: dress appropriately.
According to the Fox casting call, potential performers should arrive “Baywatch”-ready, wearing a “wardrobe that evokes a beach setting.” However, they made it a point to say applicants must be “polished, professional, and avoid overly revealing styles and costumes.” So, if you’re thinking of trying to land a role, don’t get in a red bikini or Speedo. Even if you have a beach-ready bod. The casting call will take place in Southern California (of course), at the Marina Del Rey Marriott. Registration is open at baywatchcastingcall.com, for those who think they’re the next Pamela Anderson or Jason Momoa. Yes, it’s true, the former Aquaman/future Lobo got his start on Baywatch of all things.
The original Baywatch was the unlikeliest of hits. It premiered on NBC in 1989, but it only lasted one season due to poor ratings. But star David Hasselhoff saw the show’s untapped potential and helped revive it for first-run syndication. It was in syndication that the series became a tremendous success, especially internationally. Overseas, it successfully sold the idea of American coastal beach living to viewers. We live in a very different TV ecosystem now, so who knows if Baywatch can really catch fire the same way again. It will hopefully perform better than the 2017 Baywatch comedy movie starring the Rock and Zac Efron that you probably already forgot existed.