Sky acquires UK and Ireland rights for 'Baywatch'

Baywatch is preparing to make waves in the UK and Ireland after the Comcast-owned broadcaster Sky secured the rights to the series.

The beach-set drama, slated to premiere in 2027, will be viewable on Sky and its streaming service, Now, following a deal with the distributor Fremantle.

The programme, a joint production between Fox Entertainment and Fremantle, features Stephen Amell (“Arrow”) as the lead character Hobie Buchannon, alongside Jessica Belkin (“Dutton Ranch”) as Charlie Vale, Shay Mitchell (“Pretty Little Liars”) as Trina, Hassie Harrison (“Yellowstone”) as Nat, Noah Beck (“Sidelined”) as Luke, and newcomers Thaddeus LaGrone and Brooks Nader as Brad and Selene.

They will be joined by original cast members David Chokachi and Erika Eleniak, who will reprise their roles as Cody Madison and Shauni McClain (Eleniak in a guest role). Livvy Dunne joins the cast as Grace.

The reboot has been initially commissioned for 12 episodes and will see a fresh group of lifeguards wear the classic red swimsuits as they monitor Southern California’s renowned beaches. A press statement promises “high‑stakes rescues, explosive drama, and lots of beachside excitement.”

The original “Baywatch,” which aired for 11 seasons and catapulted its cast members, including David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson, to fame, first broadcast in 1989 before concluding 25 years ago.

At its peak, it became the world's most-watched television show, drawing over a billion viewers weekly across 200 countries.

“‘Baywatch’ is among the most iconic TV series of all time, and this ambitious new envisioning will deliver the sun, surf, and high-stakes drama that audiences cherish, while introducing an energetic new cast for a fresh generation of fans,” mentioned Lucy Criddle, Sky’s director of acquisitions.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Fremantle and are very excited to bring the series exclusively to Sky viewers in the UK and Ireland.”

Jamie Lynn, Fremantle’s Executive Vice President for co-production and distribution in EMEA, stated: “‘Baywatch’ is one of the most iconic and globally famous television brands, and the buzz surrounding the series highlights its lasting appeal. It feels instantly recognisable while being made for today, offering something for both loyal and new viewers. It brings the sun-drenched drama and signature vibe people adore, on an even more impressive scale. We’re delighted to collaborate with Sky to present it to audiences in the U.K. and Ireland; their reach and dedication to premium entertainment make them the ideal home for the show.”