If you ever wanted to see beach drama play out on the small screen instead of the big one, then there is some good news coming your way. A Baywatch reboot is supposedly in development over at Fremantle, and a number of buyers have already indicated their interest.
This comes via Deadline, with the reboot set to bring back one of the biggest hits in the late ’80s and early ’90s, and made stars of a cast that included David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, David Charvet, Yasmine Bleeth and Nicole Eggert among others. Created by Michael Berk, Douglas Schwartz and Gregory J. Bonann, the show focused on a group of lifeguards that were in charge of LA County beaches, but it was cancelled after only one season by network NBC.
The producers bought the rights back before pushing the show into syndication territory, with success following for 10 more seasons and Baywatch becoming one of the most-watched shows in the world. There was even a spinoff called Baywatch Nights, while on the big screen, there was the two-hour reunion flick, Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding, and the more modern reimagining starring Dwayne Johnson.
As usual, following so many years in the wilderness, the rights to Baywatch is a convoluted affair. It will likely require some time before it is all sorted out and an actual reboot is greenlit and goes full steam ahead. This is also not the first time that a reboot has been talked about, with Fremantle International COO Bob McCourt sharing that there had been discussions back in 2018.
“I think we thought the film might have given us reason to reboot the TV series, but given the mixed reviews that didn’t happen straight away. I think if this remastered version is sold extensively and a new audience comes to Baywatch, then it will give us a real indication as to whether a new series could be successful. We would definitely think seriously about making a new series and maybe we’ll get approached by some broadcasters about making one,” he said.
Jake is a full-time trophy hunter and achievement gatherer on consoles, and part-time Steam Sale victim. He has a thing for Batman and awesome statues, and running out of space for both. Send help.
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