Scripted

Fremantle has secured a second-window deal with Italian broadcaster Rai 2 for Baywatch, the upcoming action-drama co-produced with FOX Entertainment. The agreement will see the series launch on Rai 2 following its initial exclusive window on Prime Video, adding another major partner to the show’s international distribution line-up ahead of its 2027 debut. The deal further strengthens the global rollout of the reboot, with first-window agreements already in place with Prime Video across Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Benelux, Switzerland, Austria, Turkey, Canada, Latin America and India; Sky in the UK and Ireland; and Stan in Australia.
“Securing a major second-window deal with Rai 2 for Baywatch, even before the series has launched, is a real testament to the strength of the brand and the huge appetite we’re seeing for it internationally,” said Al De Azpiazu, SVP Distribution, French & German Speaking Europe, Italy, Spain & Portugal, International, at Fremantle. “Baywatch is a true MIPCOM showstopper. It’s an iconic brand reimagined for a new generation, with all the scale, energy and entertainment value buyers are looking for. We’re incredibly excited by the response so far and the momentum building around the series.”

The 12-episode series brings back the iconic red swimsuits and follows a new generation of lifeguards patrolling Southern California’s coastline, combining high-stakes rescues, interpersonal drama and beachside action. Stephen Amell leads the cast as Hobie Buchannon, alongside Jessica Belkin as Charlie Vale, Shay Mitchell as Trina, Hassie Harrison as Nat, Thaddeus LaGrone as Brad, Noah Beck as Luke and Brooks Nader as Selene. David Chokachi returns as Cody Madison in a recurring role, with Livvy Dunne joining as Grace. Original cast members Erika Eleniak, Michael Bergin and Kelly Packard will also guest star, reprising their respective roles as Shauni McClain, J.D. Darius and April Giminski.

Originally launched in 1989, Baywatch became one of the world’s most widely distributed television series, airing in more than 200 countries and reaching over one billion viewers per week at its peak. The franchise helped propel stars including Pamela Anderson, Carmen Electra, Jason Momoa and Yasmine Bleeth to international recognition, alongside original leading man David Hasselhoff. The new series aims to build on the franchise’s enduring global appeal while introducing the property to a new generation of viewers. Alongside its signature rescues and beachside heroics, the reboot will explore contemporary relationships, rivalries and challenges facing the lifeguards as they work to protect the Southern California shoreline.

Baywatch will premiere on FOX in January 2027. Matt Nix (Burn Notice, The Gifted) serves as showrunner and executive producer, alongside executive producers McG, Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, Doug Schwartz, Dante Di Loreto and Mike Horowitz. McG (Charlie’s Angels) will direct the premiere episode. FOX Entertainment Global handles domestic distribution, while Fremantle oversees international sales.