Baywatch is set to return to screens as a reboot of the iconic 90s show has been given the greenlight.

A new version will air for 12 episodes on Fox in the 2026-27 television season and will be produced by Fox Entertainment and Fremantle. 

The show, which ran from 1989 to 2001, followed the lives of a group of life guards who patrol the beaches in Los Angeles.

It starred David Hasselhoff in the lead role of Mitch Buchanan and also made a star out of Pamela Anderson who played C.J. Parker.

Although it consistently received negative reviews from critics, Baywatch was a hit with viewers and became the most-watched TV show in the world during its run. 

For its final two years on air, the show was retitled Baywatch: Hawaii, with future movie star Jason Mamoa joining the cast.  

In a statement to Variety, Michael Thorn, President of Fox Television Network, said: 'In its first run, Baywatch defined an entire era of beach life and elevated lifeguards to an iconic status. Now, with our partners at Fremantle, this television juggernaut is set for a modern-day comeback.

'Together, Fox and Fremantle, along with Matt Nix and original co-creator Greg Bonann, will bring the California dream to a whole new generation of fans with fresh stories, rising stars and all the spectacle that make the Baywatch franchise a global sensation.'  

Christian Vesper, CEO of global drama for Fremantle, added: 'Baywatch has always been a treasured asset in Fremantle's portfolio and remains one of the most iconic series in television history globally. We have found the perfect partners in Fox to help us maintain this legacy.

'With Matt Nix at the helm, we are in great hands, as he excels at telling engaging and entertaining stories. Our goal is to reconnect with existing fans while also introducing a new generation to the world of these famous lifeguards. 

At its peak, Baywatch was watched by 1.1 billion viewers in over 200 countries. 

The show was revived as a feature film in 2017 starring Dwayne Johnson, Zac Efron and Priyanka Chopra. 

In a 2019 interview with The New York Times, Pamela Anderson revealed she still owns the iconic red swimsuit she wore on the show.