Erika Eleniak, best known for playing Shauni on the original Baywatch, says the hit series was far more difficult to film than its sunny, glamorous image suggested. As Fox prepares to revive Baywatch for the 2026-2027 TV season, Eleniak reflected on the realities of shooting beach scenes in the show’s iconic red swimsuits, describing the experience as physically demanding and often uncomfortable.
In an interview with Rewind Magazine, Eleniak said viewers only saw the polished fantasy of Baywatch, not the harsh conditions behind the scenes. She pointed to wind, cold water, sand, currents, exhaustion, and the challenge of pretending to be hot while actually freezing during takes. She also recalled having to be sprayed with water to create the appearance of sweat, even when the real conditions were far from warm. According to Eleniak, the beach setting created constant discomfort that made the production more difficult than many people would expect.
The actress also said landing the role of Shauni was a long and exhausting process. She described going through multiple rounds of auditions, including meetings with casting teams, producers, directors, and the network. She said the show tested chemistry between actors before making final decisions, and that the process involved about six auditions in total. Eleniak’s comments highlight how competitive and time-consuming casting was for one of television’s most recognizable 1990s roles.
Her remarks come as interest builds around Fox’s upcoming Baywatch reboot, which is expected to bring the lifeguard drama back to television after years away. The new series is set to follow Hobie Buchanon, the son of Mitch Buchanon, as he continues the family legacy on the beaches of California. The story also introduces Charlie, Hobie’s daughter, played by Jessica Belkin, adding a new generation to the franchise.
The revival has already drawn attention because it includes Stephen Amell and other new cast members, while also bringing back familiar faces from the original series. Kelly Packard has reportedly filmed scenes for the reboot and has said she has no complaints about the new version so far. That has fueled curiosity about how the updated show will balance nostalgia with a modern take on the franchise.
Eleniak’s reflections also echo comments from other former Baywatch stars, including Carmen Electra, who has spoken about the importance of staying in shape for the show’s swimming and beach sequences. With Baywatch returning to Fox in January 2027, the reboot is aiming to recapture the appeal of the original while introducing new characters and storylines for a new audience.
Although Baywatch became famous for its glamorous image, Eleniak’s comments serve as a reminder that the reality behind the scenes was often cold, exhausting, and physically demanding.
