Baywatch Original Star Is Filming the Revival — And Her Sweet Message Makes It Even Better

Fox’s upcoming Baywatch revival is headed to Venice Beach with a mix of new cast members and returning original stars, setting up a modern update of the iconic lifeguard drama for its 2027 premiere. David Chokachi has already been announced as returning to the franchise as Cody Madison, and he will not be the only familiar face back on the sand. Kelly Packard, who appeared in Seasons 8 and 9 of the original series as April Giminski, has confirmed that she is returning for the revival and recently shared behind-the-scenes photos from the set on Instagram. Her post included images from Venice Beach, where filming is taking place, as well as a shot with fellow Baywatch alumni Chokachi and Michael Bergin, who is reprising his role as Jack “J.D.” Darius. Packard said it felt good to be back on set and reflected on how incredible it is that three decades have passed since her original run on the show. The reunion has added to the excitement surrounding the reboot, especially for longtime fans of the series.

Packard’s return makes sense within the story being built for the revival. The new Baywatch centers on Captain Hobie Buchannon, played by Stephen Amell, the son of David Hasselhoff’s Mitch Buchannon from the original series. According to the report, Hobie’s rookie class included both April and J.D., which explains how the characters fit into the new version of the beach rescue team. In addition to Packard, Chokachi, and Bergin, Erika Eleniak is also returning to the franchise as Shauni McClain, another classic Baywatch character from the early seasons. The presence of several original cast members suggests the revival will lean into nostalgia while introducing a new generation of lifeguards.

First footage from the Baywatch revival has already been released, and it reportedly delivers plenty of the elements fans would expect: surf, sun, red swimsuits, beach running, and the unmistakable visual style that made the original series famous. Stephen Amell responded enthusiastically to the teaser, underscoring the strong interest surrounding the show’s return. Alongside the legacy cast, the revival will feature a broad mix of performers, including veteran actors, influencers, and reality stars. The cast includes Jessica Belkin, Thaddeus LaGrone, Hassie Harrison, Brooks Nader, Noah Beck, Shay Mitchell, Livvy Dunne, Ashley Moore, Kylar Miranda, Luke Eisner, Nadia Gray, Charlie McElveen, and Mary McDonnell in recurring roles.

Although Fox has not yet announced a specific premiere date beyond 2027, the revival is clearly shaping up as a major nostalgic event for fans of the original series. With classic Baywatch stars returning and a new cast ready to take over the shoreline, the reboot aims to blend familiar beachside action with a fresh look for a new audience.