Over three decades ago, Baywatch made waves on television screens across America and eventually around the world. With its iconic red swimsuits, dramatic rescues, and sun-drenched beaches, the show quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It wasn’t just the thrilling water rescues or the picturesque setting that kept audiences hooked — it was also the stunning cast that captured hearts week after week.
From its original debut in 1989 through its final season in 2001, Baywatch introduced viewers to a diverse and memorable cast of lifeguards, each with their own storylines, strengths, and beachside drama. Over the years, fans watched these stars grow, change, and mature both on and off-screen. Now, more than 30 years later, many are curious: What happened to the actors and actresses who defined a generation of beach TV drama?
This feature takes a nostalgic look back at the most prominent members of the Baywatch cast. We’ll explore what they looked like then and what they look like today, revealing how their lives have evolved since they last ran in slow motion across the sand.
Let’s dive into the then-and-now journey of the Baywatch stars who made such a lasting impression on pop culture.
Yasmine Bleeth, who portrayed Caroline Holden, was a fan favorite from the moment she appeared on screen. Her strong presence and captivating beauty made her a standout on the show. Born in 1968, Yasmine enjoyed a successful career in modeling and television even before joining the Baywatch cast. After her time on the show, she faced challenges in her personal life, including battles with substance dependency, which she later openly discussed. Now in her early 50s, Yasmine has stepped away from the spotlight, living a more private life. However, her iconic role remains a powerful memory for fans who admired her portrayal of the determined and kind-hearted lifeguard.
Jeremy Jackson took on the role of Hobie Buchannon, the son of lead character Mitch Buchannon, played by David Hasselhoff. Jeremy was just a child when he joined the cast, growing up before the eyes of millions of viewers. His boyish charm and developing maturity gave his character depth as he transitioned from a rebellious teenager to a more grounded young adult. Off-screen, Jeremy faced various legal and personal struggles in his adult years, which he has addressed through rehabilitation and a commitment to fitness. Today, he is in his early 40s and has focused his life on health, recovery, and helping others facing similar challenges.
Erika Eleniak, the actress who brought Shauni McClain to life, was one of the earliest Baywatch stars. She joined the show in the first season and quickly became a breakout star due to her heartfelt performances and striking looks. Born in 1969, Erika was already known for her role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and later posed for Playboy, which increased her fame. After leaving Baywatch, Erika appeared in several films and television shows. Today, she continues to act occasionally and enjoys a quieter life, focusing on family and personal well-being.
David Hasselhoff, the face of Baywatch and the man behind Mitch Buchannon, needs no introduction. His role as the brave and compassionate head lifeguard anchored the show for many seasons. Already a well-known figure due to his work on Knight Rider, Hasselhoff became a global sensation thanks to Baywatch. His career expanded into music, especially in Europe, and he continued acting in various television projects. Despite facing personal challenges, including battles with alcohol and public scrutiny, he remains active in entertainment. Now in his 70s, David Hasselhoff has embraced his status as a pop culture icon, often appearing in nostalgic retrospectives and fan conventions.
Pamela Anderson, who played C.J. Parker, was arguably the most iconic Baywatch star. With her platinum blonde hair and confident demeanor, she became an international symbol of the show’s sexy and glamorous appeal. Born in 1967, Pamela leveraged her role into a powerful brand, continuing to model, act, and later becoming an activist. She has been open about her personal struggles, relationships, and her advocacy work in animal rights and environmental causes. In recent years, Pamela has made headlines for her memoir and documentary, revealing a more introspective and thoughtful side to the woman behind the icon.
Carmen Electra joined the cast in later seasons as Lani McKenzie. Known for her sultry screen presence and energetic performances, Carmen brought new energy to the series during its later years. She went on to enjoy a varied career in modeling, film, and music. Born in 1972, Carmen’s career was bolstered by appearances in comedic films and television guest spots. Today, she remains in the public eye through reality TV appearances and beauty-related ventures. She continues to embrace her place in pop culture history, often reflecting on her time with Baywatch as a defining moment.
Alexandra Paul played Stephanie Holden, a character beloved for her intelligence, strength, and leadership. As one of the more serious and grounded lifeguards, Stephanie served as a role model to viewers. Born in 1963, Alexandra’s career has included a wide variety of acting roles and activist work, particularly in environmental and social causes. After her time on Baywatch, she became a certified health coach and has worked to promote veganism and sustainable living. Her continued activism and commitment to wellness reflect the thoughtful, principled character she portrayed on screen.
Nicole Eggert portrayed Summer Quinn, a lifeguard navigating both the job’s demands and personal growth. Her youthful energy and emotional depth made her a fan favorite during her time on the show. Born in 1972, Nicole previously starred in Charles in Charge and had a long television resume even before Baywatch. After the show, she appeared in reality programs and public discussions about her experiences growing up in Hollywood. In recent years, Nicole has focused on raising her children and working outside the entertainment industry, including starting an ice cream truck business that gained media attention.
David Chokachi joined Baywatch as Cody Madison, a surfer-turned-lifeguard with charm and athletic prowess. Born in 1968, David brought a fresh face and strong presence to the later seasons. After Baywatch, he continued working in television, appearing in various series and made-for-TV movies. Today, David still acts and remains active on social media, connecting with fans and sharing glimpses of his current life. He often expresses gratitude for the opportunity Baywatch gave him and acknowledges how it shaped his career.
Gena Lee Nolin, who portrayed Neely Capshaw, brought complex emotions and character arcs to the series. With her dynamic presence, she stood out as both a heroine and occasional antagonist. Born in 1971, Gena transitioned from modeling to acting through her role on The Price Is Right before landing her breakout part on Baywatch. After the show, she starred in Sheena and later became a health advocate, particularly focusing on thyroid disease awareness. Gena has shared her personal health struggles openly, turning her experience into educational outreach and support for others.
Michael Bergin played J.D. Darius, one of the last major additions to the Baywatch team. Known for his model good looks and athletic build, Michael was already a successful model, often compared to Mark Wahlberg. His time on Baywatch gave him greater fame, and he continued working in fashion and acting afterward. Today, Michael focuses on family life and business ventures. Though largely out of the public spotlight, he occasionally reflects on his time in the series as a formative and exciting chapter in his career.
Traci Bingham portrayed Jordan Tate, one of the first Black actresses to have a central role on the show. Her presence marked a significant step forward in representation. Traci’s vivacious personality and on-screen charisma helped her stand out during her run on the series. After Baywatch, she participated in reality TV shows, talk shows, and continued working as an actress and model. Today, she remains active in public events and continues advocating for diversity in entertainment.
Donna D’Errico took on the role of Donna Marco, a lifeguard who quickly became a fan favorite thanks to her combination of strength and softness. Like some of her co-stars, she also appeared in Playboy before transitioning into acting. After Baywatch, Donna continued acting and became a mother. In recent years, she has gained attention for her fitness and lifestyle content on social media. She embraces aging naturally and often speaks out against ageism, promoting confidence and authenticity at every stage of life.
Jason Momoa, now a Hollywood A-lister, began his career as Jason Ioane in the later seasons of Baywatch: Hawaii. Born in 1979, his role as the rugged, young lifeguard marked his early entry into acting. His success exploded years later with roles in Game of Thrones and as Aquaman in the DC Universe. Despite becoming a global superstar, Jason often credits his early experience on Baywatch as foundational to his career and confidence on camera.
Kelly Packard played April Giminski, a sweet and intelligent lifeguard introduced in the show’s later seasons. With a background in both music and acting, Kelly brought a unique energy to her character. After Baywatch, she appeared in sitcoms like California Dreams and in various television movies. Today, she lives a quieter life, focusing on family, faith, and health. Kelly continues to be remembered fondly by fans for her approachable and endearing presence.
Mitzi Kapture also joined the cast in the final seasons as Alexis Ryker. Known for her prior work on Silk Stalkings, Mitzi brought experience and depth to her role. Since leaving Baywatch, she has continued acting, though she maintains a relatively low public profile. Her commitment to her craft and the subtlety she brought to her character added depth during the show’s final stretch.
These then-and-now transformations of the Baywatch cast reflect not only the passage of time but also the personal journeys that each actor and actress has taken. While their lives have gone in many different directions—some staying in the limelight, others choosing quieter paths—the legacy they created on the beaches of Southern California lives on. Whether through reruns, documentaries, or nostalgic fan pages, Baywatch continues to make waves decades after its original broadcast. And for the fans who grew up watching, those red swimsuits, ocean rescues, and unforgettable faces will always hold a special place in television history.
