Lebanese Actress to Replace Pamela Anderson in Baywatch Reboot | News & Updates

A new face will be joining the lifeguards on Fox’s upcoming Baywatch reboot. Lebanese-American actress Yara Khoury has been cast in a leading role, filling a spot initially intended for Pamela Anderson, according to reports from Music Nation and MTV Lebanon.

Anderson had previously expressed reservations about reprising her iconic role as C.J. Parker for the reboot, reportedly turning down an initial offer from producers. However, a revised proposal ultimately brought her back into the fold, though it appears Khoury will now be taking on a significant role within the new cast. The exact nature of Khoury’s character remains unconfirmed.

The Baywatch Legacy and the Reboot’s Trajectory

Baywatch, which originally aired from 1989 to 2001, became a global phenomenon, launching the careers of David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, and numerous other actors. The series, known for its slow-motion running scenes and dramatic ocean rescues, captured the zeitgeist of the 1990s. A feature film adaptation was released in 2017, starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, with Anderson making a cameo appearance. Deadline reported in 2023 that Freemantle was developing a new version of the series.

This latest reboot is slated to launch on Fox as part of the 2026-27 season. The series aims to recapture the spirit of the original while introducing a fresh cast and storylines. Stephen Amell (known for his role as Oliver Queen in Arrow) will play Hobie Buchannon, the son of David Hasselhoff’s Mitch Buchannon, now a Baywatch Captain. Jessica Belkin will portray Charlie Vale, Hobie’s newly discovered daughter. Brooks Nader, a model, is set to play Selene, the Captain of the Zuma Beach lifeguards. David Chokachi will reprise his role as Cody Madison, owner of the Baywatch bar-and-grill.

Yara Khoury: A Rising Star

While details surrounding Yara Khoury’s casting are still emerging, her involvement signals a commitment to diversifying the Baywatch cast. Khoury’s background and previous work are currently limited in English-language media, suggesting this role could be a significant breakthrough for the actress. Further information about her career and experience is not readily available through mainstream entertainment news sources at this time.

Why This Reboot Matters

The decision to revisit Baywatch speaks to the enduring appeal of the franchise and the potential for nostalgia-driven content. In an era of reboots and revivals, Baywatch offers a recognizable brand with a built-in audience. However, the reboot also faces the challenge of updating the series for a modern audience, addressing potential criticisms regarding its portrayal of gender roles and cultural sensitivities. The casting of Yara Khoury could be seen as a step towards a more inclusive and representative Baywatch.

Production and Release Timeline

With a planned launch on Fox for the 2026-27 season, production on the Baywatch reboot is expected to ramp up in the coming months. The series will likely follow a traditional television production schedule, including casting, scriptwriting, filming, and post-production. The exact release date within the 2026-27 season remains to be determined. The success of the reboot will depend on its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation, appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.

As production progresses, further details regarding the plot, characters, and supporting cast are expected to be revealed. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and announcements through official Fox press releases and entertainment news outlets.