A sunny January: “Baywatch” returns

In early January — when many Americans are encased in snow and sorrow — the beach babes will return.
The beach hunks will, too. The “Baywatch” reboot starts Jan. 6 on Fox.
The network has long been obsessing on the show. At the “upfronts” in May, when networks promote their new seasons, Fox had no new series coming in the fall; instead, it focused on “Baywatch” and showed that the new cast of young (and fit) actors (shown here). It’s also run promos during football games and more.
Now the debut has been set for 9 p.m. on a Wednesday. So far, Fox hasn’t announced its usual plan of airing the first episode right after a football game.
The original “Baywatch” began with serious intentions: It was co-created by Gregory Bonann, who was (and continued to be) a Los Angeles lifeguard.
NBC aired it for a year (1989-90), then dropped it. “Baywatch” went on to a decade of non-network syndication, reportedly becoming the world’s most-watched show
Despite earnest intentions, it drew the strongest attention for its attractive lifeguards, played by Pamela Anderson, Susan Anton, Jason Momoa, Yasmine Bleeth, Carmen Electra, David Chokachi, Brooke Burns and more.
David Hasselhoff starred as Lt. Mitch Buchannon. In the new version, we’re told that his son Hobie (played by Stephen Amell of “Arrow”) is the captain. Hobie’s daughter shows up, determined to follow the family career path.
Bonann will again be one of the producers, along with McG — known for “The O.C.” “Supernatural” and two “Charlie’s Angels” movies — and more. Matt Nix (“Burn Notice”) will be the showrunner.
Chokachi will return in his old role as Cody Madison. Mostly, however, this will be a showcase for newer actors, all of whom (like Amell and Chokachi) look good in swimwear.