The world of sports and entertainment is colliding on the sunny shores of Venice Beach, and Olivia 'Livvy' Dunne is riding the wave. The former LSU gymnastics superstar and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model is officially trading her leotard for a lifeguard's whistle, landing a key role in FOX's upcoming reboot of the iconic series Baywatch.
From Tiger Stadium to the Baywatch Tower
Dunne, who captivated millions with her athletic prowess and social media presence, is set to play Grace, a highly enthusiastic junior lifeguard. This marks a significant leap from the balance beam to the broadcast screen, proving her star power extends far beyond the gymnasium. The news, first reported by Deadline, confirms Dunne's expanding footprint in the public eye as she builds a multifaceted career.
The reboot's storyline centers on Stephen Amell (Arrow) as Baywatch Captain Hobie Buchannon, a wild-child following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Mitch. His world gets upended when his daughter Charlie, played by Jessica Belkin, arrives eager to continue the family's lifeguarding legacy. It's into this dynamic that Dunne's character, Grace, will dive.
A Star-Studded Cast Hits the Beach
Dunne won't be the only familiar face making a splash. The ensemble cast is packed with notable names, including fellow Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Brooks Nader. Nader, who graced the magazine's cover in 2023 and later appeared on Dancing with the Stars, joins a lineup featuring Noah Beck, Hassie Harrison, Shay Mitchell, and Thaddeus LaGrone. The casting promises a fresh, modern take on the sun-soaked drama that once defined television.
Dunne has already given fans a sneak peek into her new venture, sharing behind-the-scenes moments that have sent her massive following into a frenzy. A recent photo of her in a red swimsuit, script in hand, hinted at the role, while another snapshot from the iconic Baywatch Lifeguard Headquarters in Venice Beach confirmed the production is in full swing. Her social media posts consistently demonstrate her ability to command attention, whether she's supporting her boyfriend, Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, or stealing the spotlight at a World Baseball Classic semifinal.
Carrying the Torch for an Iconic Franchise
The original Baywatch, famous for its slow-motion runs and dramatic rescues, became a global phenomenon. The reboot, slated for the 2026-2027 season on FOX, carries the weight of that legacy. All eyes will be on Dunne and Nader as they transition from modeling and sports into acting, tasked with bringing new life to a beloved property. Their performances will be a major point of interest as the series develops.
Dunne's journey from a celebrated NCAA champion at LSU to a burgeoning entertainment figure mirrors a trend of athletes successfully crossing over into new arenas. While the path isn't without its challenges—as seen in the tumultuous careers of some sports legends—Dunne's disciplined background and media savvy position her well for this next chapter.
The announcement adds another layer to Dunne's growing brand, which seamlessly blends athletics, fashion, and now television. As production continues, fans can expect more teasers from the set as Dunne prepares to make her mark on Hollywood, proving that her talents are as versatile as they are captivating.
