Alright, listen up, Baywatch fanatics and pop culture enthusiasts! If you grew up in the ’90s, chances are you spent countless hours glued to the screen, watching those iconic red-swimsuited lifeguards sprint across the sun-drenched beaches of Los Angeles County (and later, Hawaii). Baywatch wasn’t just a TV show; it was a phenomenon, a cultural touchstone that blended drama, action, and steamy romance into a package that captivated audiences worldwide.
Believe it or not, this global sensation almost didn’t make it past its first season on NBC! But thanks to its revival through syndication, Baywatch went on to become the most-watched television series in the world, pulling in a staggering 1.1 billion viewers weekly at its peak. The show’s innovative slow-motion running scenes and its rotating cast of attractive actors quickly cemented its place in television history, even if critical reviews weren’t always glowing.
So, what happened after these stars hung up their red swimsuits? In an article like this, the idea of ranking by “wealth” can be a bit tricky, especially when we’re sticking strictly to the information we’ve got. Since we don’t have actual financial figures, we’re going to dive into what truly matters in the long run: their enduring career success, the variety of their professional paths, and their continued presence in the public eye. Let’s take a look at the impressive journeys of 15 of Baywatch’s most memorable stars, from their time saving lives on screen to where they are today, celebrating the diverse ways they’ve built their legacies.
1. David Hasselhoff as Mitch Buchannon (1989 — 2000)
When you think of Baywatch, one name instantly comes to mind: David Hasselhoff. Affectionately known as “the Hoff,” he was already a household name before he even donned the iconic red trunks, having made his mark as medical student Snapper Foster on *The Young and the Restless* from 1973 to 1982. His star power truly exploded in the ’80s when he took on the enigmatic role of Michael Knight in the immensely popular *Knight Rider*, which ran from 1982 to 1986.
As Mitch Buchannon, Hasselhoff appeared in more episodes of *Baywatch* than any other actor, totaling an incredible 206, including the pilot. His commitment to the series was so profound that he was even given the title of executive producer for his instrumental work in bringing the show back to life after its initial cancellation. He was the anchor of *Baywatch*, embodying the unwavering spirit of the lifeguard team for over a decade.
But “the Hoff” didn’t stop there! His ubiquity in the ’80s and ’90s made him a true pop culture icon, not just for his acting. He bravely embarked on a musical career, releasing multiple albums that found significant success, particularly internationally. He even made his Broadway debut in the *Jekyll & Hyde* musical in 2000, showcasing his diverse talents beyond the beach.
In the years since *Baywatch*, Hasselhoff has remained a television staple, continually reinventing himself. He served as a judge on *America’s Got Talent*, competed on *Dancing With the Stars*, and delighted audiences with guest appearances as himself in beloved shows like *Just Shoot Me!*, *Young Sheldon*, and *The Goldbergs*. On the big screen, he has appeared in numerous films, often playing satirical versions of himself or characters that playfully nod to his *Baywatch* persona, such as in *Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story*, *Click*, *Piranha 3DD*, and multiple *Sharknado* movies. He notably appeared in *The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie* displaying superhuman swimming abilities and running across a beach in slow-motion, all while distinctly playing himself in lifeguard attire. Today, at 71, David Hasselhoff continues to be a prominent figure in entertainment, a testament to his enduring appeal and the legendary status he achieved during and after his *Baywatch* days.
2. Pamela Anderson as C.J. Parker (1992 — 1997)
When you conjure an image of *Baywatch*, Pamela Anderson’s busty, blonde presence is almost certainly at the forefront of your mind. She joined the cast in the third season and quickly became the show’s most iconic star, defining an era of pop culture with her portrayal of C.J. Parker. Her influence was so widespread that she even became the subject of obsession for the character Borat Sagdiyev in the 2006 mockumentary film *Borat*, who believed the series was a documentary.
Before she ever patrolled the sands of Malibu, Anderson got her big break in 1989, gaining instant attention at a football game while wearing a Labatt’s Beer t-shirt. This led to appearances in ads for the beer, and soon after, she achieved notoriety as a Playboy cover girl and Playmate, ultimately gracing more covers of the magazine than any other woman in its history. In 1991, she also joined the cast of *Home Improvement*, showcasing her comedic timing before her dramatic turn on the beach.
After leaving *Baywatch* in 1997, Anderson continued to be a highly recognizable figure in entertainment. She starred in her own shows, *V.I.P.* and *Stacked*, and made memorable guest appearances in popular series like *The Nanny*, *Just Shoot Me!*, and *8 Simple Rules*. Her filmography includes roles in movies such as *Scary Movie 3*, *Superhero Movie*, and *Blonde and Blonder*, allowing her to explore different genres.
Now 56, Pamela Anderson remains firmly in the spotlight, not just as an actress but as a vocal animal rights activist and an all-around enduring pop culture icon. Her career has diversified, encompassing her role as an author, and she continues to engage with and influence public discourse. Her journey post-*Baywatch* is a vivid example of how a singular role can launch a multifaceted and enduring public career.
3. Alexandra Paul as Stephanie Holden (1992 — 1997)
Alexandra Paul brought a sense of strength and intelligence to the *Baywatch* team as Stephanie Holden, joining the cast in 1992 and remaining a significant presence until 1997. Her character’s iconic red swimsuit was notably custom-fitted with a higher neckline, distinguishing her look. Paul’s connection to the show’s legacy is so strong that she even reprised her role as Stephanie in a deleted scene of the 2006 film *Borat*, demonstrating her lasting association with the series.
Before her stint as a *Baywatch* beauty, Paul had already established herself in the acting world. She worked as a model and showcased her talents in feature films like the Stephen King adaptation *Christine* and the crime thriller *8 Million Ways to Die*. These early roles set the stage for her entry into one of the most-watched shows globally.
Following her departure from the lifeguard towers, Alexandra Paul continued to build an impressive and prolific career. She joined the cast of *Melrose Place* for its seventh season, diving into another iconic ’90s drama. However, she became particularly renowned as a star of Lifetime movies, having appeared in a remarkable 15 of the channel’s productions since 1999, solidifying her status as a familiar and beloved face in made-for-television films.
Today, at 60, Paul remains active in the acting world, continually taking on new roles. Beyond her acting work, she has long been a passionate activist, dedicating her efforts to animal rights and various political causes. She also channels her commitment to well-being into her work as a wellness coach, showcasing a diverse set of interests and contributions outside of Hollywood. Her career reflects a thoughtful balance of entertainment, advocacy, and personal development.
4. Gregory Alan Williams as Officer Garner Ellerbee (1989 — 1998)
Gregory Alan Williams was a quiet but constant force on *Baywatch*, playing LAPD Officer Garner Ellerbee from the show’s debut in 1989 all the way through 1998. He was a staple of the cast, providing a crucial link between the lifeguards and law enforcement, often involved in the more serious plotlines beyond the immediate beach rescues. His character was an integral part of the show’s structure for nearly its entire original run.
Before his extended tenure on *Baywatch*, Williams had a distinguished background, having served in the United States Marine Corps. This experience likely informed the grounded and authoritative presence he brought to his roles. His feature film debut came in 1988, opposite Steven Seagal, in the action film *Above the Law*, which marked his entry into the entertainment industry on a larger scale.
Since *Baywatch* concluded, Gregory Alan Williams has demonstrated remarkable consistency and versatility in his acting career, continuing to work steadily across television and film. He has graced the small screen with roles in critically acclaimed series such as *The Sopranos*, *The West Wing*, and *Chicago Med*, showcasing his ability to adapt to diverse dramatic environments. On the film front, he has appeared in memorable movies like *Remember the Titans* and *Old School*, proving his range in both powerful dramas and comedies.
Now 67, Williams shows no signs of slowing down. He can currently be seen in the satirical comedy series *The Righteous Gemstones*, keeping his acting chops sharp and his presence felt on contemporary television. Beyond acting, he has also expanded his creative endeavors, having written four books and directed four feature films, which highlights his deep and multifaceted involvement in the entertainment world. His journey is a testament to sustained artistic output and a broadening of creative horizons.
5. Parker Stevenson as Craig Pomeroy (1989 — 1999)
Parker Stevenson brought a seasoned presence to *Baywatch* as Craig Pomeroy, one of the original cast members who debuted with the show in 1989. While he initially departed after the first season, such was his connection to the series that he made a welcome return in seasons eight and nine, a testament to his lasting impact and the dynamic nature of the *Baywatch* ensemble. Interestingly, Stevenson had experience with lifeguard roles even before *Baywatch*, having starred in the 1976 lifeguard film *Lifeguard*.
Stevenson was already a recognizable face to many viewers before he joined the iconic lifeguard drama. In the 1970s, he rose to fame playing Frank Hardy in the popular *Hardy Boys* TV series, capturing the hearts of a generation. His film credits also include roles in movies such as *A Separate Peace* and *Stroker Ace*, showcasing his versatility across different projects leading up to his *Baywatch* days.
In the years following his *Baywatch* stints, Parker Stevenson continued to work consistently in television, making appearances in various popular series. He landed roles in shows like *Judging Amy*, *Bull*, and even another iconic ’90s staple, *Melrose Place*. These roles allowed him to demonstrate his acting prowess across different genres and maintain a steady presence on the small screen.
Now 71, Stevenson remains active in the entertainment industry. He most recently starred in the popular Netflix series *Greenhouse Academy*, proving his enduring appeal to new generations of viewers. Beyond his acting, Stevenson has cultivated another passion, establishing himself as a talented photographer. His career demonstrates a steady, multifaceted approach to creative work, blending his long-standing acting career with an artistic pursuit.
6. Nicole Eggert as Summer Quinn (1992 — 1994)
Nicole Eggert joined the *Baywatch* cast as Summer Quinn in season three, quickly becoming a fan favorite for her portrayal of the aspiring lifeguard. Her two-year tenure on the show, from 1992 to 1994, solidified her place in the *Baywatch* pantheon and cemented her image as a prominent figure of 90s television. She was part of the wave of new talent that helped propel the show to its international syndication success.
Eggert’s career began much earlier, as a child actress, giving her a significant amount of on-screen experience before *Baywatch*. In 1985, she appeared in *Who’s the Boss?*, playing a friend of Alyssa Milano’s character, showcasing her early start in comedy. She truly became a teen icon beginning in 1987, when she starred in the popular sitcom *Charles in Charge*, which ran until 1990, just before she joined the *Baywatch* team.
After leaving the sun-drenched beaches of *Baywatch* in 1994, Eggert continued to pursue acting, appearing in a variety of TV movies throughout the late ’90s and early 2000s. She also made guest appearances in several well-loved television shows of the era, including *Married… With Children*, *Boy Meets World*, and *Gilmore Girls*, demonstrating her ability to move between different types of programming and maintain her visibility.
Today, at 51, Nicole Eggert’s professional path has evolved. While she hasn’t acted since 2019, she has channeled her creativity and experiences into a new endeavor: hosting a podcast. This shift highlights a modern approach to staying connected with an audience and exploring new forms of media. Her journey from child star to teen idol to *Baywatch* legend, and now to a podcast host, showcases a dynamic career arc.
7. Erika Eleniak as Shauni McClain (1989 — 1992)
Erika Eleniak was one of the original *Baywatch* beauties, joining the cast in its very first season in 1989 as Shauni McClain. Her three-year stint on the show established her as a key figure in the early years of the series, portraying a character who was integral to the drama and romance unfolding on the California beaches. Her striking presence was also recognized beyond *Baywatch*, as she was Playboy’s Miss July in 1989, the same year the show premiered.
Eleniak’s acting career started long before she donned the red swimsuit. As a pre-teen, she had a bit part in Steven Spielberg’s iconic film *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*, a truly memorable early credit. Prior to her time on *Baywatch*, she also made appearances in popular sitcoms like *Silver Spoons* and *Charles in Charge*, building a foundation in television and comedy before transitioning to the dramatic action of the lifeguard series.
After leaving *Baywatch* in 1992, Eleniak aimed for a film career, securing roles in notable movies such as the action thriller *Under Siege* and the comedy *The Beverly Hillbillies*. While she continued to act, her later filmography largely consisted of a variety of low-budget movies in recent years, keeping her active in the industry but on a different trajectory than some of her former castmates.
Now 54, Erika Eleniak has embraced new roles both on and off screen. She currently works as an acting teacher, sharing her extensive experience and knowledge with aspiring performers. Furthermore, she is pursuing an education in spirituality, indicating a personal journey of growth and exploration beyond the demands of Hollywood. Her career path illustrates a shift from mainstream fame to a more focused, personal, and educational approach to life and work.
