Michael Newman, known for his role as the authentic lifeguard Mike "Newmie" Newman on the iconic '90s television series Baywatch, has passed away at the age of 68.

A Lifeguard On and Off the Screen​

Born in Los Angeles, Newman's rise to fame was as unique as it was fitting. Unlike his co-stars, Newman brought real-life heroism to the set of Baywatch, having served as an actual lifeguard prior to his acting career.

His authenticity shone through in his portrayal of “Newmie,” earning him a special place in the hearts of viewers and making him a staple of the show across its 12-year run, from 1989 to 2001.


With 150 episodes under his belt, Newman was a constant presence on the show, second only to the series lead, David Hasselhoff.

Baywatch became a cultural phenomenon, following the thrilling and often dramatic lives of a group of lifeguards patrolling the beaches of Los Angeles. Newman's character worked alongside memorable figures played by Pamela Anderson, Nicole Eggert, Yasmine Bleeth, and Jeremy Jackson, among others.

The show's blend of action, romance, and sun-soaked escapades made it a global hit, with Newman's genuine lifeguarding experience adding a touch of realism to the otherwise glamorous depiction of beachside life.

A Hero's Battle with Parkinson's Disease​

Newman's diagnosis of Parkinson's disease at the age of 50 marked the beginning of a challenging journey.

He openly shared his experiences with the condition in a docuseries that explored the lives of Baywatch cast members after the show.

Viewers learned of his daily struggles, including the side effects of taking 10 medications a day, which often left him feeling “jittery.”

Despite his personal battles, Newman dedicated much of his time to raising funds for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, a leading organization in Parkinson's research, in the hopes of finding a cure.

His commitment to this cause reflected the same selflessness he displayed as a lifeguard and firefighter.

A Life of Service and Dedication​

Newman's dedication to public service extended beyond the beaches of Baywatch. He also served as a full-time firefighter, a testament to his unwavering commitment to helping others.

Balancing his responsibilities at the firehouse with his filming schedule, Newman continued to save lives off-screen, embodying the heroism he portrayed on television.

After the series concluded, he remained a firefighter for another 25 years before retiring.

His brief return to the character of “Newmie” in the spinoff series Baywatch Nights in 1995 was a nod to the enduring legacy of his role on the original show.

A Family Man Remembered​

His death on Sunday was confirmed by his director and friend, who shared that Newman had been battling heart complications, alongside Parkinson’s disease.

Newman's life was not only marked by his public persona but also by his deep devotion to his family.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sarah, his grown children Chris and Emily, and his 1-year-old granddaughter, Charlie.

His family's love and support were a source of strength throughout his life and during his battle with Parkinson's.

Remembering Michael Newman​

As we reflect on the life of Michael Newman, we remember a man who was not only a beloved television star but also a real-life hero.

His legacy is one of bravery, both in the face of danger and against the relentless progression of Parkinson's disease.

Newman's contributions to entertainment, public service, and the Parkinson's community will not be forgotten.



Whether as fans of Baywatch, admirers of his public service, or supporters of his fight against Parkinson's, let us honor Michael Newman’s memory by celebrating the life he lived and the countless lives he touched.

Together, we can keep the spirit of “Newmie” alive in our hearts and continue to draw inspiration from his remarkable journey.