In Memory of Mike Newman: The Heart of Baywatch

During the making of After Baywatch, director Matthew Felker and I had the privilege of becoming close friends with Michael "Newmie" Newman. Mike was the only real-life lifeguard among the cast, bringing an unmatched authenticity to his role. Beyond acting, he was a dedicated firefighter and a passionate surfer who fully embraced the Hawaiian lifestyle. He even built his dream home by hand on the North Shore, a testament to his deep love for the ocean and the community. Matthew and I spent countless hours with Mike—surfing, paddling, and sharing stories—forming a bond that extended far beyond the screen. One of our most memorable experiences was capturing the spirit of the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, a testament to Mike's deep connection with Hawaii’s surf culture. His warmth, wisdom, and infectious energy left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Sadly, Mike passed away just a month after the series was released, following his battle with Parkinson’s disease. This video serves as a tribute to his legacy, his invaluable contributions to After Baywatch, and the unforgettable bond we shared. It was screened at his funeral in Malibu, where hundreds of his closest friends and family gathered to celebrate his life. Having had the privilege of documenting so much of Mike’s final years, we created this piece as a way for them to remember and honor him. Music composed by Live Footage Brooklyn Watch the full series of After Baywatch: A Moment in the Sun now streaming on Hulu and Disney Plus. #hulu #MikeNewman #Baywatch #LifeguardLegend #ParkinsonsAwareness #Hawaii #EddieAikau #BigWaveSurfing #Waterman #OceanHero #GoneButNotForgotten #AfterBaywatch #Tribute #SurfingLife #LifeguardLife #afterbaywatch #pamelaanderson #davidhasselhoff #michaeljfoxfoundation #michaeljfox #parkinsons #parkinsonsdisease #lifeguard #baywatch #northshorelifeguards