Baywatch Actor Michael Newman Dies at 68 After Long Battle with Parkinson’s Disease

Michael Newman, the beloved actor known for his role as lifeguard Mike “Newmie” Newman on the popular 1990s TV series ‘Baywatch,’ has passed away at the age of 68. Newman died on Sunday, October 20, due to heart complications, surrounded by his family and friends.

Newman was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2006 and had been living with the condition for 18 years. Despite his health challenges, he remained active in raising awareness and funds for Parkinson’s research, particularly through his work with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. In recent interviews, Newman shared his experiences with the disease, highlighting the impact it had on his life and his determination to cherish every moment with his loved ones.

A native of Los Angeles, Newman rose to fame in the 1990s as a mainstay on ‘Baywatch,’ appearing in 150 episodes of the show, more than any other cast member except David Hasselhoff. What set him apart was his real-life experience as a lifeguard and his concurrent career as a full-time firefighter, a role he maintained for 25 years until his retirement.

Newman’s legacy extends beyond his acting career. He was remembered by his close friend and director Matt Felker, who directed the Hulu docuseries ‘After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun,’ where Newman shared his personal story and struggles with Parkinson’s. Felker recalled Newman’s last conscious moments, describing his characteristic humor and resilience.

Newman is survived by his wife, Sarah, whom he married 36 years ago, their two grown children, Chris and Emily, and their 1-year-old granddaughter, Charlie. Before his diagnosis, the couple had planned to retire in Hawaii, where they had built their dream home near the filming location of the ‘Baywatch’ spinoff ‘Baywatch: Hawaii’.