Baywatch Reboot Secures Filming in Los Angeles with Tax Credit

Fox's upcoming reboot of the iconic series "Baywatch" will film in the Los Angeles area, specifically utilizing the historic Venice Lifeguard Operations Station as a primary backdrop. The California Film Commission awarded the project a substantial $21.1 million tax credit, amounting to 40% of the production costs. This financial incentive was crucial in ensuring that the reboot remained in California, as there were considerations to relocate filming to Australia if the tax credit had not been secured. The reboot, which received a 12-episode straight-to-series order in September for a premiere during the 2026-27 season, aims to capture the essence of the original series, which aired for 11 seasons from 1989 to 2001.

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The decision to film in Los Angeles is expected to generate hundreds of union jobs for cast and crew, significantly benefiting local businesses, vendors, and the hospitality sector in Venice. Mayor Karen Bass, alongside local officials, will hold a press conference at the Venice Beach Lifeguard Operations Station to highlight the economic activity anticipated from the series. State Assemblymember Rick Zbur emphasized the importance of the tax credit program in maintaining California's competitive edge in the entertainment industry, stating, “This is exactly what we envisioned when we strengthened the program — keeping our creative economy strong.”

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Wade, a representative from Fox Entertainment, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the California Film Commission and local officials, noting the importance of keeping a production so closely tied to Los Angeles. He remarked, “It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside our partners... to create an economically sustainable path for keeping a production like Baywatch right here in Los Angeles.”

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While the collaboration between government and entertainment has been praised, some critics argue that reliance on tax credits can lead to an uneven playing field for smaller productions that may not have the same negotiating power. Concerns have also been raised about the long-term sustainability of such incentives in the face of changing economic conditions.

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• “It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside our partners at the California Film Commission to create an economically sustainable path for keeping a production like Baywatch – so spectacularly tied to this great city and state – right here in Los Angeles,” — Wade, Fox Entertainment

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• “This is exactly what we envisioned when we strengthened the program — keeping our creative economy strong and our entertainment industry competitive,” — State Assemblymember Rick Zbur

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The reboot of "Baywatch," produced by Matt Nix and Fremantle, aims to blend the original's thrilling rescues and beachside drama with contemporary themes and challenges, all while showcasing the California coastline to a global audience.

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