Michael Newman, known for his portrayal of Newmie Newman in the iconic series Baywatch, sadly passed away on October 20, 2024, at the age of 68. In addition to his acting career, Newman also served as a firefighter.
The announcement of Michael’s passing was initially made by his friend and director Matt Felker, who stated that he was surrounded by family and close friends during his final moments. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Matt shared that Michael succumbed to heart complications at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.
Significantly, Michael had been living with Parkinson’s disease since 2006. Matt expressed his sentiments, recounting,:
“I got to see Mike the last time he was conscious, and he looked [at] me and in typical Mike fashion said, ‘You’re just in time.’
Michael’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes across social media, with fans remembering his impressive body of work. Many expressed admiration for his acting abilities and the legacy he created on screen.
Michael Newman played a key role in Baywatch for many seasons
A native of Los Angeles County, California, Newman was best recognized for his role in the action-drama series Baywatch, where he appeared throughout ten seasons. He portrayed Newmie Newman, a senior lifeguard cherished by audiences due to his compelling presence.
Characterized by his tall, muscular frame and distinct mustache, Newmie mirrored Captain Mitchell “Mitch”Buchannon’s stature, one of the lead lifeguards.
As the longest-serving member of the lifeguard team, Newmie was dedicated to rescuing individuals in peril. His character shared a playful rivalry with Mitch, often engaging in double-dates and competing for the affections of women. Newmie made his debut by aiding Mitch and Sean during their recruit training in Hawaii.
Newman’s character became a regular by the seventh season and developed a strong friendship with Cody Madison, reflecting Newman’s real-life experience as a lifeguard. His last appearance as Newmie was in the 22nd episode of Season 10.
Despite receiving mixed critical reviews, Baywatch amassed a dedicated fanbase, leading to a spin-off series and a feature film that premiered in 2017.
Michael Newman’s lifeguard background predates his Baywatch fame
Growing up in Brentwood, Los Angeles, Newman was influenced by his parents, with his father Michael being a member of the British national water polo team and his mother Joan working as a swimming instructor.
Michael joined the swimming teams at Santa Monica City College and UC Santa Barbara, and graduated from Palisades Charter High School. Even as he gained fame on Baywatch, he performed stunts in the water and provided guidance to writers on rescue scenes.
In 2006, at the age of 50, Newman received a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. In a recent interview with People magazine, he shared that he intended to move to Hawaii with his wife, Sarah, prior to his diagnosis; however, those plans were ultimately scrapped, leaving them to remain in Los Angeles.
Michael expressed how he stayed active through activities like swimming and running along the beach, stating:
“I’ve been training for this. Somebody that was 65 and not very athletic, if they got the news that they got Parkinson’s, it wouldn’t turn out as well. I got them all beat, I guess, if we could call it ‘beat.’
In addition to Sarah, Michael is survived by his son Chris, daughter Emily, and granddaughter Charlie.
Related Articles:
Will Characters from Agents of SHIELD Make a Comeback in the MCU?
0:08
Wicked 2’s Key Difference from the Original Film That Might Impact the Sequel’s Success
0:06
Why The Legend Of Zelda Should Nerf Link Despite Potential Drawbacks
0:05
Leave a Reply