Baywatch star Michael Newman has tragically died at the age of 68.
Newman rose to fame in the ’90s after playing a lifeguard on the long-running series, starring alongside Pamela Anderson and Carmen Electra.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by Newman’s close friend, Matt Felker, who revealed the late actor died “from heart complications” on Sunday, October 20, according to PEOPLE.
The 45-year-old, who directed the recent Hulu docuseries After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun, shared that Newman was “surrounded by his family and friends”.
“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,'” Felker revealed to the outlet.
Newman endured an 18-year battle with Parkinson’s disease.
He was first diagnosed at the age of 50 in 2006 and devoted his later years to fundraising for the Michael J Fox Foundation.
In a heartfelt interview with PEOPLE this August, the late actor opened up about his desire to raise awareness about the condition through his own experiences.
“This terminal disease has allowed me a lot of thinking time, which I maybe didn’t want, but it’s brought me wisdom,” he said. “My body has changed so slowly that I hardly notice it, yet I am constantly reminded that Parkinson’s has now become the center of my life.”
Newman revealed he took 10 medications a day and would often wake up “jittery,” adding: “I am cherishing the days that I get to be on this earth with family and friends. I’m taking life seriously.”
He said that his life mantra is, “It’s not a run-through,” and concluded: “All those things that you thought you were going to do with your children and grandchildren, pictures we were going to take, all the plans I had… stopped.”
Newman was the only member of the Baywatch cast who was actually a lifeguard. He was also a firefighter who balanced his on-screen career with his full-time career.
Once the show concluded in 2001, he returned to firefighting before hanging up his helmet 25 years later.
The late star is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sarah, their children Chris and Emily, and their one-year-old granddaughter, Charlie.
Our thoughts are with Newman’s family and friends at this time.
Kim Kardashian Is Accused of Nepotism for Her Daughter’s Hollywood Debut
Kim Kardashian’s daughter has recently come under scrutiny amid accusations of nepotism after being cast in a significant role. Critics argue that her selection was driven more by her famous family name than by her talent or experience, sparking a debate about fairness in the industry.
The nepotism accusations followed her daughter North West’s Hollywood debut as Simba in Disney’s The Lion King live concert. The 10-year-old took to the stage at the prestigious Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, performing in celebration of the film’s 30th anniversary.
Despite the momentous occasion, the performance quickly sparked controversy, with critics questioning North’s singing abilities and the influence of her famous parents in securing the role.
A video of North’s performance went viral, and it wasn’t long before detractors voiced their opinions. Comments like “She wasn’t appropriate for the role,” and “She can’t even sing,” flooded social media, with some accusing Kim Kardashian and Kanye West of using their clout to get their daughter a spot she wasn’t ready for.
One critic remarked, “I don’t mind nepotism, but at least be good at what you’re trying to do,” while another stated, “Y’all forget that this is a child, blame the director and Kim for the nepotism.” The backlash highlights the ongoing debate about the ethics of celebrity influence in Hollywood.
However, not everyone was quick to condemn North’s performance. Some people came to her defense, appreciating her efforts and potential. Supportive comments included, “Just me or does she sound a lot like the original singer? Just needs a little more practice and would be perfect. Happy for her,” and “Y’all gotta chill on North and stop acting like she ain’t a child too 😂💀 I’m sure the other billionaires and their kids are fine.”
These supporters argue that North, as a child, deserves encouragement rather than harsh criticism, and believe that with time and practice, she could excel in her role.
The mixed reactions to North West’s performance underscore the complexities of navigating a career in the spotlight, especially for the children of celebrities. While some see her Hollywood debut as an example of nepotism, others view it as an opportunity for a young talent to grow.
Pop icon Kylie Minogue proves age is just a number as she celebrates her 56th birthday with a stunning, sizzling photo that has left fans in awe. Click here to see the breathtaking photo and read more about how Kylie Minogue continues to defy the passage of time.
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