Pamela Anderson has firmly stated she will not reprise her iconic role as CJ Parker.
With Fox gearing up for its much-anticipated Baywatch reboot, Anderson clarified she has “no plans” to return to the franchise that catapulted her to international stardom. Following the acclaim she received for her Golden Globe-nominated performance in The Last Showgirl, the actress expressed to Deadline her focus is now on exploring fresh creative ventures rather than treading familiar ground.
“No one’s approached me about it. I’m not really familiar with the details. I understand there were discussions involving my sons regarding production roles, but it didn’t seem to progress. I’m not sure what transpired, but I hope it turns out well. Working on the show was a fantastic experience, and I truly enjoyed my days at the beach. Back then, it was an invaluable learning experience that gave me global recognition. Every step has brought me to this point, and for that, I’m grateful. However, I have no intention of returning to Baywatch,” she revealed.
Anderson’s decision does not stem from any negative experiences. On the contrary, she reminisces about her time on the series with affection, yet she is keen to venture into new territory rather than dwell on the past.
“If my sons had been involved, perhaps I’d have considered it,” Anderson added. “I’m eager to see what else lies ahead. There’s an abundance of excellent television out there right now, but I’ve already been part of that world. Now, the moment has come for me to explore different roles. I’m not looking to simply pass the time until the year ends. I have exciting options and ideas, including possibly returning to the theater. I want to make daring choices, surprise people, and surprise myself. So I’m seeking opportunities I haven’t pursued before.”
Anderson played fan-favorite lifeguard CJ Parker from 1992 through 1997 before reprising the role for a cameo in the 2017 Baywatch movie.
The new series, which is currently filming, centers on Hobie Buchannon (Stephen Amell), who has followed in the footsteps of his legendary father, Mitch Buchannon — played by David Hasselhoff in the original series — by becoming a Baywatch captain. His life is thrown into turmoil when Charlie (Jessica Belkin), the daughter he never knew he had, arrives hoping to continue the Buchannon family legacy by joining Baywatch alongside her father.
The cast also includes Shay Mitchell as Trina, Hassie Harrison as Nat, Thaddeus LaGrone as Brad, Noah Beck as Luke and Brooks Nader as Selene. Livvy Dunne is set to make her acting debut in a recurring role as Grace, while original Baywatch stars David Chokachi and Erika Eleniak will reprise their roles as Cody Madison and Shauni McClain.
The reboot is co-produced by Fox Entertainment and Fremantle, with Burn Notice creator Matt Nix serving as showrunner and executive producer. McG directs the premiere and executive produces alongside Michael Berk, Greg Bonann, Doug Schwartz, Dante Di Loreto and Mike Horowitz.