FOX Entertainment Nabs Tax Credit to Bring Baywatch Back to California

FOX Entertainment is bringing its reimagined Baywatch series back to California after being awarded an enhanced 40 percent tax credit by the California Film Commission.

“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,” said Rob Wade, CEO of FOX Entertainment. “This collaboration between government and entertainment truly shows what’s possible when we work together to support local jobs and economic growth, while showcasing the stunning California coast for audiences around the world.”

“Baywatch has long been a valued part of Fremantle’s portfolio and continues to be one of the most iconic television series worldwide,” commented Christian Vesper, CEO of drama at Fremantle. “We are thrilled to receive support from the California Film Commission. Baywatch’s home has always been the California coast and being able to bring this next chapter back to where it all started is truly special.”

“The expansion and modernization of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit is already delivering results,” said Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur. “The return of major productions like Baywatch means hundreds of good-paying jobs, new opportunities for local crews and small businesses and millions invested right here in Los Angeles. This is exactly what we envisioned when we strengthened the program—keeping our creative economy strong and our entertainment industry competitive. I appreciate FOX Entertainment’s commitment to investing in California’s workforce and keeping production where it belongs.”

LA Councilwoman Traci Park said, “I’m proud that Venice will once again be a backdrop for the kind of iconic California storytelling that made Baywatch a global symbol. This is more than nostalgia—it’s opportunity. The governor’s vote to boost the film and television tax credit means we’re not shipping production overseas; we’re employing hundreds of Californians, strengthening small businesses and showing the world why L.A. is still the creative capital.”

“Los Angeles County is the heart of the creative economy, and we must keep it strong by supporting local productions that create good jobs for Angelenos,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “Bringing Baywatch back to Venice Beach isn’t just iconic—it’s an investment in our people, generating hundreds of local jobs at a critical time for our signature industry. This effort takes real partnership, and we’re proud to work with FOX Entertainment and our State and City partners to make it happen.