New John Wells Drama Lands at FOX

FOX has ordered the Hawaii-set lifeguard drama Rescue: HI-Surf, which comes from executive producer John Wells (Shameless, The West Wing, ER) and executive producer/writer Matt Kester (Animal Kingdom, Outsiders).

The action-infused drama follows the personal and professional lives of the heavy-water lifeguards who patrol and protect the North Shore of O’ahu. Each episode will feature these first responders saving lives in the difficult and often life-threatening conditions of Hawaii’s Seven Mile Miracle.

Kester will write the first episode, and Wells will direct the first two episodes.

The new John Wells Productions action franchise, co-produced by Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment, will premiere on FOX in 2023-24.

“Rescue: HI-Surf brings an edge-of-your-seat style to the North Shore of Hawaii, where lifeguards and surfers collide with visceral rescues, great character drama and all-around fun,” said Michael Thorn, president of scripted programming at FOX Entertainment. “This new franchise is pure beachfront property for FOX, especially with the powerful auspices of John, Matt and our incredible partners at Warner Bros.”

“Matt and I couldn’t be happier to partner with FOX on this exciting opportunity to bring the best lifeguards in the world to the attention of television audiences,” said Wells.

“I’ve lived on the North Shore of O’ahu for most of my life, and these are our heroes, the most extraordinary extreme athletes anywhere,” said Kester.

“Warner Bros. Television has been riding a creative wave with John Wells for many years, and Rescue: HI-Surf is another thrilling project that will capture the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere,” said Channing Dungey, chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group. “We’re excited to partner with John, Matt Kester and FOX to tell the stories of heavy-water lifeguards in a way that has not been seen before. I can’t wait for everyone to experience this thrilling new franchise.”