Michael Newman, known for his role as Mike “Newmie” Newman in the popular TV show “Baywatch,” passed away on October 20, 2024. He was at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California. Newman was 67 years old.
His passing was due to heart complications, following a protracted 18-year fight with Parkinson’s disease. Newman was surrounded by his loved ones during his final moments.
Newman featured in 150 episodes of “Baywatch” from 1989 to 2000. His character was among the show’s longest-running. Notably, Newman was the only cast member with real-life lifeguard experience. He started his career as a junior lifeguard at the age of 10 at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California, adding an authentic touch to his role.
His friend, Matt Felker, who directed the Hulu docuseries “After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun,” visited Newman shortly before his death. Felker recalled Newman’s laughter and humor, which he maintained even in his final moments.
During his last visit, Felker and others played videos and read letters from friends to Newman, ensuring he was surrounded by love. Newman silently nodded to Felker before he left, a gesture that was reciprocated.
Throughout his stint on “Baywatch,” Newman also served as a full-time firefighter with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. After “Baywatch,” he continued his firefighting career, retiring after 25 years of service. He also appeared in the spin-off series “Baywatch Nights” and the 1998 movie “Baywatch: White Thunder at Glacier Bay.”
Newman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 50 in 2006. In later years, he committed his efforts to raising funds for the Michael J. Fox Foundation in search of a cure. In an interview with People magazine in August 2024, Newman shared that his illness had provided him with considerable time for reflection, and despite the unwelcome situation, it had imparted wisdom.
Newman and his wife had planned to retire in Hawaii, where they had constructed their dream house prior to his diagnosis. He leaves behind his wife, Sarah, their two adult children, Chris and Emily, and their one-year-old grandchild, Charlie.