Brooks Nader Brings Lifelong Fandom to 'Baywatch' Reboot as Sharp-Tongued Captain Selene

Key facts

• Brooks Nader is cast as Selene, the sharp-tongued Captain of the Zuma beach lifeguards in the 'Baywatch' reboot.
• The 12-episode reboot is slated to premiere later this year or early next year.
• Nader cites Pamela Anderson and Carmen Electra as inspirations for her role.
• Nader has been practicing the slow-motion run since she was two years old.
• The cast includes Livvy Dunne, Shay Mitchell, Noah Beck, and Stephen Amell.
• Nader's character Selene has a rivalry with Baywatch Captain Hobie Buchannon.
• Wardrobe staff cried when Nader first put on the iconic red bathing suit.

A Lifelong Dream Realized

Brooks Nader, the model and star of Hulu's 'Love Thy Nader,' is adding actress to her résumé with a role in the upcoming 'Baywatch' reboot. She describes the casting as an 'out-of-body experience,' particularly when she first donned the franchise's iconic red bathing suit. 'Even the wardrobe people were crying,' Nader said. 'They were like, “This is so big and this is so exciting.”' Nader has been a fan of the original series since childhood, watching Pamela Anderson and Carmen Electra. She has been preparing for this moment for years, practicing the show's signature slow-motion run. 'I’ve been doing this since I was like two years old. I’ve been ready for this,' she stated confidently. 'I got this. I’ve been watching the videos of Pam and Carmen Electra. I’m ready for this.'

The Character: Selene, Captain of Zuma Beach

Nader will play Selene, described as 'the sharp-tongued Captain of the Zuma beach lifeguards.' According to the character's official bio, 'While [Selene] is excellent at her job, she and Baywatch Captain Hobie Buchannon have a very different approach to saving lives that is a constant source of friction.' The rivalry deepens when Hobie brings his daughter, Charlie, onto his team, revealing that their conflict 'goes much deeper than lifeguarding.' Nader's character brings a new dynamic to the franchise, offering a contrast to the more seasoned leadership of Hobie Buchannon. The reboot promises to explore their tense relationship as a central plotline.

The Reboot's Cast and Production

The 12-episode reboot, slated to premiere either later this year or early next year, features a diverse ensemble cast. Alongside Nader, the series stars Livvy Dunne, Shay Mitchell, Noah Beck, and Stephen Amell. The show aims to revitalize the iconic franchise for a new generation while honoring its legacy. Nader praised the energy on set, saying, 'I feel like the energy with the cast and the crew and everybody involved is just spectacular. Everyone’s so excited to see it all come to life. I think everyone’s going to love the show. Everyone’s working really hard, so it’s exciting.'

Embracing the Iconic Slow-Motion Run

Nader has fully embraced the slow-motion run that became synonymous with the original 'Baywatch.' She joked, 'I only run in slow-mo. I don’t run in normal motion anymore. That’s my new personality, it’s running in slow-mo.' Her playful attitude reflects her deep connection to the source material. Having practiced the run in front of a mirror since age ten, Nader is confident in her portrayal. 'I’ve been doing this in my mirror since I was like 10 years old. You know what I mean? So you’ll like my run,' she said. Her dedication to the role highlights the care being taken to honor the show's cultural touchstones.

From Fandom to Frontline: Nader's Journey

Nader's transition from model and reality TV star to actress marks a significant career step. She grew up watching 'Baywatch' and has long admired the original cast. 'I’ve been doing this since I was like two years old,' she reiterated, underscoring her lifelong preparation. Her casting reflects a broader trend of reboots tapping into nostalgia while introducing fresh faces. Nader's enthusiasm and familiarity with the franchise may resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers. The series aims to capture the spirit of the original while updating it for contemporary audiences.

What Lies Ahead for the Reboot

With production underway and a premiere window set for late this year or early next, anticipation is building. The 12-episode order allows for deeper character development and serialized storytelling, a departure from the original's episodic format. Nader's character, Selene, is poised to be a fan favorite, bringing sharp wit and competence to the beach. The reboot's success will depend on balancing nostalgia with innovation. Nader's commitment to the role and the positive energy on set bode well. As she put it, 'Everyone’s working really hard, so it’s exciting.' The coming months will reveal whether this new 'Baywatch' can make a splash.

The bottom line

• Brooks Nader stars as Selene, the sharp-tongued Captain of Zuma Beach lifeguards, in the 'Baywatch' reboot.
• The 12-episode series is expected to premiere in late 2024 or early 2025.
• Nader has been a lifelong fan and has practiced the slow-motion run since childhood.
• The cast includes Livvy Dunne, Shay Mitchell, Noah Beck, and Stephen Amell.
• Nader's character has a professional rivalry with Baywatch Captain Hobie Buchannon.
• The reboot aims to honor the original while introducing new storylines and characters.