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Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn’t gain or lose 5lbs: ‘Everybody was disposable’

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Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'

As I delve into this delightful reminiscence of Baywatch’s legendary lifeguards, I can’t help but marvel at the transformative journey each actor embarked upon. From Nicole, who discovered empowerment through self-expression, to Traci, Angelica, and even Jeremy, they all embraced change and grew stronger in their own unique ways.

In a four-part documentary titled “After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun,” which debuted on Hulu on Wednesday, Nicole Eggert, former star of Baywatch, revealed that while they were part of the world’s top-rated show, actors like herself only received $3,500 per episode. This is one of several startling disclosures made in the series.

Erika Eleniak, known for her role as lifeguard Shauni McClain from 1989 to 1992, reminisced: ‘I was quite surprised when I saw my first paycheck after taxes – I wondered how I could possibly survive on that amount of money.’

Billy Warlock, who portrayed lifeguard Eddie Kramer from 1989 to 1992, stated: ‘Not a single wealthy actor was on Baywatch. Everyone was replaceable, and if you didn’t align with their image at the price they were offering, you were let go.’

Alexandra Paul, known for her role as Lieutenant Stephanie Holden (from 1992-97), pointed out that the budget for Baywatch was significantly less compared to other television series being produced during the same period.

It’s said that several cast members had to accept reduced pay when the NBC show was rescued from cancellation through syndication, but David Hasselhoff, who played Mitch Buchannon (the lifeguard) from 1989-2000 and also produced the series, benefited financially from the rerun earnings.

Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'

“The actor, who is 72 years old and a seasoned professional, expressed gratitude for being involved in this line of work, for having this job, and for participating in this interview. He also shared why he decided to take part in this documentary.”

1. “We’re making this documentary as Baywatch continues to be a source of endless inspiration for us. It has greatly enriched my personal journey.”

One method Baywatch producers used to reduce expenses was by incorporating extensive scenes featuring their suggestive montages, showcasing athletic figures in skimpy swimwear on the beach.

Incidentally, over the course of the 12 seasons in the action series created by Michael Berk, Douglas Schwartz, and Gregory J. Bonann, the swimsuits worn by the actresses grew progressively smaller and more revealing.

‘For me, that’s when my comfort level went [down],’ Eleniak lamented.

‘The second year, I felt like necklines plunged.’

Kelly Packard, known for her role as lifeguard April Giminski among others from 1991 to 1999, remarked: ‘It was absolutely chaotic. It was impossible to work effectively in such conditions.’

During the filming of Baywatch, the cast was specifically advised to maintain their current weight, meaning they weren’t allowed to either gain or lose more than 5 pounds.

Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'

In my days back then, I was often recognized as having a more voluptuous figure. To put it simply, I carried a bit more on my lower half. Compared to the rest, everyone else seemed incredibly petite and slender. This is how I remember it, reminiscing about my role as Summer Quinn from 1992-94.

‘I believe that the TV show Baywatch may have contributed to the trend among girls of desiring larger lips, larger breasts, and smaller bodies. At the age of 20, I made changes to my own body by getting implants.’

Traci Bingham, known for her role as lifeguard Jordan Tate from 1996-1998, commented: “The style back then emphasized larger breasts, with size being considered superior.”

Angelica Bridges, known for her role as lifeguard Taylor Walsh from 1997-1998, stated: ‘We needed to stay in shape, and avoiding cellulite was a must. There was a significant amount of stress involved.’

At least one actress, Alexandra, didn’t fit the stereotypical image of a Baywatch cast member due to her athletic physique from swimming and her short hairstyle.

Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'
Baywatch actors only earned $3,500 per episode and couldn't gain or lose 5lbs: 'Everybody was disposable'

In a reflective manner, the 61-year-old triathlete shared, “Regardless of what actions I take, I won’t be able to pull off that sensual performance as gracefully as other actresses. Therefore, I decided to embrace my unique self.”

By getting a haircut, I found that my physique grew leaner and stronger. It was then that I truly understood the power of being true to oneself.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I can relate to the experience of Jeremy Jackson, famously known for his role as lifeguard Hobie Buchannon. When the producers started nudging me about my physique, pointing out my skinny arms and bulky midriff, I realized it was time for a change. So, just like him, I hired a personal trainer to kick-start my mornings, ensuring I wouldn’t hit the snooze button anymore.

35 individuals involved in the production, both actors and creators, participated in “After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun.” This special program includes more than a decade’s collection of unseen home videos, captured by the cast themselves.

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2024-08-28 22:09

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