Baywatch icon, 60, makes rare sighting nearly 30 years after wearing iconic red swimsuit… can you guess who?

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A member of the Baywatch family was spotted making a rare outing in Los Angeles on Thursday.

As a lifestyle expert, I always remember Erika Eleniak’s role on Baywatch. For 22 episodes, she was fantastic as the captain who kept everyone safe on those Malibu beaches, working alongside icons like Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff. It was a truly memorable part of television history!

You know, it’s been a while since she rocked that iconic red swimsuit, but she’s always stayed connected to her Baywatch days. She’s made appearances at fan events and reunions over the years, which is so lovely to see – a true nod to where she started!

She’s also well-known for her roles in classic shows like Saved By The Bell and Boy Meets World, proving her versatility as an actress.

Now 60, she shares two sons with her husband.  

Can you guess who this star is?

If you guessed Nancy Valen, you are correct!

Valen was seen taking a relaxed walk in Los Angeles, dressed comfortably for the occasion.

She walked down the street wearing black sweatpants, a white long-sleeved shirt, and sneakers, with her phone easily accessible.

Valen is still fondly remembered as a key part of Baywatch, a show that people continue to enjoy through reruns and updated versions.

She played Captain Samantha Thomas from 1996 to 1997.  

Baywatch was a hugely popular TV show that aired from 1989 to 1999. It reached an incredible 1.1 billion viewers each week in 148 countries around the globe.

The show was translated into 44 different languages.

A reboot starring Brooks Nader, Stephen Amell, and Shay Mitchell is now in the works. 

Throughout her career, Valen has appeared as a guest star on 23 different TV series, including popular shows like Friends, CSI, Boy Meets World, Full House, Charles in Charge, and Miami Vice.

Valen has been happily married to actor and producer, Nels Van Patten, since 1994.

The couple share sons, named Jake and Alex. 

In January 2025, as Los Angeles was being ravaged by fires that destroyed 37,000 acres and over 16,000 buildings, Valen let everyone know how she was doing.

Last night was really scary. I was out running errands and noticed a huge amount of smoke billowing from Mulholland Drive. We live in the flatter areas, and usually aren’t affected by fires, so I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it so close to home. I actually snapped a photo of the fire from where I was standing, it was pretty intense.

The Palisades fire is now reaching Mulholland Drive and could spread into the San Fernando Valley. We’re nearby and hoping the wind doesn’t pick up, as we’re close to the evacuation area. We’re thinking of everyone in danger and heartbroken to hear about friends who have already lost their homes.

‘Thank you to the firefighters and all those who have reached out,’ she concluded.

Her fans responded to the heartbreaking news with prayers and messages of support, sharing their love and sympathy.

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2026-04-24 17:38