Michael Newman | Source: Getty Images
The beloved actor and firefighter, best known for his role in “Baywatch,” has died at the age of 68.
Michael Newman passed away on October 20, 2024, due to heart complications. He had been battling Parkinson’s disease since 2006. Furthermore, his close friend, Matt Felker,
confirmed
that Newman was surrounded by family and friends during his final moments.
Felker also shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. He recounted a touching moment during their last encounter, where the actor, with his characteristic humor,
said
, “You’re just in time.”
The heartbroken man went on to describe how Newman gripped his hand tightly and looked him in the eye, giving a nod. Felker nodded back and assured his friend they would meet again. Sadly, just days later, Newman was gone. “Thanks for coming into my life Newmie [sic]. Even if it was a brief time,” his friend
finished
.
Los Angeles-born Newman rose to fame in the ’90s as the only real lifeguard in the “Baywatch” cast, playing Mike “Newmie” Newman in
150 episodes
from 1989 to 2001.
He was second only to
David Hasselhoff
in appearances. While filming, he also worked as a full-time firefighter and continued his firefighting career until retiring after 25 years. In recent years, Newman
dedicated his time
to raising money for Parkinson’s research with the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
In an August interview, he said he hoped his story would raise awareness of the need for a cure. He
reflected
on his diagnosis, “This terminal disease has allowed me a lot of thinking time, which I maybe didn’t want, but it’s brought me wisdom.”
Upon hearing the news, fans around the world were quick to express their grief and admiration for Newman on social media. One fan
wrote
, ”
Nooooooooo! [sic]😭 RIP Newmie. You were a true hero & warrior 🙏🏻,
” while another
said
, ”
He was a warrior, [sic] he fought that damn disease so hard and tried to live his life the best way possible. 🙏🏻💔
”
Many recalled his iconic role, with one user
commenting
, “Newmie was one of the best characters on ‘Baywatch’!” The actor is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sarah, their two children, Chris and Emily, and a granddaughter, Charlie.
Before his diagnosis, Newman
had planned
to retire in Hawaii with Sarah, having built their dream home near where “Baywatch: Hawaii” was filmed. The TV and real-life lifeguard is only the latest actor from an iconic show who has passed away. Just recently,
John Ashton
from “Beverly Hills Cop” died.
Michael Newman and Parker Stevenson at the premiere of ABC News Studios docuseries “After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun” held at The Bungalow on August 26, 2024 in Santa Monica, California | Source: Getty Images
Our deepest condolences go out to Newman’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.