Today: November 9, 2024
Baywatch star Michael Newman, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2006, died from heart complications on Oct. 20 while ‘surrounded by his family friends,’ his close friend Matthew Felker revealed.
Newman was best-known for playing the character Mike “Newmie” Newman in US soap opera Baywatch, which ran form 1989 to 2001. During this period, he starred alongside David Hasselhoff, Yasmine Bleeth, Pamela Anderson, and many other big names.
“ I was able to see Mike one last time, and he greeted me with his usual warmth, saying, ‘You’re just in time,” Felker his close friend who direct the recent Hulu documentary After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun, recalled, reflecting on the final moments together. According to Felker, Newman “was not only a real-life hero. He was a competitor through and through.”
Michael Newman was born and raised in Los Angeles, and became a household name in the 1990s while taking up a character on Baywatch. Unlike most of the cast, Newman was a real-life lifeguard, lending authenticity to his portrayal over 150 episodes, the second-most of any cast member after David Hasselhoff.
Aside from this work on the show, Newman continued his career as a full-time firefighter, balancing his duties at the firehouse while filming. After conclusion of the series, he remained committed to his firefighting career until retiring after 25 years of service.
After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 50, Newman became an advocate for raising awareness and funds to find a cure. Partnering with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, he took part in events aimed at spreading awareness about the disease.
“This illness has given me time to think and reflect, which has brought me a lot of wisdom,” Newman said in a People interview in August. “ My body has changed so slowly that I hardly notice it, yet I am constantly reminded that Parkinson’s has now become the center of my life.”
“It’s not easy, but I’ve come to cherish every day get to be on this earth with family and friends. I’m taking life seriously. It’s not a run-through.’ Newman is survived by his wife Sarah and their children Chris and Emily.
After learning of Newman’s passing, D’Errico, who starred alongside Michael Newman in the series took to Instagram to share a number of photos, which show her alongside her longtime screen partner. As cool as the behind-the-scenes pics and TV stills were, it was the sentimental caption that the actress shared that was truly affecting.
Alex Blige is a bestselling author and expert on various topics. With over a decade of experience in the field, Alex has helped thousands of people achieve their goals and improve their lives. With a degree in computer science and a background in journalism, Alex brings a unique perspective to his work. He has written several blogs on topics ranging from mindfulness to productivity, and is a sought-after speaker and coach.