FOX’s Reimagined Baywatch Comes Back to L.A. Thanks to 40% Tax Credit

FOX Entertainment announced that its upcoming reimagined Baywatch has been awarded an enhanced 40% tax credit by the California Film Commission (CFC) under its Film & Television Tax Credit Program 4.0, ensuring that the legendary lifeguard action series will once again make waves along the sun-drenched California coast, including famed Venice Beach, where the massively popular global phenomenon first began.

The tax credit was granted as part of the CFC’s ongoing efforts to keep high-profile, job-creating productions in The Golden State. Filming Baywatch in its original home not only reinforces the franchise’s connection to the communities and locale that inspired it but also fuels tourism and fan enthusiasm for the Baywatch legacy – synonymous with the beauty, optimism and spectacle that define the California Dream.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside our partners at the California Film Commission to create an economically sustainable path for keeping a production like Baywatch – so spectacularly tied to this great city and state – right here in Los Angeles,” said Rob Wade, CEO of FOX Entertainment. “We’re especially grateful for the tremendous support from the many public officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom, who championed this effort, State Senator Ben Allen, State Assemblymember Rick Zbur, L.A. City Councilwoman Traci Park and L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. This collaboration between government and entertainment truly shows what’s possible when we work together to support local jobs and economic growth, while showcasing the stunning California coast for audiences around the world.”

“Baywatch has long been a valued part of Fremantle’s portfolio and continues to be one of the most iconic television series worldwide. We are thrilled to receive support from the California Film Commission,” added Christian Vesper, CEO, Drama, Fremantle. “Baywatch’s home has always been the California coast and being able to bring this next chapter back to where it all started is truly special.”

“The expansion and modernization of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit is already delivering results,” said Assembly member Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood). “The return of major productions like Baywatch means hundreds of good-paying jobs, new opportunities for local crews and small businesses, and millions invested right here in Los Angeles. This is exactly what we envisioned when we strengthened the program — keeping our creative economy strong and our entertainment industry competitive. I appreciate FOX Entertainment’s commitment to investing in California’s workforce and keeping production where it belongs.”

LA Councilwoman Traci Park said, “I’m proud that Venice will once again a backdrop for the kind of iconic California storytelling that made Baywatch a global symbol. This is more than nostalgia — it’s opportunity. The governor’s vote to boost the film and television tax credit means we’re not shipping production overseas; we’re employing hundreds of Californians, strengthening small businesses and showing the world why L.A. is still the creative capital.”

“Los Angeles County is the heart of the creative economy, and we must keep it strong by supporting local productions that create good jobs for Angelenos,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “Bringing Baywatch back to Venice Beach isn’t just iconic—it’s an investment in our people, generating hundreds of local jobs at a critical time for our signature industry. This effort takes real partnership, and we’re proud to work with FOX Entertainment and our State and City partners to make it happen.”

The CFC tax incentive supports the State of California and Governor Gavin Newsom’s commitment to keeping production in Hollywood’s hometown and the Entertainment Capital of the World. It has also facilitated Baywatch interior scenes to be produced on the historic FOX Studio Lot in LA’s Century City, which is also currently home to FOX’s unscripted juggernaut The Masked Singer, another CFC tax credit beneficiary.