‘Baywatch’ star Michael Newman dies at 68 after Parkinson’s diagnosis

Felker stated there have been occasions he needed to stop creating the docuseries, however then he “remembered Mike” and “could not let him down.” He additionally stated that earlier than Newman died, he learn him letters and performed movies from buddies from all walks of life, so “he knew he was liked.”

“I misplaced my buddy. A hero. My hero,” he wrote. “Thanks for coming into my life Newmie. Even when it was a short time.”

Felker advised Individuals journal that Newman died Sunday evening of “coronary heart problems,” surrounded by family and friends.

Recognized with Parkinson’s illness at age 50, Newman revealed what life with the illness was like within the docuseries, which profiled forged members’ lives after they starred in “Baywatch.” He stated he’d typically get up “jittery” after having taken 10 medicines a day.

Newman spent years earlier than his demise elevating cash with the Michael J. Fox Basis to assist discover a remedy.

Born in Los Angeles, he rose to stardom within the ’90s because the beloved lifeguard Mike “Newmie” Newman on “Baywatch” and was the one forged member with real-life lifeguarding expertise. Over the course of the present’s 1989-2001 run, he appeared in 150 episodes — second solely to David Hasselhoff. 

“Baywatch” centered on a workforce of lifeguards, led by Lt. Mitch Buchannon (Hasselhoff), as they saved lives, managed private dramas, combated crime and adventured alongside the shores of Los Angeles. Newman shared the display with Pamela Anderson, Nicole Eggert, Yasmine Bleeth and Jeremy Jackson.

He was additionally a full-time firefighter, balancing his duties on the firehouse together with his filming schedule. After the collection concluded, he continued firefighting for one more 25 years earlier than he retired.

He reprised his position as Newmie in three episodes of the 1995 spinoff collection “Baywatch Nights.”

Newman is survived by his spouse, Sarah, whom he married 36 years in the past; his grown youngsters, Chris and Emily; and his 1-year-old granddaughter, Charlie.