A special event was recently held to honor the life of actor Michael Newman, who tragically passed away on October 20, 2024, due to heart failure. Newman, known for his role in the popular TV series Baywatch, was not only an American Lifeguard but also a retired firefighter. At the time of his passing, the 67-year-old was battling Parkinson’s Disease, making his death even more poignant.
The event was organized by Newman’s good friend, Matthew Felker, who is the director of Hulu’s Baywatch: The American Dream. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Felker shared his reasons for putting together this event. He emphasized that while names like Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff may come to mind when thinking of Baywatch, Mike Newman was truly the heart and soul of the show. Felker highlighted Newman’s dedication to serving others, both on and off the screen, as a real-life first responder firefighter and lifeguard.
Felker also spoke about Newman’s courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease, noting how the illness gradually took a toll on his friend’s body. Despite the challenges he faced, Newman never gave up the fight and continued to raise awareness about the disease. Felker expressed how telling Newman’s story through the Hulu series was incredibly rewarding and meaningful, as it allowed him to showcase his friend’s strength and resilience.
To ensure that Newman’s memory was properly honored, Felker enlisted the support of the Michael J. Fox foundation, along with several local businesses and community members. The event served as a touching tribute to Newman’s life and legacy, bringing together individuals who wanted to celebrate his contributions and raise funds for Parkinson’s research.
The support and generosity of the Malibu community were particularly noteworthy, as businesses like Sea n Soul, Bunce Bakes, Rancho West Beer, Malibu Charcuterie, Olan Law, and Tequila Tepozan all came together to sponsor the event. Their collective efforts demonstrated the impact that Newman had on those around him and the importance of coming together to honor his memory.
In a series of tweets, Felker expressed his gratitude for everyone who contributed to the event and helped make it a success. He highlighted the sense of community in Malibu and how moved he was by the outpouring of support for honoring Mike Newman’s life.
Overall, the fundraiser for Baywatch star Mike Newman, hosted by director Matthew Felker, was a heartfelt and meaningful tribute to a beloved actor and first responder. The event not only celebrated Newman’s legacy but also raised awareness and funds for Parkinson’s Disease research, further solidifying his impact on those who knew him and the community at large.
