Cinema Updates: New 'Baywatch' Series, 'Escaping Bolivia', and More

In the latest updates from the world of television and cinema, several exciting new series are set to make their debut in the coming years.

Prime Video Secures 'Baywatch'

Starting January 2027, FOX will launch a reboot of the iconic series "Baywatch," originally famous in the 90s for its portrayal of Malibu lifeguards, which starred David Hasselhoff and catapulted Pamela Anderson to fame. Fans in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland can also look forward to streaming the series on Prime Video, as international rights have been secured through a comprehensive deal with Fremantle, the production company collaborating with Fox Entertainment. Additionally, all nine seasons of the original series, along with the spin-off "Baywatch Hawaii," will be available on Prime Video prior to the reboot's release.

The new "Baywatch" will consist of twelve episodes, featuring lifeguards in their signature red swimsuits tackling perilous rescue missions and personal conflicts. The cast includes Stephen Amell from "Arrow" as Hobie Buchannon, alongside Jessica Belkin, Shay Mitchell, Hassie Harrison, Thaddeus LaGrone, Noah Beck, and Brooks Nader. Notably, several original cast members will reprise their roles, including David Chokachi, Erika Eleniak, Michael Bergin, and Kelly Packard.

'Escaping Bolivia' Available on ARD Mediathek and ONE

The six-part Norwegian thriller series "Escaping Bolivia" will be available on the ARD Mediathek starting September 4, 2026, with a linear broadcast commencing on September 11 at 21:30 on ONE. The series follows a seemingly carefree trip gone wrong for three friends: 17-year-old Ida, her first love Cecile (18), and Michelle (21), the ex-girlfriend of Ida's brother. Their adventure turns into a nightmare when they are arrested at the airport for carrying 22 kilograms of cocaine, which they claim was planted on them. As they navigate life in a women's prison in Cochabamba, they face harsh realities that test their friendship.

Sky Announces Original Series 'War'

On October 5, 2026, Sky Atlantic and Sky Showcase will premiere "War," an original production starring Sienna Miller and Dominic West. Created by George Kay, known for "Lupin" and "Hijack," this eight-part series explores the intense rivalry between two elite London law firms, culminating in a high-stakes divorce case involving British tech entrepreneur Morgan Henderson (played by West) and international film star Carla Duval (Miller). A teaser trailer for the series has been released, and it has already been confirmed that a second season is in the works, with filming underway. The upcoming season will feature actors such as Marisa Tomei, Kelly Macdonald, and David Harewood.

New Casting for 'Thunder Road'

AMC's "Thunder Road" has announced a new addition to its cast: Jack Manley will take on the lead role of Zak Farley, a character who poses a challenge to the Whitlock racing family. This multi-generational saga delves into the family's deep-rooted legacy in stock car racing and their connections to the southern hills that have shaped them.

'The Lowdown' Season 2 Premiere Date Revealed

FX has announced that the second season of "The Lowdown" will premiere on October 14, 2026. While the release date for Disney+ remains uncertain, the series follows Lee (Ethan Hawke) as he navigates the life and death of Dale Washberg, earning him recognition as a local citizen journalist. His unfiltered acceptance speech attracts the attention of Ginger, who seeks his help with a case involving a client mysteriously missing from state prison.

Continuation of 'Navy CIS' Season 23

The German broadcaster Sat.1 is set to continue airing the 23rd season of "Navy CIS" at 20:15.

Delay for 'The Witcher' Final Season

Originally slated for release this year, the final fifth season of "The Witcher" on Netflix has been postponed until next year, with no specific date announced yet.

'9-1-1: Notruf LA' Finds New Home

The ProSiebenSat.1 group has announced a channel change for "9-1-1: Notruf LA." Following the trend of other shows moving networks, this series will now air on Kabel Eins, with its eighth season debuting on August 28, 2026, featuring back-to-back episodes.

Catherine Bühnsack & Daniela S. - myFanbase 13.08.2026 15:52