Michael Newmanbest known for his role as lifeguard Mike “Newmie” Newman on “Baywatch,” has died… 18 years after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
He died from heart complications on Sunday night, surrounded by family and friends – with the tragic news confirmed Tuesday by his friend Matt Felkerwho directed the recent Hulu documentary “Baywatch.”
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Matt said PEOPLE“I saw Mike the last time he was conscious, and he looked at me and, in typical Mike fashion, said, ‘You’re just in time.'” Felker also posted a lengthy tribute to Michael on his IG.
Michael Newman was a staple on the iconic 1990s California beach show, appearing in 150 episodes – the most of anyone in the cast except David Hasselhoff.
He was famously the only cast member who was a lifeguard in real life… and he also worked as a firefighter, juggling both jobs while starring on the show. After “Baywatch” ended in 2001, he returned to work as a firefighter full-time until his retirement.
Michael was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 50, and his journey was highlighted in Felker’s “After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun.” He told People in August that his battle with the disease gave him a lot of time to reflect and brought him a lot of wisdom.
He has spent the last 5 years working with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to raise money for Parkinson’s research and finding a cure.
Michael leaves his wife Sarayour children Chris and Emilyand her 1-year-old granddaughter, Charlie.
He was 68 years old.
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