Baywatch Vet Michael Newman Dead At 68 — 18 Years After Parkinson's Diagnosis

Michael Newman, best known for his role as lifeguard Mike "Newmie" Newman on TV's Baywatch, died on Oct. 20 due to heart complications. He was 68.

Newman's friend Matthew Felker — who directed the recent Hulu docuseries After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun — shared the news and cause of death with People.com, adding that Newman died "surrounded by his family and friends."

Newman was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2006.

Newman guest-starred in the April 1989 Baywatch pilot, recurred on the NBC-turned-syndicated series through Season 6, and joined the main cast for Seasons 7-10 (of 11). All told, he appeared in 150 total episodes, more than anyone except franchise front man David Hasselhoff (who played Mitch Buchannon).

Newman also appeared as Newmie in three episodes of Hasselhoff's two-season, science-fiction-tinged Baywatch Nights spinoff.

Newman is regarded as the only Baywatch cast member who actually worked as an L.A. County lifeguard, for more than 20 years.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sarah; their two grown children, Chris and Emily; and a 1-year-old granddaughter.