Baywatch actor dies after Parkinson’s battle

Los Angeles, CA (WJW) – Michael Newman, best known for his role as lifeguard Mike “Newmie” Newman on the iconic television series “Baywatch,” has died at the age of 68.

PEOPLE confirmed his passing. Newman had been battling Parkinson’s since 2006.

Newman’s close friend, director Matt Felker, revealed that the actor died from heart complications on the evening of Sunday, Oct. 20, surrounded by family and friends.

“I got to see Mike the last time he was conscious and he looked [at] me and in typical Mike fashion said, ‘You’re just in time,’” Felker shared with PEOPLE.

Newman was a mainstay on “Baywatch,” appearing in 150 episodes from 1989 to 2001.

He was the only cast member who was also a certified lifeguard, according to PEOPLE.

Newman served as a full-time firefighter during his acting career and continued firefighting for another 25 years after the show ended.