Michael Newman, 'Baywatch' Actor, Dead at 68 Following 18-Year Long Parkinson's Battle
'Baywatch' actor Michael Newman died after suffering heart complications on October 20.
He was 68.
The late star reportedly passed away surrounded by family and friends 18 years after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
Newman's death was announced and confirmed Tuesday by his close friend, Matt Felker — who took to social media to write a heartfelt message for the beloved star.
"Few of us are lucky enough to have someone like Mike Newman enter and change their life," Felker wrote of his friend, who he described as a "real life hero" and "competitor through and through."
He continued: "I got to see Mike before he passed away. He was unconscious mostly... when I showed up he was awake almost like a miracle and looked at me and said "you're just in time" and laughed. That was Mike. He found humor all the way until the end. Before I left him, we read him letters and played videos from friends from all walks of life. He knew he was loved."
Felker concluded: "Before I left him he grabbed my hand as tight as he could and looked me dead in the eyes and just nodded, I nodded and said. "We will see each other again.. I promise". A few days later. I lost my friend. A hero. My hero. Thanks for coming into my life Newmie. Even if it was a brief time."
Fans and friends on social media alike took to the comment section to send their well wishes and condolences. "RIP Mike Newman. A huge loss to the Baywatch community and so many more. Glad you got to know him," one fan penned. "I'm so sorry for your loss. You were blessed to have known him," a second wrote.
Newman — who played the role of "Newmie" in the cult-classic series —wasn't just a lifeguard in the acting world, but a lifeguard in real life, in addition to juggling his real life role as a firefighter. When 'Baywatch' wrapped in 2001, he continued his duties as a firefighter full time up until his retirement.
The actor's battle with Parkinson's disease was detailed in Felker's Hulu series, 'After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun,' as they revealed never before seen home videos and intimate footage of the iconic stars.
The late actor is survived by his wife Sarah, their kids Chris and Emily, and their granddaughter, Charlie, 1.
