Olivia Dunne shares behind the scenes Baywatch preparation as former LSU gymnast turns social media fame into acting opportunity

Social media star and former gymnast Olivia Dunne has given fans a first look at her preparation for the upcoming Baywatch project. The 23-year-old recently posted beach photos showing herself in classic red lifeguard-style clothing while holding the script for the new production.

The pictures quickly went viral across Instagram and TikTok, where Dunne already has millions of followers.The former Louisiana State University gymnast shared a light-hearted caption with the post, writing, “I’m not a lifeguard, but I play one on TV.” The role marks Dunne’s first real step into acting after her gymnastics career ended in April 2025. According to a report by People, the internet personality will play a young lifeguard named Grace in the upcoming reboot, giving her a new platform outside sports.

Olivia Dunne opens up about acting journey as she prepares for Baywatch role

For Olivia Dunne, the move from gymnastics arenas to film sets did not happen overnight. In an interview with People, she explained that acting had been on her mind for years, even while she was competing at LSU.“One thing people would be surprised about is that I take acting lessons and I really love it,” Dunne told the magazine. “It’s something I’ve been passionate about for quite some time.”She also explained why she never tried acting earlier during college.

“I was interested in doing that at LSU, but sports are your top priority when you’re a student-athlete at school. School and sports come first, and really gymnastics was my main focus,” she said.Now that her college career is over, Dunne finally has the time to explore that interest. “And now that I’m done with school, I have more time to lean into the acting stuff and the creative side of things,” she added.Sources close to the production say Dunne will play Grace, a junior lifeguard who brings energy and enthusiasm to the beach team. The reboot also features actor Stephen Amell in the lead role as Hobie Buchannon. Meanwhile, longtime Baywatch actor David Chokachi is expected to return as Cody Madison, bringing a connection to the original 1990s series.Production has already started moving forward. Reports say the cast recently held their first table read as filming preparations began around Venice Beach in California.Dunne’s huge social media following could also help the project reach younger audiences. Across TikTok and Instagram, she has built an online community of more than 15 million followers, making her one of the most recognizable former college athletes in the United States.For Dunne, the Baywatch role is not just another internet moment. It is the start of a new career path after years spent training and competing in gymnastics.