"Newman was a warrior"

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David Hasselhoff bids farewell to his "Baywatch" colleague Michael Newman. The actor died at the age of 68.(Bild: Courtesy Everett Collection / Everett Collection)

David Hasselhoff mourns the loss of his former "Baywatch" co-star Michael Newman. The TV star died at the age of 68.

Newman and Hasselhoff were in front of the camera together for a total of ten seasons. It was announced on Tuesday that the trained lifeguard and firefighter, who had battled Parkinson's for years, had passed away.

"Newman was a warrior"
Hasselhoff has now bid farewell to his ex-series colleague on Instagram. "Newman was a warrior," wrote the 72-year-old in his message, which he published together with a photo of himself and Michael Newman in their legendary "Baywatch" red swimming trunks.

He is forever indebted to Newman, Hasselhoff continued. "He saved my life at least four times. He made the jump from motorboat to jet ski perfectly several times. What an incredible man. He was never afraid of the water."

"We all miss him"
Newman actually only had a guest role at the beginning of the hit series, as a consultant to make the cast suitable for lifeguarding. However, the guest role quickly became a permanent role in the "Baywatch" ensemble that was popular with fans. No surprise for Hasselhoff, as he went on to explain.

Because: "I remember being his director for a few episodes. He was really good. He turned into a great actor. We all miss him."

Died surrounded by family
Matthew Felker, director of the documentary series "After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun" confirmed to "People" magazine that Michael Newman died on the evening of October 20 after "complications with his heart". The actor, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2006, was surrounded by his family and friends.