A rookie lifeguard in California who put himself in danger to rescue a 10-year-old boy from drowning has been honored with a memorable surprise from the team behind the “Baywatch” TV series.
Ryder Williams was hailed as a hero after he pulled young Nathaniel Rai from rough waves at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz on July 25. The dramatic ocean rescue quickly drew national attention, including praise from President Trump, who said the teenager would be recognized with a prestigious civilian award.
Williams’ courageous lifeguard rescue soon reached beyond Washington and into Hollywood. On Thursday, the teen and his parents were invited to the set of Fox’s upcoming “Baywatch” series during its final day of filming, where cast and crew honored him with a touching gesture.
In a video posted to the show’s Instagram account, actor Stephen Amell praised Williams for his “extraordinarily brave” actions.
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Amell then presented the young lifeguard with one of his own red “Baywatch” crew jackets, a nod to the iconic uniforms made famous by the franchise’s lifeguards.
The actor also told Williams he would be welcome back on set anytime to “show them how things are done.”
As Amell handed him the jacket, the room broke into loud cheers and applause for the teen rescuer.
“A hero’s reception! To lifeguard Ryder Williams, thanks for reminding us what the red suit really stands for,” the show wrote in the caption.
“’Baywatch’ is all about the bravery and selflessness Ryder brought to the beach in Santa Cruz,” executive producer/showrunner Matt Nix told Variety.
“We’re honored to have a real-life hero with us on set.”
A photo posted afterwards showed Williams rocking his new gear standing among the rest of the cast of the show.
Lifeguard and co-creator of the original “Baywatch” TV series, Greg Bonann, said the show “has always celebrated the real men and women who dedicate themselves to protecting the lives of others.”
“16 year old rookie lifeguard Ryder Williams has just reminded all of us why that mission matters,” Bonnan said.
Despite the spotlight, Williams recently said the experience has only reinforced why he became a lifeguard.
“The experience has been amazing. It is awesome to get to come out and help people every day. I have learned so much about the beach and being able to help people and what it takes to be a lifeguard.”
The reboot of the popular TV series “Baywatch” will premier in early 2027.
