Baywatch Babes: Erika Eleniak (Shauni McClain)

Erika Eleniak (Shauni McClain)

Erika Eleniak was the original female lead of Baywatch, appearing from the pilot episode through the beginning of season 3. As Shauni McClain, she began the series as a rookie lifeguard who had to overcome her initial fears of the ocean under the mentorship of veteran guards.

Her storyline was heavily focused on her developing romance with fellow lifeguard Eddie Kramer, a relationship that eventually led to the couple’s marriage and departure for Australia. Decades later, Eleniak is set to reprise her role as Shauni, now a Santa Monica city councilwoman, in the upcoming 2026 series reboot.