**Paul Skenes Praises Girlfriend Livvy Dunne Ahead of Acting Debut in Baywatch Reboot**
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During the 2026 MLB All-Star Red Carpet Show held on 14 July, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes spoke enthusiastically about his girlfriend, Livvy Dunne, who is set to make her acting debut in the much-anticipated Baywatch reboot. The couple, who have been together for three years, shared moments on the red carpet at the event in Philadelphia, showcasing their strong bond and mutual support.
Skenes, 24, expressed his eagerness to see Dunne’s performance in the Fox series, a modern update of the iconic 1990s television show that chronicled the lives of lifeguards on Los Angeles beaches. “I haven’t seen it yet, but I’m excited to watch. It’s going to be cool,” Skenes shared during an interview with the MLB Network. His pride in Dunne’s accomplishments was evident as he mentioned, “She’s loving it, so that’s all that matters.”
Dunne, who is 23, confirmed that she has closed the chapter on her gymnastics career, having stepped away from the sport in April 2025. When asked about the possibility of returning to gymnastics, she stated, “I’ve been loving that [acting]. It’s a creative outlet for me, and I really enjoyed it.” This transition from gymnastics to acting marks a significant change in her professional journey, highlighting her desire to explore new creative avenues.
In the upcoming Baywatch spinoff, Dunne takes on the role of Grace, a lively junior lifeguard, bringing a sense of enthusiasm to the character. The cast also includes fellow actors such as Brooks Nader, who plays Selene, a sharp-tongued lifeguard captain, and Stephen Amell, taking on the role of Captain Hobie Buchannon. The series promises to offer fresh narratives while continuing the legacy of the original show.
Prior to landing this role, Dunne had been proactive in pursuing acting opportunities for some time. She acknowledged in an interview that her focus had largely been on gymnastics while at Louisiana State University, stating, “Sports are your top priority when you’re a student-athlete at school.” Now that she has graduated, she is keen to dedicate herself to the performing arts, embracing her passion for acting.
Last year, Dunne hinted at her aspirations to delve into acting during the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit launch party. “Stay tuned for more on-screen work from me,” she teased, signalling her intent to make waves in the entertainment industry. Since then, she has embraced her role in Baywatch, even sharing glimpses of her preparation on social media, such as a humorous post where she quipped, “I’m not a lifeguard, but I play one on tv.”
Dunne’s enthusiasm for her new career path is matched by Skenes’ unwavering support. The couple, both celebrated for their athletic talents, continue to inspire each other as they pursue their respective ambitions. While Skenes is focused on his baseball career with the Pirates, he also takes pride in Dunne’s achievements, showcasing a partnership built on admiration and encouragement.
As the release date for Baywatch approaches, fans of both Dunne and the original series are eager to see how the reboot reimagines the beloved classic. The chemistry between Dunne and Skenes at public events further emphasises their shared commitment to personal and professional growth, making them one of the notable couples to watch in the world of sports and entertainment.
In a rapidly changing landscape where many athletes transition to new career paths, Dunne’s successful shift from gymnast to actress serves as an inspiration to others. Her story exemplifies the drive and determination it takes to redefine oneself, and with the backing of Skenes, she appears poised to make a significant impact in her new role. The public eagerly awaits not just Dunne’s debut but also the prospect of more dynamic performances from her in the future.