Fox’s new drama Rescue: HI-Surf is helping real open-water lifeguards get the designation they deserve by supporting the “Lifeguards First” campaign. The series is teaming up with the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) to host rallies and hold letter-writing campaigns to have open-water lifeguards designated as official emergency response providers.
“Our new action-drama Rescue: HI-Surf captures the incredible skill and bravery of open-water lifeguards, and every episode is inspired by the heroic, real-life first responders who save lives every day under seemingly impossible conditions,” stated Michael Thorn, President of FOX Television Network. “But through our work on this series, we were troubled to learn that despite their essential, courageous work, they are not considered Emergency First Responders in most places and don’t receive the recognition and benefits they deserve.”
USLA and Fox are hosting a rally on the Jersey Shore on August 24th and in Los Angeles on August 31st. Per Fox, the events will feature special appearances by the cast, shaved ice trucks, and photo opps. For more details, visit the official rhsfirstresponders.com website.
“The USLA is excited to collaborate with FOX in rallying Congressional Co-Sponsors for House Concurrent Resolution 41, which will recognize open water lifeguards as official emergency response providers,” said Peter Davis, President of the USLA. “This vital measure will ensure that lifeguards across the nation are acknowledged as first responders, granting them the respect and benefits commensurate with their critical role in public safety.”
Fox’s new drama stars Robbie Magasiva (Wentworth), Arielle Kebbel (Midnight, Texas), Adam Demos (Sex / Life), Kekoa Kekumano (The White Lotus), Alex Aiono (Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin), and Zoe Cipres (Roswell, New Mexico). Recurring guest stars include Sea Shimooka (3 Body Problem), Shawn Hatosy (Animal Kingdom), and Ian Anthony Dale (The Resident).
“Rescue: HI-Surf follows the personal and professional lives of the heavy-water lifeguards who patrol and protect the North Shore of O’ahu—the most famous and dangerous stretch of coastline in the world,” reads Fox’s synopsis. “Each episode will feature these dedicated, heroic and adrenaline-seeking first-responders saving lives in the difficult and often life-threatening conditions of Hawaii’s Seven Mile Miracle.”
Matt Kester created the series and serves as an executive producer and co-showrunner with John Wells and Daniele Nathanson. Wells directed the first two episodes, and Kester and Nathanson are writers. (Kester wrote the season premiere.)
The action drama kicks off with a two-night premiere on September 22nd and 23rd.
