A California rookie lifeguard, who risked his life to save a 10-year-old drowning boy, received a special gift from the “Baywatch” TV show for his incredible bravery.
Ryder Williams became an overnight hero after pulling Nathaniel Rai from the pounding surf at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz on July 25 — a dramatic rescue that later earned praise from President Trump, who announced the teen will receive a high civilian honor.
The young lifeguard’s daring ocean rescue not only captured the attention of the president but Hollywood too. Willams and his parents were invited on the set of the upcoming Fox TV series on the last day of production on Thursday to receive a heartwarming gift.
A video shared on the show’s Instagram, showed actor Stephen Amell praising Ryder for being “extraordinarily brave.”
He then hands Williams one of his very own red “Baywatch” crew jackets, famously worn by the lifeguards on the show.
Amell also told the young hero he’s welcome to come and visit the set anytime to “show them how things are done.”
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When Amell handed over the jacket the whole room erupted in cheers and applause for Williams.
“A hero’s reception! To lifeguard Ryder Williams, thanks for reminding us what the red suit really stands for,” the caption read.
“’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.
