Mary McDonnell is set to join Fox’s upcoming “Baywatch” reboot in a recurring guest-starring role, according to multiple reports. McDonnell will play Gayle, described as the grandmother and mother figure in the story. The character is tied to the series’ main characters: Gayle is the mother of Stephen Amell’s protagonist, Hobie Buchannon, and also connected to Charlie (Jessica Belkin) through the family relationship. Both sources describe Gayle as a sophisticated woman with a wryly funny presence. They also say the character cares deeply for her family and supports them, even when her family is unsure about what to do next. The reports do not provide additional plot details beyond her family role, nor do they specify an episode count or release date. McDonnell previously earned major acting nominations, and her casting is presented as a addition to the reboot’s ensemble.