Olivia Dunne Shares Her Hollywood Audition Journey from Gymnastics to Baywatch
Former LSU gymnast and social media sensation Olivia Dunne has opened up about her initial Hollywood setback and subsequent success. The 23-year-old recently revealed that she once auditioned for HBO's acclaimed series The White Lotus but did not secure the role. Despite this early disappointment, Dunne remained steadfast in her pursuit of acting, ultimately landing a significant part in the upcoming Baywatch reboot.
From Gymnastics Arena to Audition Room
Dunne disclosed that her audition was for the fourth season of The White Lotus. She admitted to feeling nervous initially, as it was a stark departure from her gymnastics background. However, she credited her experience performing in front of massive crowds as a gymnast for helping her stay calm and composed during the audition process. Over time, she continued to attend auditions, diligently working to enhance her acting skills, which has now culminated in a major television role.
Overcoming Nerves with Gymnastics Experience
In an interview with Boardroom, Dunne described her first audition as vastly different from anything she had previously encountered. She expressed concerns about forgetting lines and performing in front of casting directors. Yet, she drew confidence from her gymnastics career, reminding herself that she had already faced large audiences. This mindset allowed her to tackle the challenging moment effectively.
Dunne also reflected on how performing gymnastics in front of thousands sometimes felt easier than acting in a quiet room. Nevertheless, she approached the audition with determination, treating it as a valuable learning experience rather than a failure. This perspective motivated her to persist in her acting endeavors.
Securing a Role in Baywatch Reboot
Following her initial audition, Dunne participated in numerous other auditions, many of which were conducted online. She dedicated time to learning scripts and gaining insights into the acting industry. Her perseverance paid off when she was cast in the Fox reboot of Baywatch, where she will portray a junior lifeguard named Grace.
The show features a star-studded cast including Stephen Amell and Brooks Nader. Dunne has already shared behind-the-scenes glimpses on her social media accounts, including photos of herself in the iconic Baywatch red swimsuit, generating excitement among her followers.
Future Plans and Career Focus
Looking ahead, Dunne mentioned the possibility of returning to gymnastics. The girlfriend of MLB star Paul Skenes retired from gymnastics in April 2025 at age 22 due to multiple injuries. For now, she is fully committed to her acting career, expressing enthusiasm for this new chapter and the opportunities it brings.
