'Baywatch' star David Charvet opens up about depression after quitting Hollywood

'Baywatch' star David Charvet reveals depression and identity loss after leaving Hollywood to raise his own children

Baywatch star David Charvet has opened up about experiencing depression after stepping away from Hollywood to focus on raising his children.

The 54-year-old actor discussed the emotional challenges of leaving the entertainment industry during the October 22 episode of Fox’s Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test.

Charvet, who shares daughter Rain, 19, and son Shaya, 18, with his ex-wife Brooke Burke, said becoming a father influenced his decision to put his acting career on hold. He explained that his own childhood experiences shaped his determination to remain present in his children’s lives.

The actor revealed that his father left his mother before he was born, leaving him without a close relationship with his dad. He said the experience made him understand the importance of family bonds and motivated him to give his children the love and support he had missed growing up.

Charvet said he was travelling around the world for work when he decided he did not want his children to experience a similar absence. He subsequently stepped away from Hollywood and began rebuilding his life outside the spotlight.

However, the transition was difficult. “It was a very difficult first three years,” Charvet said, explaining that he went through a period of depression and felt he had lost his identity. He added that showing his children love and dedication remained his priority.

The actor is now returning to television through Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, marking his first TV appearance in approximately 20 years. Charvet said he was motivated to participate partly because his children had never seen him on television and he wanted them to witness him taking on the challenge.

He also revealed that training with his son helped him prepare for the competition, although he found the psychological challenges particularly demanding.

New episodes of Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test air Thursdays at 9pm ET on Fox.