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Dirty Dancing sequel won't try to replace Patrick Swayze

Photo credit: Snap/Shutterstock
Photo credit: Snap/Shutterstock

Dirty Dancing's Jennifer Grey has weighed in on the upcoming sequel and the legacy of original co-star Patrick Swayze, who passed away in 2009.

Grey played the role of Frances 'Baby' Houseman in the 1987 film set in a resort in the Catskills and touching upon themes of social class and reproductive health.

In a recent interview, Grey has reiterated that the role played by Swayze would not be recast.

Photo credit: Snap/Shutterstock
Photo credit: Snap/Shutterstock

"What happened happened, and that will never happen again. There will never be another Johnny. There will never be another Patrick," Grey told Entertainment Weekly.

"This sequel has got to be its own standalone piece. It's very tricky."

In the coming-of-age dance drama, Baby meets Swayze's dance instructor Johnny Castle while on holiday with her family. Coming from different backgrounds, the two hit it off while rehearsing for a choreography culminating in the film's famous lift.

Photo credit: Lionsgate
Photo credit: Lionsgate

The actress was tight-lipped about any plot details, though she confirmed Baby will return to Kellerman's, the upscale lodge where the first chapter takes place.

"I can't tell you much, sadly, but I will tell you that it will involve Baby. It will involve Kellerman's. There will be music. Unless there's a lot of CGI, Baby's going to be a little older," Grey said. "It's going to be Kellerman's, music, dancing, love story, romance. I'm just so super committed and invested in making it a fresh [take]."

Earlier this year, it was announced that the 1990-set follow-up will be directed by Nine Perfect Strangers' Jonathan Levine. The new film will see Baby's story being intertwined with that of a younger guest at Kellerman's summer camp.

Production is expected to start later this year for Dirty Dancing with a February 9, 2024 release date. Secret Cinema Presents Dirty Dancing opens in July in London, and tickets are available now.


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