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Jennifer Grey Provides Update on ‘Dirty Dancing’ Sequel

Photo Credit: cemeteryschild / MovieStillsDB
Photo Credit: cemeteryschild / MovieStillsDB

Nobody puts “Baby” in a corner, and, after over 30 years, she’s set to return to the big screen! A Dirty Dancing (1987) sequel was announced four years ago, but little else has been revealed about the project. Recently, Jennifer Grey gave an update on the film’s status – and it appears fans will have to wait a little longer before they can have the time of their life.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

Still from 'Dirty Dancing'
Dirty Dancing, 1987. (Photo Credit: murraymomo / Great American Films Limited Partnership / Vestron Pictures / MovieStillsDB)

The original Dirty Dancing is a romantic drama set in the early 1960s. It follows a young Frances “Baby” Houseman, portrayed by Jennifer Grey, who, while on vacation with her family in the Catskills, becomes enamored with the talented Johnny Castle, played by Patrick Swayze.

The film focuses on Baby’s transformation as she both learns to dance and falls in love with Castle, all while navigating the class differences and personal challenges they face. It was an unexpected box office hit, becoming a worldwide cultural phenomenon. While some critics dismissed the movie as a lightweight romance, many praised its dance sequences, nostalgic appeal and deeper themes of class and self-discovery.

Over the years, Dirty Dancing has gained a devoted fanbase, and it’s now considered a classic of 1980s cinema. Naturally, it was only a matter of time before someone thought to create a sequel.

Announcing a Dirty Dancing sequel

Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey as Johnny Castle and Frances "Baby" Houseman in 'Dirty Dancing'
Dirty Dancing, 1987. (Photo Credit: murraymomo / Great American Films Limited Partnership / Vestron Pictures / MovieStillsDB)

While it was a long time coming, Lionsgate officially announced a Dirty Dancing sequel back in 2020. As it had been over 30 years since the release of the original, excitement around the project grew quickly.

There’s no Dirty Dancing without Baby, and it was announced that not only was Jennifer Grey reprising her role, but she was to executive produce the movie, as well. Sadly, Patrick Swayze died in 2009, but reports stated the filmmakers were discussing with his estate on how to incorporate the late actor into the feature.

Jonathan Levine was announced as the sequel’s director. He gave a statement back in May of 2022, expressing his excitement over being involved in the project.

“While the original Dirty Dancing has always been one of my favorite films, I never imagined I would direct the sequel,” Levine explained. “Through co-writing it, I fell in love with the characters (new and old), the world of 1990s Catskills New York, and the music, which will range from songs from the original movie to ‘90s hip-hop. I can’t wait to collaborate with Jennifer to bring this beautiful story of summer and romance and dancing to a generation of new fans.

“And to the longtime ones, I promise we will not ruin your childhood,” he added. “We will tackle the assignment with sophistication, ambition, and, above all, love.”

Why the delay?

Jennifer Grey standing on a red carpet
Jennifer Grey attending the special presentation of A Real Pain during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at the Royal Festival Hall in London, United Kingdom, 2024. (Photo Credit: Wiktor Szymanowicz / Future Publishing / Getty Images)

It’s been four years since the sequel was first announced, and fans are anxious to know where the film stands. Originally, it was slated for release in 2024, but Lionsgate ultimately pushed the date back, due to the strikes that took place in 2023. Since then, little has been said of the sequel’s progress.

However, Jennfer Grey recently provided an update while attending the 68th BFI London Film Festival. Speaking with reporters, she said, “I can’t tell you much about Dirty Dancing as I’m not going to make promises. I’m just waiting for them to really nail it down as it has to be right.”

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While we’re excited for the sequel to finally be released, what we really want to know is if they’ll recreate the iconic dance scene.

Samantha Franco

Samantha Franco is a Freelance Content Writer who received her Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Guelph, and her Master of Arts degree in history from the University of Western Ontario. Her research focused on Victorian, medical, and epidemiological history with a focus on childhood diseases. Stepping away from her academic career, Samantha previously worked as a Heritage Researcher and now writes content for multiple sites covering an array of historical topics.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys reading, knitting, and hanging out with her dog, Chowder!

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