If we thought the story of Baby (Jennifer Grey) and her legendary dance with Johnny (Patrick Swayze) was forever stuck in the '80s, it seems we're wrong.
After nearly four decades, Jennifer Grey will officially return in the sequel to the film "Dirty Dancing", which is expected to begin filming later this year.
The news was confirmed by Lionsgate, the American film and television studio, on January 27, immediately sparking nostalgia among fans of the iconic 1987 film. Grey will return to the role of Frances "Baby" Houseman, the character that made her an icon of romantic cinema, alongside Patrick Swayze, who passed away in 2009.
"The role of Baby has always held a very special place in my heart, as well as in the hearts of so many fans over the years," the 65-year-old actress said.
She adds that for a long time she has wondered where Baby might be today and what her life would look like, but only now has the right team been found to continue this story.
The sequel to "Dirty Dancing" will be produced by Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, known for their successes with "Hunger Games" and "Crazy Rich Asians", while the script will be written by Kim Rosenstock. Filming is expected to begin in 2026.
Producer Jacobson describes "Dirty Dancing" as one of those rare films that remains as emotional and rebellious today as it was when it was first released.
“To return to Kellerman's (the summer hotel where the film's story takes place) for another dance is a real privilege,” she said.
However, Grey has been clear: the new film will not attempt to recreate the legendary chemistry she had with Swayze.
"You can't replace someone who has passed away and you can't try to replicate something so magical. You just create something different," she previously stated.
Will there be iconic "dirty" dances, thrills and a new, more mature Baby? One thing is for sure: the wait for "Dirty Dancing" fans may be over.
