Get ready to return to Kellerman’s! Lionsgate is moving forward with a sequel to the beloved 1987 classic, Dirty Dancing, with Jennifer Grey set to reprise her iconic role as Frances “Baby” Houseman. The studio announced on Tuesday that production is aiming to begin later this year.
Jennifer Grey’s Return and the Creative Team
Jennifer Grey will not only star but also executive produce the film. Joining her are producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, known for their work on The Hunger Games franchise. Kim Rosenstock (Dying for Sex) is penning the script, bringing a fresh perspective to the story. While Jonathan Levine previously attached to direct has stepped down, he will remain as an executive producer.
Jacobson and Simpson’s Color Force are currently producing The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, slated for release in 2026. They are also executive producers on Ryan Murphy’s upcoming FX series, Love Story: John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. Rosenstock’s credits include Only Murders in the Building and GLOW, showcasing her diverse writing talent.
A Nostalgic Trip Back to Kellerman’s
The original Dirty Dancing, released in 1987, captivated audiences with its story of Baby (Grey) falling in love with dance instructor Johnny Castle (the late Patrick Swayze) at a summer resort. The film was a massive success, grossing $214 million worldwide (equivalent to over $608 million today) and winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song with “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” The franchise has seen previous iterations, including a 2004 prequel, Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, a stage musical, and a 2017 TV remake.
Lionsgate’s Vision for the Sequel
Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed his excitement about the project: “Dirty Dancing remains as beloved today as it was upon its initial release, and we knew that a very special group of people would have to come together for fans to embrace a return to Kellerman’s. We are beyond thrilled to announce we have assembled the perfect team to carry this film forward in partnership with Jennifer Grey.”
Jennifer Grey herself shared her enthusiasm, stating, “The role of Baby has held a very deep and meaningful place in my heart… I’ve long wondered where we might find Baby years later and what her life might be like, but it’s taken time to assemble the kind of people that I felt could be entrusted to build on the legacy of the original film… and I’m excited to say that It looks like the wait will soon be over!”
Nina Jacobson added, “Dirty Dancing is that rare film that is as emotional, exhilarating and rebellious today as it was the year it was released. To be able to work with Jennifer Grey and Lionsgate on the sequel is a genuine joy.”
Meredith Wieck and Maria Ascanio will oversee the sequel for Lionsgate. Fans can expect a nostalgic yet fresh take on the classic story, designed for the big screen. For more information on upcoming film releases, check out The Hollywood Reporter.
