The long-awaited sequel to the iconic 1987 film, “Dirty Dancing,” is officially moving forward, with production set to begin later this year. Lionsgate has enlisted the talents of producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, known for their work on “Hunger Games” and “Crazy Rich Asians,” to bring this project to life. Original star Jennifer Grey will reprise her role as Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman and is also on board as an executive producer.
As the film gears up for production, Jonathan Levine will join Grey as an executive producer. The script will be penned by Kim Rosenstock, an Emmy and Golden Globe nominee, who recently won the 2025 Humanitas Prize for her work on “Dying for Sex.”
In a statement, Adam Fogelson, chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed enthusiasm for the project. He stated, “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.” Fogelson emphasized the excitement surrounding the collaboration with Grey, Jacobson, and Simpson, asserting that they are the ideal team to ensure the film resonates with both loyal audiences and newcomers.
Grey shared her personal connection to the character, saying, “The role of Baby has held a very deep and meaningful place in my heart, as it has in the hearts of so many fans over the years.” She expressed her eagerness to explore Baby’s life years later and acknowledged the time it took to assemble a team capable of honoring the original film’s legacy. “I’m excited to say that it looks like the wait will soon be over!” she added.
Jacobson and Simpson are presently involved in producing “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,” alongside their role as executive producers for the upcoming film “Love Story: John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.” Their extensive experience in producing successful films positions them well for the challenges ahead.
As anticipation builds for the sequel, fans of the original “Dirty Dancing” will soon have the opportunity to revisit the world of Kellerman’s. The film promises to capture the magic, music, and emotion that made the original a classic, aiming for a theatrical release that celebrates nostalgia while inviting new audiences to experience its charm.
