Despite being a low-budget movie with no big actors or renowned director, Dirty Dancing achieved enormous success upon its release in August 1987.
While Patrick Swayze, the male lead, became an instant teen idol and sex symbol, Jennifer Grey, who played ‘Baby,’ had a different fate awaiting her.
Born in 1960 in New York, Jennifer Grey’s father, Joel Gray, was involved in the entertainment industry. She started dance lessons early and pursued acting after attending the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater.
Her breakthrough came with the iconic role of Frances “Baby” Houseman in Dirty Dancing, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
Shortly before the movie’s premiere, Grey was in a devastating car accident while in Ireland with her then-boyfriend, Matthew Broderick. Broderick was driving on the wrong side of the road, leading to a collision with another vehicle, resulting in the deaths of a mother and her daughter. Grey suffered physical injuries but was plagued with mental scars and survivor’s guilt.
Although Dirty Dancing was a hit, Grey couldn’t enjoy her success due to the juxtaposition of the tragedy and her newfound fame. Survivor’s guilt took a toll on her mental well-being, affecting her ambition and happiness.
In the early ’90s, Grey disappeared from the public eye, struggling with the aftermath of the accident. She underwent plastic surgery that drastically changed her appearance, leading to feelings of anonymity and invisibility. Her career became on-and-off in Hollywood.
Grey regained her confidence and passion for acting, winning the TV show ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in 2010. Her comeback brought her back into the mainstream media, and she became a fan favorite once again. She emphasized the importance of reclaiming her identity and finding joy in her work.
In 2018, Jennifer Grey made further strides towards reclaiming her place in the limelight. She appeared in ‘Untogether’ and a new comedy titled ‘Red Oaks,’ marking her return to the industry she had stepped away from.
The unforgettable scene from Dirty Dancing evokes nostalgia and brings back fantastic memories for many fans. Jennifer Grey’s journey reminds us that despite life’s challenges, resilience and passion can lead to a triumphant return.
Let your friends on Facebook know about Jennifer Grey’s inspiring story and her return to the spotlight after overcoming adversity. Dirty Dancing fans will appreciate this heartwarming journey of a once-famous actress who found her way back to happiness.