It's official – the Dirty Dancing sequel is going ahead, and there's loads of new details.
Following on from the classic 1987 movie, the sequel will be directed by Jonathan Levine (Warm Bodies, Nine Perfect Strangers) and star original cast member Jennifer Grey, Deadline reports.
Grey will reprise her starring role as Frances 'Baby' Houseman in the sequel, set in the 1990s, three decades after the original movie.
It will follow Baby's own story as it entwines with another young woman's coming-of-age journey at Kellerman's summer camp.
Levine has co-written the sequel with Elizabeth Chomko, which is now confirmed to also be called Dirty Dancing. Casting is ongoing, but it's thought some of the original movie's stars may also return.
Related: Secret Cinema postpones Dirty Dancing dates to 2022
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"The most important thing for us was having Jennifer on board. She is an invaluable collaborator," Levine said.
"We’re going to try to involve as many people from the original as is appropriate. We want to be respectful in every way."
Levine said that preparations for the sequel will involve conversations with Patrick Swayze's estate, and that the movie will address his character Johnny's absence. Swayze passed away from cancer in 2009.
Related: Dirty Dancing star Jennifer Grey reveals the iconic lift nearly never happened
"Johnny is a part of Baby's journey in the story," Levine added in reference to the sequel’s storyline. "This film exists in a dialogue with the original. We want to introduce this story to a whole new generation.
"That said, Johnny's absence looms large over the story, so it’s a coming-of-age story but also a coming-of-age for Baby's character in a way."
Grey had previously confirmed that the character of Johnny would not be recast for the sequel.
Fans of the cult classic will also be treated to some of the original music from the movie including 'Hungry Eyes', as well as some '90s hip-hop.
Related: WWE's Brie Bella signs on for The Real Dirty Dancing reality show
Levine was originally set to just produce the sequel, but has decided to direct as well. Grey is also involved behind the scenes as an executive producer.
"While the original Dirty Dancing has always been one of my favourite films, I never imagined I would direct the sequel," he 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. We will tackle the assignment with sophistication, ambition and, above all, love."
Production is expected to start later this year for Dirty Dancing with a 2024 release date. Secret Cinema Presents Dirty Dancing opens in July in London, and tickets are available now.
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Jess is a freelance writer and editor with a passion for over-analysing everyone’s favourite movies and TV shows. As an English graduate from the University of York with an MA in Creative Writing, Jess worked as a magazine editor before turning freelance. Since then, Jess has written for outlets such as GQ, The Guardian, Inverse, Huff Post, Stylist, and Insider. She specialises in the representation of mental health, grief, and women in film. She’s also a major Marvel nerd and is writing a YA fantasy novel. LinkedIn
