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Entertainment January 10, 2017
Abigail BreslinThe success of “La La Land” has got the makers of the new “Dirty Dancing” reboot singing a happy tune.
Hopes are high that a new TV movie remake of the classic musical will benefit from the “La La Land” inspired current enthusiasm for song and dance projects and be a big hit when it screens on ABC in May.
“La La Land” won a record seven Golden Globes, more than any film in history, including best actress and best actor for its stars, Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling.
After breaking box office records in limited release it is expanding to 1,515 theaters nationwide to cash in on the awards, acclaim and buzz.
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The original “Dirty Dancing” was a box office smash, earning over $213 million, and a best motion picture song Oscar for “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” It launched Patrick Swayze’s career, turning him into a Hollywood heartthrob, and provided Jennifer Grey’s most iconic role.
The worldwide success, however, did not translate into its 2004 follow-up, “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights,” which only earned $27 million.
Of course, timing is everything and with this latest reboot, Lionsgate, the company behind both “La La Land” and “Dirty Dancing” hope the reboot can capitalize on the success of both the Golden Globe winner and the original film’s 30th anniversary.
The company is also re-releasing the 1987 film in theaters on Jan. 29 and bringing out a special DVD, revamped with extra features.
The “Dirty Dancing” reboot won’t hit TV screens until May 24, but for now ENTITY looks at the actors and actresses preparing to breathe new life into this Eighties classic.
The “Scream Queens” star will be playing lead Baby, the role originated by Jennifer Grey. Back in March she shared a photograph to Instagram of her newly-dyed brunette tresses ahead of filming the upcoming reboot. She previously showed off her dancing skills – to comedic affect – in 2006’s “Little Miss Sunshine.”
Colte Prattes snagged the iconic role of Johnny Castle – Baby’s love interest. This will be a breakout acting role for Colte, who has previously appeared in P!nk’s music video for “Try.” He also danced with the star at the 2014 Grammy Awards and American Music Awards as well as on her The Truth About Love Tour.
“Modern Family” actress Sarah Hyland will be playing Baby’s ditzy older sister Lisa. She temporarily dyed her hair jet black for the comical role originally played by Jane Brucker.
Cynthia Rhodes via Instagram @penny_dirtydancing_rp, Nicole Scherzinger via Instagram @nicolescherzy
Nicole plays the role of Johnny’s dancer pal Penny, who requires rescuing from Baby’s father after a botched, $250 abortion. And the former The Pussycat Dolls member revealed to DailyMail.com that she almost didn’t take the role because of her family’s firm anti-abortion stance.
Her father is a bishop, and she revealed that her mother had her at 18. However, she eventually decided to play the key role – originated by Cynthia Rhodes – explaining, “But I was like, hopefully they can learn from you know, her ways, and I can be a positive influence.”
The “Will & Grace” star will be stepping in as Baby and Lisa’s mother, Marjorie Houseman. The role was originated by “Gilmore Girls” actress Kelly Bishop. Marjorie softens the edge of their strict father, Dr. Jake Houseman, who will be played by Bruce Greenwood.
Katey Sagal, Shane Harper, and Jennifer Lopez’s ex-boyfriend Casper Smart will also star in the upcoming reboot. “Dirty Dancing” will air on ABC on May 24.
