Jonathan Levine (“Longshot,” “50/50,” “Warm Bodies”) has been set to helm the direct sequel to beloved 1987 feature “Dirty Dancing” at Lionsgate ahead of the film’s sales launch at the Cannes market.
In the sequel, Jennifer Grey will reprise her iconic role of Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman as she returns to Kellerman’s during the 1990s. Once again, the sequel will be a coming-of-age romance centered on the experience of a young woman at the summer camp.
Baby’s own journey however will intertwine with this to create a multi-layered narrative, whilst the absence of Patrick Swayze’s Johnny will loom large over the story. Levine and Elizabeth Chomko penned the script and casting conversations are underway.
Grey may not be the only original film face to return as Levine tells Deadline: “We are about to talk to people and are exploring that [possibility].” He adds: “The most important thing for us was having Jennifer on board. She is an invaluable collaborator. We’re going to try to involve as many people from the original as is appropriate. We want to be respectful in every way.”
Filming aims to begin later this year for a release in 2024.
Source: Deadline
