’Dirty Dancing’ Sequel Has Fans Noting Patrick Swayze’s Absence Amid ‘Lazy’ And ‘Cash Grab’ Claims
By Danielle Jennings on January 27, 2026 at 7:15 PM EST
“Dirty Dancing” is a beloved film that has entertained generations of audiences for almost 40 years, but despite its enduring quality, the response to an upcoming sequel has been met with a less than enthusiastic reaction from fans.
After initially being announced back in 2020, a sequel to the 1987 box-office smash is moving forward once again with the film’s Jennifer Grey. However, it's the obvious absence of central figure Patrick Swayze that has fans wishing that the classic dancing film would remain as it was.
‘Dirty Dancing’ Sequel Officially On The Move Again Following Delays
On Tuesday, January 27, it was confirmed that the sequel to “Dirty Dancing” is moving forward after being delayed since 2020. According to PEOPLE, Grey will reprise her role as Frances “Baby” Houseman in the sequel with Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson leading the way, both known for producing “Crazy Rich Asians” and “The Hunger Games.” Grey will also be on board as an executive producer.
Production is reportedly set to begin later this year, with a hopeful 2027 release date to commemorate the film’s 40th anniversary.
The film was the subject of a sequel of sorts courtesy of the 2004 offering “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights.” That film featured a cameo from Patrick Swayze as a dance instructor but followed an entirely new story and cast.
Jennifer Grey Speaks About Stepping Back Into The Role That Made Her A Star
Speaking about bringing the character of Baby back to the forefront, Grey noted how much the role means to her.
"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 said, per PEOPLE.
"I’ve long wondered where we might find Baby years later and what her life might be like, but it’s taken time to assemble the kind of people that I felt could be entrusted to build on the legacy of the original film … and I’m excited to say that it looks like the wait will soon be over," Grey added.
Fans Quickly Voiced Their Resistance To A Sequel Without Patrick Swayze
Fan reaction on social media, and in the comment sections of outlets reporting the news, shared an overwhelming disinterest in the upcoming project, and the bulk of their issues stem from the late Swayze being unable to be part of it.
“I’m sure that this is definitely meant for aging Gen X’rs and it will make some money. But…why make it now that Patrick Swayze is dead? It seems superfluous to do so now,” a Reddit user wrote.
“Too little too late. Without Swayze there's no point. Cash grab,” a comment posted underneath PEOPLE’s reporting read.
A collection of comments on Threads expressed a similar sentiment. “The movie worked because of Patrick Swayze. This will bomb,” one comment read. “Without Patrick, no thanks,” another user wrote. A third commenter added, “This won't work without Patrick.”
Swayze wasn’t the only thing that sparked a negative reaction, as the idea of a sequel at all sparked heavy criticism as well. “I have no doubt this will be terrible,” remarked a Redditor, as another added bluntly, “Lazy f-ckin Hollywood.”
“Please no. The original movie is wonderful, messy and full of heart. And it was cobbled together with main actors who hated each other, a minimal budget, a short shooting time and a bunch of mishaps on set. Anything they make now would more than likely be some overly glossy sad attempt at recapturing that magic,” another commenter expressed.
Grey Previously Shared That Swayze Cannot Be Replaced
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE back in November 2020, Grey spoke at length about the “Dirty Dancing” sequel and not attempting to replace her former co-star, who died in 2009 due to pancreatic cancer.
"All I can say is there is no replacing anyone who’s passed—you never try to repeat anything that’s magic like that," she told the outlet at the time. "You just go for something different."
‘Dirty Dancing’ Joins The Long List Of Hollywood Sequels
One of the biggest complaints from moviegoers, and even some actors, is the lack of original content being made in Hollywood, and adding “Dirty Dancing” to the list is another example of sequel fatigue.
The allure of sequels is that you have a built-in audience that cherishes the original, but what many Hollywood execs fail to understand is that the original is what fans love, but a sequel, which can often be more miss than hit, can tarnish a legacy.
Only time will tell if fans will still “have the time of their lives” when the “Dirty Dancing” sequel is released.
