The actress known for her role as “Baby” in the iconic film Dirty Dancing, Jennifer Grey, was anticipated to experience a considerable enhancement in her career opportunities. However, this was not the case. A devastating accident altered the course of her life, compelling her to exit the film industry permanently. After many years, the now sixty-two-year-old Jennifer Grey has finally opened up about the harrowing period that left her deeply traumatized.
Initially, Dirty Dancing was a low-budget production lacking a prominent director or star-studded cast. Yet, upon its release in theaters in August 1987, the cast and crew recognized that they had created something remarkable.
The lead actor, Patrick Swayze, quickly rose to fame, becoming a cultural icon and a hero to teenagers before transitioning to major films such as Donnie Darko and Ghost. In contrast, when the film debuted, Jennifer Grey was unwell and soon faded from the public eye. She vanished from the scene just as swiftly as she had emerged amidst the excitement and celebrations.
Recently, in an interview with People Magazine, she disclosed the details of the accident that irrevocably changed her life.
To understand the impact of this tragic event, it is essential to examine Jennifer Grey’s life prior to the summer of 1987. Born in New York in 1960, she began taking dance lessons at an early age, likely encouraged by her father, Joel Grey, who was an accomplished actor, director, photographer, dancer, and singer.
Jennifer attended the Dalton School to pursue her passion for dance and acting. After graduating in 1978, she sought acting opportunities and furthered her education at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater. However, her journey was not without challenges, as she had to work as a waitress to support herself financially.She successfully secured a few television commercials, including one for Dr. Pepper. Her debut in film came with the 1984 release of “Reckless.” A few years later, she achieved remarkable fame with her role as Frances “Baby” Houseman in “Dirty Dancing.” The beloved film’s storyline draws inspiration from the early life of screenwriter Eleanor Bergstein. Jennifer’s rise to prominence was swift, earning her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.
Tragic Incident
Regrettably, she was unable to fully embrace her newfound success.
Shortly before the film’s premiere in August 1987, Grey and her then-boyfriend Matthew Broderick were in Ireland.
During this time, Broderick was driving on the incorrect side of the road when he collided with another vehicle, resulting in a devastating car accident. Tragically, a woman and her daughter in the other car lost their lives instantly.
Ultimately, the charges against Broderick for reckless driving were dropped. In contrast, Jennifer Grey sustained only minor injuries, yet the emotional impact lingered.
A few days later, “Dirty Dancing” premiered, but Grey found it difficult to celebrate the film’s success.
Amidst profound grief and feelings of survivor’s guilt, it felt inappropriate to be celebrated as a rising star. “It didn’t feel good to be the toast of the town,” Grey reportedly expressed to the Daily Mirror. She reflected, “I feel like I’ve starved myself out of concern for what people may think of me. This is like having a delicious steak after 23 years on a diet,” she shared with People.
In 2018, Grey made a return to the spotlight she had previously distanced herself from, with plans to appear in the upcoming films “Untogether” and the comedy “Red Oaks.”Jennifer, it brings us great joy to witness your return to your vibrant and joyful self!
Is there anyone else who feels a compelling desire to revisit the year 1987 at this moment? Below, you can view the iconic scene from Dirty Dancing. Such wonderful memories!
We encourage you to share this news with your friends on Facebook. Like myself, they likely enjoyed Dirty Dancing and have pondered the fate of the stunning Jennifer Grey!
