Dirty Dancing is one of my all-time favorite films – I’ve likely seen it at least 50 times!
Every scene, every move, every song is ingrained in my memory. I thought I had seen and read everything about this enchanting movie – but recently, some deleted scenes have surfaced.
And if you pay close attention, the overlooked frames reveal something we all suspected…
Dirty Dancing is more than just a movie; it’s an experience, a perfect depiction of youthful love and undeniable chemistry.
Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey had an electric chemistry on screen, igniting sparks that made every dance, every glance, unforgettable. Their bond is why this film is, rightly so, a modern classic. No one moved like Patrick, and Jennifer brought “Baby” to life in a way that no one else ever could.
But here’s something you might not be aware of: there’s a deleted scene, one that many fans haven’t witnessed. It’s a moment that adds a new dimension to the story, enhancing the magic. Interested in discovering what’s been concealed all this time?
Deleted scene
A recently uncovered hidden gem from Dirty Dancing has emerged online, showcasing a lovely, intimate moment between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. This one-minute clip, posted by a YouTube channel named “Jamie Jones,” provides fans with a rare look at a scene that didn’t make it into the final version.
In this deleted scene, Johnny (portrayed by Patrick Swayze) instructs Baby (Jennifer Grey) on a dance routine for their significant performance at the Shelldrake.
Many fans recall the scene — or believe they do — but it’s not actually part of the film. In the description of the video, the uploader notes, “Production had to eliminate scenes due to time constraints, budget limitations, and to accommodate the memorable Mickey and Sylvia ‘Love is Strange’ scene that was included in the film.”
What’s truly heartwarming about this clip is that Patrick and Jennifer believed they were merely practicing, unaware that the camera was capturing their moments.
Patrick Swayze was undeniably a star, and in this rare, deleted scene, he wasn’t even performing. This was the essence of Swayze — moving gracefully, radiating joy, and showcasing his love for dance.
Discovered something enchanting.
It’s important to highlight that Patrick Swayze had been dancing since he was a toddler. With his mother operating a dance studio in Houston, he was immersed in the world of dance from a young age, which honed his skills and professionalism in the art.
The comments on the video reveal a lot about his influence. One viewer remarked, “It’s always such a pleasure to see Patrick Swayze dance. He moved with such beauty and ease. He was truly a natural.”
One fan perfectly captured the allure of this deleted scene, stating, “The fact that in this world Johnny had to take time out of his day like a real teacher to make a sign is hilarious to me for some reason lmao, and also the fact that Baby is wearing her cardigan over her outfit is just so fitting for her character. I adore this deleted scene; it conveys so much about both of their characters in such a brief moment.”
For those who cherished the chemistry between Patrick and Jennifer, the deleted scene uploaded by Jamie Jones provides a peek into their genuine charm together. The production team also fell in love with the warmth and playfulness they shared. It was evident they had discovered something special, but unfortunately, this delightful rehearsal moment was left behind.
There are multiple reasons why certain scenes are removed from films, such as time limitations, lack of relevance, quality problems, or an abandoned narrative thread. Financial considerations can also influence this decision.
Baby in her bra
The dance sequence featuring Patrick and Jennifer isn’t the only part that was omitted from the movie.
For instance, there’s a scene where Johnny dances with Baby while she’s in her bra. Although this moment was excluded from the theatrical release, it can be found among the deleted scenes in the special features of the 25th Anniversary Edition DVD.
In this scene, Baby performs an erotic dance with Johnny while dressed in her underwear.
The big lift was never practiced.
Choreographer Kenny Ortega utilized the genuine relationship between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey to amplify the chemistry between Johnny and Baby on screen.
“They both contributed so much every single day,” Ortega shared with People in 2017. “At times, it was about conflict; at other times, it was about love. There was an indescribable connection between them. They were like human fireworks.”
However, despite the fact that many dance sequences were meticulously choreographed and rehearsed, there was one surprising detail. Do you recall that big lift at the end? It was never practiced.
“I only performed it on the day it was filmed,” the actress disclosed in an interview with The Guardian. “I never rehearsed it, and I haven’t done it since.”
“I would never practice the lift — I was too frightened. The moment you see me do it in the film is the very first time I attempted it,” Grey explained to SELF regarding the iconic lift. She also mentioned: “I can’t understand how all those people who recreate it have the courage to leap into the arms of anyone other than Patrick Swayze.”
“Not about the sensuality”
Whether it’s an unanticipated dance move or a tender moment, these lost scenes remind us why we cherish Dirty Dancing so much.
In a conversation with AFI, Patrick Swayze expressed his views on the film’s lasting appeal. “To me, it has so much heart,” he remarked.
“It’s not about the sensuality; it’s truly about individuals striving to discover themselves—this young dance instructor feeling like he’s merely a product, and this young girl trying to understand who she is in a world full of limitations while having such a remarkable perspective on life.”
Reflecting on the chemistry between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey in Dirty Dancing, it’s evident that their connection infused the film with life in a way that continues to resonate today.
Their dynamic extended beyond just the dance moves; it encompassed the authentic bond they shared, making every moment feel genuine and heartfelt.
This chemistry truly shines in the deleted scenes, which reveal even more of their remarkable connection.
Let’s take a moment to honor Patrick Swayze, whose extraordinary talent and charisma left a lasting impression on cinema. He delivered unforgettable performances, and his legacy will always be cherished in our hearts.
Here’s to the enchantment of Dirty Dancing and to Patrick Swayze — a remarkable star who danced his way into our lives.
