Dirty Dancing (ABC 2017, Abigail Breslin, Nicole Scherzinger)

This TV musical version of 1980’s classic Dirty Dancing is a special three-hour filmed event that features the story from the beloved 1987 romantic drama and instant movie classic told from a fresh perspective, diving deeper into the iconic characters, showcasing their progression and tackling social themes like race, women’s rights and the socio-economic division in the country at that time.

Spending the summer at a Catskills resort with her family, Frances “Baby” Houseman falls in love with the camp’s dance instructor, Johnny Castle, and nothing is ever the same for anyone in the Houseman family. Modernized, updated versions of the memorable, favorite songs from the original film, including “Time of My Life,” “Love Man,” “Do You Love Me,” “Hungry Eyes,” “She’s Like the Wind,” teamed with well-known songs that are new to “Dirty Dancing,” such as “Fever” and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” are weaved into the storytelling and performed by the talented and versatile cast.

Viewers will discover what happens to Baby and Johnny after that summer and more about the supporting characters from the original film. This fresh reimagining explores the relationship between Jake and Marjorie Houseman, Lisa’s goals in life and uncovers a fully realized character in Neil, with plenty of surprises in store.

cast
Abigail Breslin as Baby
Beau “Casper” Smart as Billy Kotsecki
Billy Dee Williams as Tito
Bruce Greenwood as Jake Houseman
Colt Prattes as Johnny Castle
Debra Messing as Marjorie Houseman
J. Quinton Johnson as Marco
Katey Sagal as Vivian Pressman
Nicole Scherzinger as Penny
Sarah Hyland as Lisa Houseman
Shane Harper as Robbie Gould
Tony Roberts as Max Kellerman
Trevor Einhorn as Neil Kellerman

key behind the scenes crew
Adam Anders as Executive Producer
Allison Shearmur as Executive Producer
Jessica Sharzer as Writer
Wayne Blair as Director

show type
Musical, Drama, Movie of the Week

broadcast from
Wednesday 24 May 2017 at 8.00pm
1×180 minutes

network and production companies
ABC – Allison Shearmur Productions – Lionsgate Television