Jennifer Grey, best known for her iconic role as “Baby” in the beloved film *Dirty Dancing*, seemed destined for stardom after the movie’s breakout success. Yet, an unforeseen tragedy drastically altered the trajectory of her career, pushing her out of the limelight and into a life shadowed by emotional trauma. At 62, Grey is finally opening up about the life-changing event that left deep scars and profoundly impacted her journey in Hollywood.
*Dirty Dancing* was a surprise hit when it debuted in August 1987. Despite its low budget, lack of big–name stars, and an unknown director, it quickly turned into a cultural phenomenon.
Grey’s co-star, Patrick Swayze, rose to superstardom with roles in blockbuster films like *Ghost* and *Donnie Darko*. However, Grey’s career took a much different path, one overshadowed by personal tragedy that would soon follow the movie’s release.
In a candid interview with *People Magazine*, Grey shared the harrowing details of a car accident that would forever change her life.
Before diving into the incident, it’s important to understand Grey’s early years. Born in 1960 in New York City to renowned actor Joel Grey, her passion for performing was sparked at a young age. She pursued acting after attending the prestigious Dalton School and honing her craft at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of Theatre. To support herself, Grey worked as a waitress while auditioning for roles, eventually landing commercials, including a memorable spot for Dr. Pepper.
Her career breakthrough came when she was cast as Frances “Baby” Houseman in *Dirty Dancing*, a role that made her an instant star and earned her a Golden Globe nomination. The film, loosely based on screenwriter Eleanor Bergstein’s own life, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
However, just days before the film’s release, Grey and her then–boyfriend, actor Matthew Broderick, were involved in a devastating car crash in Ireland. Broderick, mistakenly driving on the wrong side of the road, collided with another vehicle, tragically killing a mother and her daughter. Although Broderick faced charges of reckless driving, they were eventually dropped. Grey sustained only minor physical injuries, but the emotional toll was severe.
The accident occurred just as *Dirty Dancing* was about to take off, making it impossible for Grey to fully embrace the success she had worked so hard for. Grappling with survivor’s guilt, she found it difficult to enjoy her newfound fame. “I couldn’t celebrate the film when I was carrying so much grief,” she revealed to *The Daily Mirror*.
This emotional burden caused Grey to withdraw from the spotlight for several years.
In the 1990s, Grey tried to revive her acting career, but faced another hurdle after undergoing plastic surgery. The procedure drastically altered her appearance, leaving her almost unrecognizable. Reflecting on this decision, she once remarked, “I went into surgery as a famous actress, and came out as someone no one recognized. It felt like I had lost a part of myself.”
As a result, Grey’s once-promising career stalled, though she did find success later in 2010 when she won *Dancing with the Stars*. This victory not only reconnected her with fans but also reignited her passion for performing. “It was like I had been hiding for years, afraid of being judged. Winning *Dancing with the Stars* helped me rediscover the joy of being in the spotlight,” she explained.
Grey’s acting career saw a resurgence in 2018 with roles in the comedy series *Red Oaks* and the film *Untogether*. These projects marked her renewed commitment to her craft after years of emotional recovery.
Jennifer Grey’s story is a testament to resilience and reinvention. After facing life-altering trauma, she is once again embracing her love for performing and reclaiming her place in the entertainment world.
Feeling nostalgic? Revisit the unforgettable magic of *Dirty Dancing* and relive those cherished moments that made the film a timeless classic.
Share Jennifer Grey’s inspiring journey with friends on social media—they might be wondering, like so many of us, whatever happened to the captivating star of *Dirty Dancing*!