Patrick Swayze’s Widow Gives Director Kenny Ortega Seal Of Approval For ‘Dirty Dancing’ Reboot

While some “Dirty Dancing” fans can’t fathom the idea of Johnny and Baby as anyone other than the late Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, Lisa Niemi (Patrick’s widow) has given her seal of approval to the newly-announced reboot.

“Jennifer [Grey] and I have been talking and she’s been so supportive, as has Lisa Swayze and [producer] Eleanor Bernstein,” Kenny Ortega – who choreographed the original 1987 film and will direct the reboot – told Us Weekly at Wednesday’s “So You Think You Can Dance” finale in Los Angeles. “I couldn’t be more thankful for the outreach that has happened from the cast and crew members from the original movie. They’ve all said ‘Go, Ken!’”

While Kenny is excited about giving the film a modern touch, he admits it will be a challenge to find actors who can bring the characters to life as well as their beloved predecessors.

“Patrick and Jennifer brought so much, and the chemistry that they had with each other — I just want to find that match,” he told the mag.

As for a possible cameo by Jennifer Grey, Kenny said it’s being considered.

“If it’s organic, right and makes sense,” Kenny said, when asked if the original Baby and recent “Dancing with the Stars” champ would be seen in the new film. “I would love nothing more.”

As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Jennifer took to Twitter on Monday to express her excitement over the “Dirty Dancing” movie news.

“I love @Kennyortega and trust that he will do something special #DirtyDancingRemake,” Jennifer Tweeted on Monday night.

“Blown away by all of the love expressed for #DirtyDancing. Makes me want to see it again. So grateful to have been a part of it,” she later added.

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