Jennifer Grey, the actress who became an icon as “Baby” in the 1987 classic Dirty Dancing, was on the brink of a career explosion. But life had other plans. A tragic accident changed her course, forcing her to step away from Hollywood. Now, at 62, Grey reflects on the event that scarred her physically and emotionally and reshaped her life.
When Dirty Dancing was released in August 1987, it faced low expectations. With a modest budget, unknown cast, and little buzz, the film defied the odds, becoming a cultural sensation. Patrick Swayze, the male lead, rocketed to fame, becoming a sex symbol. For Grey, the journey took a different turn. Despite a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Frances “Baby” Houseman, she disappeared from the spotlight almost as quickly as she had arrived.
After years of silence, Jennifer recently opened up about the traumatic accident that changed her life. Born in New York in 1960 to actor Joel Grey, Jennifer grew up surrounded by the arts. She studied dance and acting, landing small roles and working as a waitress before Dirty Dancing launched her into fame. But just as the movie premiered, tragedy struck.
In the summer of 1987, Jennifer and her boyfriend, actor Matthew Broderick, were involved in a car accident while vacationing in Ireland. Broderick accidentally drove on the wrong side of the road, causing a head-on collision that killed a woman and her daughter in the other car. While Jennifer’s injuries were minor, the emotional toll was profound. Despite the success of Dirty Dancing, she couldn’t fully embrace it. “It didn’t feel right to be the toast of the town,” she said, reflecting on the deep emotional scars that lingered long after the crash.
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