Patrick Swayze
In 1987, Swayze played dance instructor Johnny Castle in the sleeper hit 'Dirty Dancing,' transforming him from a working actor into a romantic-lead heartthrob. The film's success and his on-screen charisma made him a defining star of the era. He followed it with 'Ghost' (1990), which became one of the highest-grossing films of its year.
A Dancer First
Swayze was born in Houston to a choreographer mother and trained extensively in dance and gymnastics. That background gave his most famous roles their distinctive physical grace.
The Romantic Lead
'Dirty Dancing' and 'Ghost' made Swayze one of the biggest romantic stars of his generation. His blend of toughness and tenderness defined a new kind of leading man.
Courage and Legacy
Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2008, Swayze continued working and shared his fight publicly. He died in 2009 at 57, remembered as a beloved performer and devoted husband.
Career Timeline
- 1952Born in Houston, Texas
- 1975Marries Lisa Niemi
- 1979Film debut in 'Skatetown, U.S.A.'
- 1983Appears in 'The Outsiders'
- 1987Breakthrough lead in 'Dirty Dancing'
- 1989Action hit 'Road House'
- 1990Stars in blockbuster 'Ghost'
- 1991Plays surfer-robber Bodhi in 'Point Break'
- 1997Receives a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- 2008Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
- 2009Dies at age 57 in California
Biggest Hits
- People magazine named Swayze its 'Sexiest Man Alive' in 1991.
- He was married to Lisa Niemi for 34 years, from 1975 until his death in 2009.
Portrait: Conny Liegl · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons