In the wake of VMA pandemonium, sad news came out of Hollywood Monday when it was announced that the legendary Patrick Swayze had lost his battle with pancreatic cancer.
Although Patrick outlived his doctor’s estimate, and had previously admitted he was aware of his impending death, the situation is obviously quite sad - especially for us pop culture junkies who grew up on Dirty Dancing, Ghost and The Outsiders.
Who didn’t try to master the famous Baby-Johnny dance routine at the close of Dirty Dancing? What middle-aged woman didn’t dream of being Demi Moore during Ghost‘s clay scene? Though I was too young to understand the heat between Demi and Patrick and was much more concerned about the destruction of the clay pot-in-progress, my childhood self still managed to decide that Patrick was undoubtedly the man – kind of like a Ken doll, but better and more badass. (He was a ghost for heaven’s sake!)
The man was hardcore. He danced (attention guys everywhere: at least learn how to lead a girl around a dancefloor – regardless of what we say, we’re into it), he acted (sure, not an Academy-Award winner, but who gives a shit?), he sang (“She’s Like the Wind”!!!) and he exuded the sex appeal and charm that only Patrick Swayze could master.
And how many actors can boast the support of both sexes? Though they may mask it with contempt – likely stemming from jealousy since only Patrick could don such tight-fitting pants while making the iconic declaration, ”nobody puts baby in a corner” – men everywhere admire his obvious masculinity and straight-up wickedness. You can’t hate on The Swayze. It’s impossible.
So in tribute, I leave you with this – the most famous routine from one of the most famous movies set to one of the most famous songs. RIP, Patrick. I dedicate my repeated playing of the Dirty Dancing soundtrack to you.
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