The 2017 TV remake of Dirty Dancing was met with overwhelmingly negative reactions, and for good reason. From casting choices to plot alterations, this rendition stumbled far from the beloved original, creating what many viewers felt was an almost unwatchable experience. Instead of capturing the magic of the 1987 classic, the remake amplified its weaknesses and introduced a host of new problems, leaving fans and critics alike scratching their heads in disbelief.
One of the most significant points of contention was the casting. Abigail Breslin, while a talented actress, was deemed miscast as Baby. Viewers noted her lack of dance experience and on-screen awkwardness, particularly during the iconic lift scene. The scene, instead of being romantic and breathtaking, became unintentionally comedic, with Breslin charging at her partner “like a linebacker.” This physical mismatch and perceived lack of grace stood in stark contrast to Jennifer Grey’s portrayal in the original, where Baby’s charm was undeniable.
Similarly, Colt Prattes as Johnny struggled to fill the shoes of Patrick Swayze. Prattes’ performance was described as devoid of charisma, with a “blank stare” that failed to convey the nuanced emotions and captivating presence that Swayze brought to the role. Even in intimate scenes, the chemistry was absent, making the romantic connection feel forced and unconvincing. The supporting cast also faced criticism, with Nicole Scherzinger as Penny being considered too old for the part, further distancing the remake from the original’s youthful energy.
Beyond casting, the storyline itself deviated in ways that detracted from the original’s charm. The introduction of a subplot focused on Baby’s parents was widely criticized as pointless and unnecessary, diluting the central romance and dance narrative. Changes to Vivian Pressman’s character, making her divorced rather than in a sham marriage, also weakened a compelling element of the original’s plot. Even the antagonist, Neil Kellerman, was portrayed as less odious, diminishing the stakes and conflicts that drove the story forward in the original movie.
In conclusion, the Dirty Dancing TV show 2017 failed to recapture the spirit and appeal of its predecessor. Poor casting choices, a lack of chemistry between the leads, and unnecessary plot alterations resulted in a remake that was, in the words of many viewers, “shit.” It stands as a stark reminder that some classics are best left untouched, and that charisma and compelling storytelling are irreplaceable, regardless of abs or modern updates.
