Nicole Scherzinger has joined the cast of ABC’s upcoming “Dirty Dancing” remake.
The former Pussycat Dolls frontwoman and “Dancing With the Stars” alum will play Penny, Johnny’s dance partner and part of the working-class entertainment staff at an early 1960’s Catskill Mountains resort. Penny, played by Cynthia Rhodes in the 1987 film starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, joins Johnny in enlisting Baby’s help and teaching her to dance.
Newcomer Colt Prattes and Abigail Breslin will play Johnny and Baby, respectively, in the remake produced by Lionsgate Television in association with Allison Shearmur Productions. “Mysteries of Laura” star Debra Messing will co-star as Marjorie Houseman, Baby’s mother.
The remake is executive produced by Allison Shearmur and Eleanor Bergstein, who wrote the screenplay for the original movie, with music from Adam Anders and Peer Astrom. Judy Cairo will also serve as producer.
Jessica Sharzer wrote the adaptation for “Dirty Dancing” and Wayne Blair will direct. Choreography is by “Hamilton’s” Andy Blankenbuehler, and Steven Altman serves as production designer.
Scherzinger is represented by CAA and Myman Greenspan Fineman Fox Rosenberg & Light LLP.