Mario Lopez has been cast in Fox’s “Grease: Live,” the network announced Thursday.
Lopez will play Vince Fontaine, the host of the teen dance show “National Bandstand.” Edd Byrnes played the role in the 1978 film.
He will join previously announced cast members that include: Julianne Hough as Sandy; Aaron Tveit as Danny; Vanessa Hudgens as Rizzo; Carlos Pena Vega as Kenickie; Keke Palmer as Marty; Carly Rae Jepsen as Frenchy; Kether Donohue as Jan; David Del Rio as Putzie; and Jessie J, who will open the live event with a performance of a brand-new version of “Grease (Is the Word).”
In the live special, the beginning of senior year means the end of Danny and Sandy’s summer romance until Sandy unexpectedly transfers to Danny’s high school. With their friends pulling them in different directions, it’s up to Danny and Sandy to stay hopelessly devoted as they make their way from Rydell High to a new frontier.
Lopez is best known for his role on the classic teen sitcom “Saved by The Bell,” but most recently took a spot on the entertainment news show “Extra”, as well as host of the national Clear Channel radio program “On With Mario Lopez.”
He re-enterd the public eye when danced his way to the finals in the third season of “Dancing with the Stars”. Shortly after, in summer 2009, Lopez successfully completed his first run on Broadway.
“Grease: Live” will air Jan. 31 at 7 p.m./6c.