Work begins on 'Dirty Dancing' remake, says report

Work is reportedly underway on a 'Dirty Dancing' remake.

Lionsgate studio chiefs have asked 'Uptown Girls' writer Julia Dahl to come up with a script for a new version of the 1987 classic dance movie, which starred Patrick Swayze as dance teacher Johnny Castle and Jennifer Grey as the spoilt, naive Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman.

The original movie earned $213.95m (€150.3m) worldwide when it was released in cinemas.

A sequel, 'Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights' – starring Diego Luna and Romola Garai – was released in 2004 but failed to impress audiences.

In addition, a successful spin-off musical has enjoyed successful stints in Australia, Germany and the UK.

No casting details have been announced, but it is already being speculated that 'High School Musical' stars Zac Efron and Ashley Tisdale, 'Step Up' star Channing Tatum and his wife Jenna Dewan will be considered for the roles.