Patrick Swayze
Details
- Date of Birth:
- August 18, 1952
- Hometown:
- Houston
Bio:
Patrick Swayze (born Patrick Wayne Swayze on August 18, 1952 in Houston, Texas) was an American actor, dancer and singer-songwriter. Patrick grew up in the Houston suburbs acting in school plays and crafting his dance skills. In 1972, he moved to NYC to attend the prestigious Harkness Ballet and Joffrey Ballet schools. After dancing in Disney parades, he made his film debut in Skatetown, USA in 1979. After starring in films like The Outsiders and Red Dawn, his real breakthrough came with the iconic Dirty Dancing, in which he played a camp dance instructor who falls for a camper; he received a Golden Globe for the role. From there, he racked up roles in huge hits like Road House and Point Break. His biggest feature was Ghost, in 1990, in which he played a man from beyond the grave trying to protect his girlfriend (Demi Moore) from harm. Patrick was also a talented singer-songwriter, penning “She’s Like the Wind” for the Dirty Dancing soundtrack.
Best Known For:
Patrick is best known as the actor who portrayed Johnny Castle in Dirty Dancing and Sam in Ghost.
Personal Life:
Patrick married Lisa Niemi in 1975, after first meeting in dance class in 1970. Aside from his career in entertainment, Patrick was a skilled football player. He enjoyed flying planes, as well. Patrick passed away on September 14, 2009 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
