Jennifer Grey, born on March 26, 1960, is a highly esteemed American actress known for her versatile performances across film and television. She made her debut in the film industry with her role in “Reckless” (1984), and swiftly rose to prominence with her memorable portrayal in the iconic teen comedy “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986). However, it was her captivating performance as Frances “Baby” Houseman in the romantic drama “Dirty Dancing” (1987) that catapulted her to international stardom, earning her a nomination for the Golden Globe Award.
Throughout her career, Grey has showcased her talent in a variety of feature films, including “Red Dawn” (1984), “The Cotton Club” (1984), “Bloodhounds of Broadway” (1989), “Bounce” (2000), “Redbelt” (2008), “The Wind Rises” (2013), “In Your Eyes” (2014), “Duck Duck Goose” (2018), and “Bittersweet Symphony” (2019).
In addition to her film work, Grey has made notable appearances on television, starring in made-for-TV films such as “Murder in Mississippi” (1990), “Criminal Justice” (1990), and “If the Shoe Fits” (1990) as Kelly Carter / Prudence. She also portrayed herself in the series “It’s Like, You Know…” (1999–2001), claimed victory in season eleven of the dance competition series “Dancing with the Stars” (2010), and showcased her comedic chops as Judy Meyers in the Amazon Prime Video comedy “Red Oaks” (2014–2017).
Furthermore, Grey has lent her voice talents to both film and television projects, contributing her voice to characters in the 2018 film “Duck Duck Goose” and the animated television series “Phineas and Ferb” (2008–2014).
Early life
Jennifer Grey was born in New York City on March 26, 1960. Her parents are Joel Grey, a stage and film actor who has won an Academy Award, and Jo Wilder, née Brower, a former actress and singer. Mickey Katz was a musician and comedian who was her paternal grandfather. Grey’s parents were of Jewish descent.
Grey studied acting and dance at the Dalton institution, a prestigious institution in Manhattan, where she also made the acquaintance of actress Tracy Pollan, who would become her best friend. Grey began her two-year acting study at Manhattan’s Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre after graduating in 1978. She worked as a waiter to support herself as she waited for parts.
Career
Jennifer Grey made her commercial debut at the age of 19 in an advertisement for Dr Pepper before stepping into the film industry with a small role in “Reckless” (1984). She also appeared in a minor role in Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Cotton Club” (1984) and starred in the war film “Red Dawn” the same year. In 1985, she featured in John Badham’s project “American Flyers.”
Grey’s breakthrough came in 1986 when she portrayed the role of Jeannie Bueller in the John Hughes comedy “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” alongside Matthew Broderick. The film garnered commercial success and received positive critical acclaim.
The following year, Grey reunited with Patrick Swayze, her co-star from “Red Dawn,” to play Frances “Baby” Houseman in the iconic romantic drama “Dirty Dancing.” The film became a surprise hit, achieving cult status and earning Grey a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.
Despite the success of “Dirty Dancing,” Grey felt that her appearance might limit her future roles, leading her to undergo two rhinoplasty procedures in the early 1990s. However, the second operation resulted in a more extensive change than expected, significantly altering her appearance and affecting her career.
Throughout her career, Grey has appeared in various television shows and movies, including “Friends,” “Bounce,” “John from Cincinnati,” and “House.” She also won season eleven of “Dancing with the Stars” alongside her partner Derek Hough in 2010, becoming the oldest female winner in the competition’s history.
In addition to her acting career, Grey has voiced characters in films such as “The Wind Rises” and portrayed Judy Meyers in the series “Red Oaks” from 2014 to 2017. She also published her memoir, “Out of the Corner,” in May 2022.
Personal life
On August 5, 1987, Jennifer Grey experienced severe whiplash in a car accident while vacationing in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, with actor Matthew Broderick, with whom she had been dating discreetly during the filming of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” The collision, which made their relationship public, happened when Broderick, driving a rented BMW, veered into the wrong lane and collided head-on with a Volvo, resulting in the tragic deaths of Margaret Doherty, 63, and Anna Gallagher, 28. Broderick was convicted of careless driving and fined $175. Despite the release of “Dirty Dancing” shortly after the crash, which propelled Grey to fame, she struggled to enjoy the film’s success due to her grief and survivor’s guilt, leading her to take a break from acting for some time.
Grey has been romantically involved with actors Michael J. Fox, Johnny Depp, William Baldwin, and George Stephanopoulos, then-aide to President Clinton. She married actor/director Clark Gregg on July 21, 2001, and they have a daughter. The couple appeared together in the Lifetime movie “The Road to Christmas” in 2006. However, they announced their amicable separation in January 2020, and their divorce was finalized on February 16, 2021.
In September 2015, Grey revealed in a profile with Jewish Journal that she had reconnected with Judaism, expressing her love for being Jewish, particularly influenced by her daughter’s bat mitzvah. She emphasized her growing connection to her Jewish identity.
Before her appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2010, Grey underwent a physical examination to ensure her fitness for the competition and sought treatment for chronic neck issues stemming from the car accident decades earlier. Her surgeon discovered a cancerous nodule on her thyroid in 2009, which was successfully removed, leading Grey to believe she was cancer-free.
In January 2017, Grey participated in the Los Angeles 2017 Women’s March, showcasing her commitment to social activism.
Jennifer Grey husband
Clark Gregg, well-known for his appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is Grey’s current spouse. July 21, 2001, saw the marriage of Grey and Clark. Their only kid is a girl. Stella is the name of Jennifer Grey’s daughter. Her birthday is December 3, 2001.
Body measurements (Height and Weight)
Jennifer Grey’s 34-24-32 inch figure is incredibly hot. Her height is 5 feet 3 inches, and her weight is 50 kilos, or 110 pounds.
She has a slender body type and wears a dress size 2 in US measurements. While Jennifer has brown eyes, she has dark brown hair.
Jennifer Grey net worth
Jennifer Grey, the American actress renowned for her roles in iconic movies like “Dirty Dancing” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” boasts a net worth of $10 million. With over 40 films and television appearances under her belt, Grey has established herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment realm. Despite a prolonged break from acting, Grey’s diverse talents and endeavors have led to her significant financial success. Through her sustained involvement in the industry, endorsements, and ventures beyond acting, Grey has solidified her financial position within the entertainment landscape.
Profile Summery
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Date of Birth | March 26, 1960 |
Age | 60 years old |
Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
Sun Sign | Aries |
Nationality | American |
Weight | 50 kilograms (110 lbs) |
Height | 5 feet 3 inches (160 centimeters) |
Body Measurements | 34-24-32 inches |
Bra Size | 34B |
Body Type | Slim |
Dress Size | 2 (US) |
Hair Color | Dark brown |
Eye Color | Brown |
Net Worth | $10 million |
FAQs
Here are some of the most asked questions about the celebrity.
Is Jennifer Grey still alive?
Yes, she is.
How old is Jennifer Grey now?
The actress is currently 60 years old. She was born on 26th March in 1960.
Did Jennifer Grey win Dancing with the Stars?
Yes, the celebrity won the 2010 edition of Dancing with the Stars.
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