Patrick Wayne Swayze, (born 18 August 1952), is a dancer, actor, singer and songwriter, memorable for his roles in the films Dirty Dancing (where he wrote and composed the hit song She's Like the Wind) (1987).
He wrote songs for Road House (1989), Ghost (1990), Black Dog (1998), and Donnie Darko (2001). He is also famous for the North and South miniseries.
The son of Jessie Wayne Swayze and choreographer and ballet school owner Patsy Yvonne Helen Karnes, he was born in Houston, Texas, United States. He formally trained at the Harkness and Joffrey Ballet Schools in New York City. His first professional appearance was as a dancer for Disney on Parade, then in the Broadway production of Grease, before his debut film role as Ace in Skatetown, U.S.A. (1979). He also appeared in the M*A*S*H episode Blood Brothers.
Patrick Swayze has received Golden Globe Award nominations for his roles in Dirty Dancing, Ghost and To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995).
Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004), a quasi-sequel to Dirty Dancing, had Swayze cast as a dance instructor in a cameo.
He is married to actress Lisa Niemi. His brother Don Swayze is also an actor.
Patrick Swayze is very spiritual. He is known for his faith in the healing power of crystals. A former Roman Catholic, he was reportedly interested in being a Buddhist. His favorite colors include blue, teal, burgundy, earthtones and faded black.
Patrick Swayze has also bred Arabian horses. His best-known horse was the late Tammen, a chestnut Arabian stallion.
Selected filmography
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