Patrick Swayze (born August 18, 1952) is an American dancer, actor, singer and songwriter, memorable for his roles in the popular films Dirty Dancing (where he wrote and composed the hit song She's Like the Wind) (1987) and Ghost (1990). He also appeared in Road House (1989), Black Dog (1998), and Donnie Darko (2001). He is also famous for the North and South miniseries.
The son of Jesse Wayne Swayze and choreographer and ballet school owner Patricia Yvonne Helen Karnes, he was born in Houston, Texas. Swayze attended Oak Forest Elementary School, Black Middle School, and Waltrip High School in Houston. Swayze 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.
Swayze 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 has been married to actress Lisa Niemi since June 12, 1975. His brother, Don Swayze, is also an actor.
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.
Swayze has also bred Arabian horses. His best-known horse was the late Tammen, a chestnut Arabian stallion.
Donnie Darko (2001)
