What happened to Penny in Dirty Dancing? The 1987 romantic drama Dirty Dancing starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey has gone down in history as one of the most iconic dance movies of all time. One of the most memorable characters in the film is Penny Johnson, Johnny Castle’s original dance partner.
If you want to know exactly what happened to Penny that led to Baby filling in as Johnny’s partner, then keep reading as we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of Penny’s fateful storyline in Dirty Dancing.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Penny gets pregnant and needs an illegal abortion, but the procedure goes wrong and nearly kills her, leading Baby to step in as Johnny’s dance partner for their performance at Kellerman’s resort.
Penny’s Background and Relationship with Johnny
Penny is one of the professional dancers at Kellerman’s
Penny Johnson is a skilled and talented dancer who is part of the professional dance staff at Kellerman’s Resort. With her graceful moves and impeccable technique, she captivates the audience during the resort’s nightly dance performances.
Penny’s dedication to her craft is evident in her flawless execution of complex dance routines, making her a standout performer among her peers.
Throughout her time at Kellerman’s, Penny has become a beloved member of the dance community. Her infectious energy and vibrant personality have made her a favorite among both staff and guests. The guests eagerly anticipate her performances, knowing they will be treated to a mesmerizing display of talent and passion.
She is Johnny Castle’s original dance partner
Penny’s partnership with Johnny Castle, the resort’s resident bad boy and dance instructor, is legendary. Together, they have wowed audiences with their electrifying chemistry and seamless synchronization on the dance floor.
Their performances are a testament to their shared passion for dance and their ability to push each other to new heights.
As Johnny’s original dance partner, Penny has been by his side through thick and thin. Their partnership extends beyond the dance floor, with Penny providing emotional support and guidance to Johnny during challenging times.
Their bond is a testament to the power of dance to forge deep connections and friendships.
Penny and Johnny are implied to have a romantic history
While the movie does not explicitly delve into Penny and Johnny’s romantic history, there are subtle hints throughout that suggest a deeper connection between them. Their intimate dance sequences and lingering glances imply a romantic tension that goes beyond their professional partnership.
Furthermore, their unwavering loyalty to each other and willingness to sacrifice for one another’s well-being speak volumes about the depth of their relationship. Penny’s willingness to put her reputation on the line for Johnny demonstrates the trust and love they share.
It is these nuances that make Penny and Johnny’s relationship so compelling and memorable. Their story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of love, both on and off the dance floor.
Penny Finds Out She’s Pregnant
Penny reveals to Baby that she’s pregnant
One of the pivotal moments in the movie Dirty Dancing is when Penny reveals to Baby that she’s pregnant. This revelation sets off a chain of events that not only tests the character’s relationships but also addresses important social issues of the time.
Penny’s pregnancy brings to light the challenges faced by women during the 1960s when it came to reproductive health and choices.
As an employee at Kellerman’s, her pregnancy would get her fired
Penny’s predicament is further complicated by the fact that she is an employee at Kellerman’s, the resort where the story takes place. In that era, being pregnant while working in the service industry was seen as detrimental to the reputation of the establishment.
Employers often had strict policies against pregnant employees, as they believed it would negatively impact the business. In Penny’s case, her pregnancy would have most likely resulted in her being fired from her job.
She begs Baby to help her find someone to perform an illegal abortion
Desperate to find a solution, Penny turns to Baby for help. She confides in her and begs her to assist in finding someone who can perform an illegal abortion. This moment in the movie highlights the harsh reality that many women faced during that period.
Access to safe and legal abortion was limited, forcing some women to seek out risky and often dangerous alternatives.
The portrayal of Penny’s pregnancy in Dirty Dancing sheds light on the struggles faced by women in the past and the importance of reproductive rights. It serves as a reminder of the progress made in advancing women’s rights and the continued fight for access to safe and legal healthcare options.
Penny’s Botched Abortion and Aftermath
Baby borrows money from her father to pay for Penny’s abortion
In the iconic film Dirty Dancing, Penny Johnson finds herself facing an unplanned pregnancy. In a desperate attempt to resolve the situation, Baby Houseman, played by Jennifer Grey, borrows money from her father to help Penny pay for an abortion.
This decision sets in motion a series of events that will forever change the lives of these characters.
Unplanned pregnancies can be overwhelming, and the choices individuals make in these situations can have far-reaching consequences. Baby’s decision to assist Penny financially highlights the lengths people are willing to go to help those they care about, even if it means going against societal norms.
It is important to note that abortion is a complex and controversial topic. The portrayal of Penny’s abortion in Dirty Dancing serves as a reminder of the challenges individuals face when confronted with such decisions.
Individuals must have access to accurate information, counseling, and support to make the choice that is right for them.
The procedure is done by a shady man and goes wrong
Unfortunately, the abortion procedure in Dirty Dancing is depicted as being performed by a shady character, leading to dire consequences. The film highlights the dangers of seeking medical procedures from unqualified or unregulated sources.
In real life, it is essential to seek professional medical care from licensed healthcare providers when considering an abortion. This ensures the procedure is carried out safely and with proper medical oversight.
Seeking out reputable clinics or healthcare providers who specialize in reproductive health is crucial to minimize risks and ensure the well-being of the individual seeking an abortion.
Penny nearly dies from complications and is bedridden
As a result of the botched abortion, Penny experiences severe complications and is left bedridden, fighting for her life. This portrayal in Dirty Dancing emphasizes the potential risks and complications that can arise from unsafe abortion procedures.
In reality, complications from abortion procedures are relatively rare, especially when performed by qualified healthcare professionals in a safe and regulated environment. However, it is important to acknowledge that no medical procedure is entirely risk-free.
Therefore, individuals considering an abortion should consult with healthcare professionals who can provide accurate information and counseling tailored to their specific circumstances.
The storyline surrounding Penny’s botched abortion in Dirty Dancing draws attention to the importance of safe and legal abortion services. It serves as a reminder of the risks individuals face when abortion procedures are not legally accessible or performed under proper medical supervision.
For more information on safe and legal abortion services, you can visit Planned Parenthood or The Guttmacher Institute.
Baby Steps In As Johnny’s New Partner
With Penny injured, Johnny needs a new partner for his upcoming show
Dirty Dancing fans were left wondering what would happen to Penny Johnson, Johnny Castle’s original dance partner after she sustained a serious injury. With Penny unable to perform, Johnny faced the challenge of finding a replacement to fulfill his upcoming dance commitments.
The pressure was on, as the show was quickly approaching, and finding a suitable partner seemed like a daunting task.
Baby volunteers to learn Penny’s dances and perform with Johnny
Enter Frances “Baby” Houseman, the young woman who had been secretly taking dance lessons at the resort. Baby, played by Jennifer Grey, stepped up to the plate and selflessly volunteered to learn Penny’s intricate dance routines and perform alongside Johnny.
Despite her lack of experience, Baby’s determination and natural talent impressed both Johnny and the audience.
Throughout the movie, viewers witness Baby’s transformation from a shy and inexperienced dancer into a confident and graceful performer. She dedicated herself to countless hours of practice, working tirelessly to perfect the moves and lifts required for the show.
Baby’s commitment and hard work paid off as she seamlessly integrated herself into Johnny’s routines.
The iconic final dance scene, set to the memorable song “I’ve Had The Time Of My Life,” showcased Baby and Johnny’s chemistry and their ability to captivate the audience. Baby’s willingness to step out of her comfort zone and take on the challenge of dancing with Johnny not only saved the show but also became a pivotal moment in her personal growth.
Their partnership leads to romance blossoming between Baby and Johnny
As Baby and Johnny spent more time together, their professional partnership blossomed into a romantic relationship. The intense connection they developed on the dance floor translated into a genuine emotional bond. Their chemistry was palpable, and viewers couldn’t help but root for their love story.
Their romance faced obstacles and challenges, given the social and class differences between them, but their shared love for dance and their unwavering support for each other helped them overcome these hurdles.
The relationship between Baby and Johnny became a central theme in the movie, adding depth and emotion to the already captivating storyline.
Ultimately, Baby stepping in as Johnny’s new partner not only saved the day for the show but also allowed her to discover her passion for dance and find love in the process. The character development and growth of Baby throughout Dirty Dancing is a testament to the power of determination, following one’s dreams, and taking chances.
Penny’s Eventual Recovery and Departure
After weeks of recovering, Penny regains her strength and Can leave
After the botched abortion that left Penny in a critical condition, she faced a long and challenging road to recovery. With the support of her friends at Kellerman’s and the medical staff, Penny slowly regained her strength and fought her way back to health.
It took weeks of rest, therapy, and determination, but eventually, Penny was able to leave the hospital and return to her normal life.
She parts ways with Johnny and Kellerman’s to pursue other opportunities
Although Penny had developed a deep connection with Johnny and had been an integral part of the Kellerman’s team, her near-death experience had a profound impact on her outlook on life. After her recovery, Penny made the difficult decision to part ways with both Johnny and Kellerman.
She felt a need to explore new opportunities and follow her passions outside of the resort. It was a bittersweet departure, as Penny had formed lasting friendships and memories during her time at Kellerman’s.
Penny thanks Baby for saving her life by stepping in as Johnny’s partner
One of the most heartwarming moments was when Penny expressed her gratitude to Baby for stepping in as Johnny’s dance partner and ultimately saving her life. Penny recognized the bravery and selflessness it took for Baby to step out of her comfort zone and take on such a challenging role.
She thanked Baby for her courage and acknowledged the incredible bond that had developed between Johnny and Baby. Penny’s gratitude and appreciation for Baby’s actions solidified their friendship even further.
What Happened To Penny In Dirty Dancing – Conclusion
Penny’s storyline is crucial to Dirty Dancing as it sets events in motion that dictate the rest of the romantic drama. While her botched illegal abortion nearly results in her death, it provides the impetus for Baby to get involved with Johnny and the dancers.
Penny eventually recovers and moves on, but her fateful pregnancy and its consequences leave a lasting impact on Johnny, Baby, and the trajectory of their summer love affair. So when you watch Dirty Dancing and see Penny dancing and laughing with Johnny in those early scenes, remember that her situation is about to take a dramatic turn that changes everything.
Overall, Penny and her unplanned pregnancy act as a catalyst that brings together Baby and Johnny while also highlighting class differences and access to reproductive healthcare. The repercussions from Penny’s abortion propel much of Dirty Dancing’s central story, making Penny an essential figure in this classic 80s film.
