The surprising reason Cynthia Rhodes stepped away from her flourishing career after dirty dancing

Cynthia Rhodes, known for her iconic roles in Staying Alive and Dirty Dancing, is a legendary figure in 1980s dance dramas. As she approaches her 68th birthday in November 2024, it’s worth reflecting on why this Hollywood triple threat chose to retire at the peak of her career.

Rhodes was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and began her career with a small part in the 1980 film Xanadu, which starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly. Her breakout came with her portrayal of Tina Tech in Flashdance, followed by a significant role in Staying Alive, where she played the love interest of John Travolta.

However, it was her unforgettable performance as Penny Johnson in Dirty Dancing that solidified her status in Hollywood. In this role, she captivated audiences with her Mambo dancing alongside Patrick Swayze, while also delivering poignant emotional scenes, including the character’s harrowing experience with an illegal abortion.

Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

Rhodes described Penny as a complex character who had endured a tough life, yet retained a sense of sweetness. The film not only showcased her dancing skills but also tackled important social issues, positioning its leads, including Rhodes, for stardom.

Despite her success, Rhodes decided to step back from the industry, citing the physical demands of dance. “Dancing became really hard”, she said, expressing her desire for roles that didn’t involve strenuous movement. “I keep saying I’ll never dance again… my bones hurt, my back hurts all the time”, she explained.

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In 1987, the same year Dirty Dancing premiered, Rhodes appeared in Richard Marx’s music video for “Don’t Mean Nothing”. She married Marx in 1989 and welcomed three children: Brandon in 1990, Lucas in 1992, and Jesse in 1994. Marx noted that Rhodes found more fulfillment in motherhood than in her previous career, which she left in 1990 partly due to the intense physical pain from dancing.

Rhodes, who started dancing at the age of three, emphasized her love for it but acknowledged the toll it took on her body. “If I never danced again, I wouldn’t regret it”, she said, highlighting her contentment in focusing on her family.

Her last film appearance was in 1991’s Curse of the Crystal Eye. After divorcing Marx in 2014, she stepped further into her role as a mother, watching her children pursue careers in the arts: Brandon as a music producer, Lucas as a singer and actor, and Jesse as a musician in a metal band.  While fans miss seeing Cynthia Rhodes on screen, her decision to leave Hollywood resonates, underscoring the high demands of a career in dance and the joy she found in motherhood.

Goldie Hawn, 78, vacation pictures in swimsuit spark comments

For celebrities, to be photographed is a pretty normal occurrence. And for someone like Goldie Hawn, it is very much the same. Hawn, who has been in the limelight since 1969 when she appeared in Cactus Flower is no stranger to public scrutiny.

The actress only got more famous as time went on. She then went on to marry Gus Trikonis and then later Bill Hudson. Both men also worked in entertainment.

Later, Goldie Hawn’s children also followed in her footsteps and became actors. So you will not be surprised to know that she is very used to being photographed any time she is out and about.

Keep reading to know more about what picture of Goldie Hawn had tongues wagging this time.

78-year-old Goldie Hawn was pictured by paparazzi on vacation in her swimsuit and the picture caused a lot of reactions from people who saw it. Many internet users had strong opinions about her appearance.

The actress, who has been with actor Kurt Russell since 1983. The two share one child together, and Russell also helped raise Goldie’s two children from her previous marriage, Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson.

One user simply criticized the actress’ lack of tan, writing, “I love her but I hate the color and style of this swim suit I believe a little tanning cream just saying.”

Goldie Hawn poses for a camera.
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Some criticized her choice of swimwear, with one user writing, “There comes a time when you should not wear some suits or shorts anymore”

While another appreciated the actress and how well she looked for 78 years old, they wrote, “This is an amazing photo! I hope like HELL when im 78 i can stroll the beach in a bathing suit and a tiny cover and not gaf what anyone else thinks! 😊 i think shes beautiful!”

Others were more frustrated with the negative comments, “My God people, leave her alone. She looks great for her age. End of story!”

Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell pose on red carpet.
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The actress herself, has no qualms about getting older.

She said, “Getting older is a fact of life. By living mindfully, you understand that there are many transitions in life, [and] you just have to go through them,” the star told People. “It’s wonderful to know that you’re aging because that means you’re still on the planet, right?”

But she is very aware of the age bias that exists in the industry and among its fans

“You think you’re going to fight the system? You think you’re going to prove to Hollywood when you hit 45 that you’re still a sexy, viable object? No. There’s a certain reality,” Hawn told Bazaar. “Does it make me angry? No. I’m not an angry person. I’m not a militant person. Anger doesn’t get you anywhere. It’s not productive.”

Even with the negative comments she sometimes faces, it is good to know that she is able to look beyond it. What do you think of Goldie’s swimsuit? Let us know in the comments.

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