On 14 September 2009, Patrick Swayze died at the age of just 57.
Seventeen years later, on the anniversary of his death, Dead Famous looks back at the extraordinary life of one of Hollywood’s most enduring leading men.
From a childhood shaped by dance and a formidable mother, to the roles that made him a global star in Dirty Dancing, Ghost and Point Break, Patrick’s journey was one of ambition, determination and, at times, extraordinary physical endurance.
But behind the movie-star image was a man who battled injury, addiction, personal tragedy and the pressures of fame — while his marriage to childhood sweetheart Lisa Niemi endured for more than three decades.
Then, in 2008, came the diagnosis that would change everything.
This is the story of Patrick Swayze: dancer, actor, sex symbol and reluctant Hollywood heartthrob — remembered on the 17th anniversary of his death.
","author_name":"Mark Randell"}