Patrick Swayze: 1952-2009

Various sources have officially reported that actor Patrick Swayze, known primarily for his work in “Dirty Dancing” and “Ghost,” died today after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 57.

Swayze became a household name in the 80s and 90s, beginning with his patriarch-like role in “The Outsiders” as Darrel Curtis. He’s probably most well known for his performance in “Dirty Dancing,” in which he spewed one of the most imitated lines in the movies: “Nobody puts baby in the corner.” Swayze is also defined by his role in the classic cheesy 80s action flick “Road House.”
The one performance I won’t forget from him is a recent one, his role as the phony inspirational speaker in “Donnie Darko.” In it, he channeled a level of subtle creepiness that was perfectly hidden under what seemed like over-the-top kindness. But when that one twisted secret is revealed about him, no one should have been the least bit surprised. Now, that was good acting; and today, that legacy will hopefully not be forgotten.