What Happened to ‘Dirty Dancing’ Star Penny Who Left Hollywood – Her Rare Photos & New Life
- Cynthia Rhode’s passion for dancing catapulted her to fame, but it was her marriage to a celebrated singer that also drew significant attention, adding another layer of intrigue to her public persona.
- The “Dirty Dancing” star left a mark in Hollywood. But beyond the glitz and glamour, her story took an unexpected turn, leaving fans intrigued about her life beyond the spotlight.
- Explore the enigmatic journey of Cynthia Rhodes, from her rise to fame in Hollywood to her quiet life away from the cameras.
Cynthia Rhodes in June 1983 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
Cynthia Rhodes, born on November 21, 1956, won the hearts of many with her remarkable talents as a singer, actress, and dancer. Rising to fame with iconic roles and mesmerizing performances, she quickly built a devoted fan base.
But then, seemingly at the height of her career, Rhodes vanished from the spotlight, leaving fans to wonder what happened. After a successful career and a high-profile marriage, Rhodes chose a different path, one that would take her far from the limelight.
Cynthia Rhodes and other casts in a scene in “Dirty Dancing.” | Source: YouTube/@BoxofficeMoviesScenes
Cynthia Rhodes and other casts in a scene in “Dirty Dancing.” | Source: YouTube/@BoxofficeMoviesScenes
From Olympic Dreams to Hollywood Stardom: The Rise of Rhodes
Rhodes, a Tennessee native, discovered her passion for dancing at a young age. In a past interview, she reminisced about starting to dance at the age of three, but it wasn’t until she was sixteen that she began training professionally.
Her dedication was clear. She trained tirelessly for the Olympics, committing to an intense routine of eight hours a day. Rhodes’ dancing prowess led her to Hollywood, where she would go on to star in iconic roles.
Cynthia Rhodes as Penny Johnson in “Dirty Dancing.” | Source: YouTube//@TheDollarTheater
Reflecting on her career, the “Dirty Dancing” star, recalled the rigorous preparation they underwent before filming. She mentioned training ten hours a day with her co-star Patrick Swayze, describing it as one of the hardest rehearsals she had ever experienced.
It was during this time she decided to step back from dancing professionally due to the physical toll it took on her body. In addition to her dance career, Rhodes made a name for herself as a talented actress.
Cynthia Rhodes and Richard Marx in August 1987 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Richard Marx and Cynthia Rhodes in December 1992 in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
A Love Story Beyond the Spotlight: Rhodes and Richard Marx
After her rise to fame in Hollywood, Rhodes met and married celebrated singer Richard Marx, known for hits like “Now and Forever” and “Satisfied,” he has also sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. The two first crossed paths in 1983.
Despite their seven-year age difference, their love blossomed over time. Initially, they didn’t hit it off, but two years later, their connection deepened, and they began dating. After a few years together, they tied the knot in 1989.
Richard Marx and Rhodes in November 1996 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Rhodes and Marx’s Marriage and Family Life
The pair welcomed three boys, all of whom followed in their parents’ artistic footsteps. Their firstborn, Brandon Marx, arrived in September 1990, followed by their middle child, Lucas Marx, in September 1992, and their youngest, Jesse Marx, in 1994.
A few years into their marriage, the two decided to leave the bright lights of Los Angeles behind and settle down in Chicago. This move marked a new chapter in their lives, one focused on family and personal fulfillment.
Despite the demands of parenthood, Rhodes and Marx managed to maintain a semblance of normalcy away from the public eye. Their life together in Chicago seemed idyllic, a perfect blend of love, family, and private contentment. However, after more than two decades of marriage, things took an unexpected turn.
Richard Marx and Cynthia Rhodes in May 2002 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images
The End of an Era: Inside Cynthia and Richard’s Surprising Split
The seemingly perfect union between Rhodes and Marx came to an end after 25 years when they announced their divorce in 2014. The news shocked many who had followed their journey and admired their commitment to each other and their family.
Another fan couldn’t help but compliment Marx for having Fuentes by his side, writing, “You have such a beautiful wife, inside and out.” The grammy-award winner, who often gushes about Fuentes, once revealed, “I’m in love in the most freeing way I’ve ever experienced. It’s a beautiful thing.”
Since her divorce, Rhodes has largely remained out of the public eye and less is known about her love life. However, in 2023, she made a rare appearance on author Randal Kenneth Jones’ page.
They shared a photo together while promoting his book, “Ruby,” in which Jones revealed that the main character was inspired by Rhodes. Her rare appearances and occasional photos on social media have only fueled curiosity about her life post-Hollywood.
As we delve into the rare glimpses of her current life, it becomes clear that Rhodes has found a new kind of contentment away from the cameras and the spotlight. While fans continue to wonder about her life today, Rhodes remains a symbol of grace and quiet resilience in the ever-changing world of celebrity culture.