Cynthia Rhodes: 1980s Dance Movie Queen (But Why Did She Quit?) | The Rest of the Story | Ep 9

Posted on 04/03/2025
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In this week’s episode of "The Rest of the Story" on "Hey Dancer," I delve into the captivating journey of Cynthia Rhodes, the iconic dancer and actress renowned for her roles in 1980s dance classics like "Flashdance," "Staying Alive," and "Dirty Dancing."

From her early days inspired by Shirley Temple to her standout performances alongside legends like Patrick Swayze and John Travolta, Rhodes' story is one of grit, talent, and dedication.

I’ll explore her transition from a promising gymnast to a leading figure in '80s dance cinema, highlighting her intense 11-hour rehearsal days with Swayze and her collaborations with choreographer Kenny Ortega.

Also, I’ll uncover the reasons behind her decision to step away from Hollywood at the peak of her career in her early 30s.

Join me as I uncover the lesser-known facets of Cynthia Rhodes' life and legacy, celebrating the remarkable journey of a performer who left an indelible mark on the dance world.

Conceived, starring, written, and researched by: Miller Daurey
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All credit for the clips used in the video (names are YouTube handles):

4 sec: TheDollarTheater
1:10 min: ShirleyTemple.
1:53 min: ExpeditionThemePark
2:09 min: gopcss
2:25 min: orsonboris
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3:02 min: thekinolibrary
3:12 min: afiotter
3:25 min: TOTO
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3:45 min: TOTO
4:08 min: thekinolibrary
4:14 min: AlfaWoelfin85
4:40 min: MauricioAlmeida
4:43min: LouVDJOfficialItaly
4:49 min: AlfaWoelfin85
4:53 min: LouVDJOfficialItaly
5:08 min: openingtitles364
5:18 min: TheDollarTheater
5:23 min: czechzapman
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5:45 min: TheDollarTheater
6:06 min: ruzhajaua
6:19 min: TheDollarTheater
6:31 min: entrevistasdecine5387
6:35 min: Oscars
6:46 min: TheDollarTheater
7:01 min: ruzhajaua
7:16 min: TheDollarTheater
7:31 min: 1985USOtourSaraCV60
7:52 min: vhsarchive4125
7:55 min: fragglesrarities
8:00 min: AlfaWoelfin85
8:50 min: LouVDJOfficialItaly
9:15 min: TheDollarTheater
9:49 min: TheDollarTheater
10:15 min: JohanLebbing
10:25 min: richardmarx
10:39 min: vhsarchive4125
10:46 min: LouVDJOfficialItaly
11:04 min: Heartboy1031
11:18 min: AORRADOR

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