Today would have been Patrick Swayze’s 61st birthday so to mark the occasion we’ve decided to look back at one of his most famous (and our favourite) films.

That’s right, we’re talking about Dirty Dancing. In fact, we’re talking about the valuable life lessons it taught us…

1. Always carry the watermelon

If Baby hadn’t been carrying that watermelon, her and Johnny probably would never have danced. And let’s face it, we’ve all dreamt about dancing like that with a hot guy.

 

2. Robbie is a jerk

Don’t think this needs much explaining.

3. The bad guy isn’t always bad

Johnny turned out to be a good egg not only proving that the cool, kind of rough guy isn’t always trouble but that parents (Dr Houseman we’re looking at you) aren’t always right.

 

4. God wants you to shake your maracas

Like Penny says, “God wouldn’t have given you maracas if He didn’t want you to shake ‘em.” So shake ‘em! (And yes, when she says maracas she means boobs.)

5. Hold the frame

Personal space is very important don’t you know? But remember, this only applies for proper dancing, get as close as you want for the dirty bit.

 

6. Don’t put Baby in the corner

Just don’t do it.

7. Cry To Me by Solomon Burke is the sexiest song ever

Don’t act like you don’t know what we’re talking about. That scene is the most intense scene in the entire movie and the song is timed to perfection.

8. Dirty dancing solves everything

By the end of the big finale, all is forgiven. Johnny and Dr Houseman are shaking hands, Baby’s sister has ended things with that jerk Robbie and everyone is smiling (and dancing raunchily with each other of course).