FOX and Paramount Television announced today that singers, dancers and actresses Julianne Hough (Safe Haven, Rock of Ages) and Vanessa Hudgens (“High School Musical,” Spring Breakers) have been cast in leading roles in “Grease: Live” (working title). With Hough as the angelic Sandy – Rydell High’s most talked-about newcomer – and Hudgens as iconic bad girl Rizzo, this first-ever live television production of “Grease” will re-imagine the hit crossover musical for an entirely new generation.
Airing live Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016 (7:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX, “Grease: Live” will be executive-produced by film, television and theater producer Marc Platt. “Grease: Live” is based on the original musical “Grease” by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, and Paramount Pictures’ 1978 feature adaptation. It will be a Paramount Television production.
“‘Grease’ is one of the most treasured and favored pop culture phenomenons of our time,” said executive producer Platt. “It’s fun, it’s endearing and we are so excited to reimagine this iconic story with a shared entertainment event suited for today’s audience.”
“‘Grease’ is one of the movies that made me want to be an entertainer, and I have literally been waiting my whole life to play Sandy,” said Hough. “My siblings and I watched it and played it out over and over when we were kids. This is my dream role and performing it live on television will be one of the most thrilling opportunities I’ve had in my career so far.”
“Being Rizzo is something I’ve never imagined, and I love that because it will be a new challenge,” added Hudgens. “She is such an iconic character that continues to transcend generations. I cannot wait to bring her to life on live television. I’m going to be a Pink Lady!”
