Julianne Hough and Vanessa Hudgens to Star as Sandy and Rizzo in 'Grease: Live'

Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX) and Paramount Television announced today that superstar 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 (wt) will be executive-produced by acclaimed film, television and theater producer Marc Platt. GREASE: LIVE (wt) 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!”

Julianne Hough is a two-time professional champion of “Dancing with the Stars.” Her film credits include “Safe Haven,” “Paradise,” “Rock of Ages,” “Footloose” and “Burlesque.” Most recently, Hough wrapped up her first season as a fourth judge on “Dancing with the Stars.” Her self-titled debut album, released by Universal Music Group Nashville in 2008, hit the Billboard Country charts at No. 1 and entered the Billboard 200 at No. 3, marking the highest debut for a country artist since 2006. Her first two singles from the album, “That Song in My Head” and “My Hallelujah Song,” earned Hough her first two Academy of Country Music Awards for Top New Female Vocalist and Top New Artist. 

SOURCE: Fox