Emile Ardolino was an American film director and producer, best known for his work in the 1980s. He gained widespread recognition for directing the iconic film Dirty Dancing, which became a cultural phenomenon and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Ardolino's career also included directing the documentary He Makes Me Feel Like Dancin', which showcased the talent of choreographer Alvin Ailey. Born on May 9, 1943, in New York City, Ardolino studied at New York University and began his career in television. He was known for his ability to blend dance and storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry before his untimely death in 1993.