Dancing with the Stars: How old is Frankie Avalon?

Frankie Avalon performed “Beauty School Dropout” on Dancing with the Stars Grease Night. The teen icon from the 1950s and 1960s has been performing for decades with a youthful exuberance that belies his age. So how old is Frankie Avalon?

Avalon was born in September 1940, which means he just celebrated his 81st birthday.

Avalon performed the memorable song from 1978’s Grease  during the theme night on Dancing with the Stars. But Avalon was a big star long before Sandy and Danny fell in love in the beloved musical.

Frankie Avalon has been performing since the 1950s

Avalon was a teen idol in the 1950s and 1960s. His hit song “Venus” came out in 1959 and made him an overnight success and teen heartthrob. Between his boyish good looks, his musical talent and his acting ability, it didn’t take long for Hollywood to come calling.

After his recording career took off, Avalon found a new audience of fans starring in huge hits like 1963’s Beach Party and 1965’s Beach Blanket Bingo. Annette Funicello was Avalon’s frequent costar and together they entertained generations of fans who grew up watching their beach movies.

When Grease Night rolled around on Dancing with the Stars, Amanda Kloots and her professional partner Alan Bersten were lucky enough to have Avalon perform “Beauty School Dropout” live. Their Viennese Waltz landed them the highest score of the season.

Grease Night included recorded messages from Grease stars Olivia Newton John and Didi Conn, the actress who played Frenchie – the beauty school dropout that Avalon sings about – in the original film.

Dancing with the Stars continues to deliver big moments despite being in its 30th season. From special guest performers to fun theme nights that challenge and inspire the contestants, there’s always something to look forward to with the show, and Grease Night is another win for the beloved reality competition.