Julia Stiles plays Sara Johnson, Sean Patrick Thomas plays Derek Reynolds, and Kerry Washington plays Chenille Reynolds in the 2001 film Save the Last Dance.
Main cast
- Sara JohnsonJulia StilesMain
- Derek ReynoldsSean Patrick ThomasMain
- Chenille ReynoldsKerry WashingtonMain
Supporting cast
- KennyFredro StarrSupp
- MalakaiTerry KinneySupp
- Roy JohnsonBianca LawsonSupp
- NikkiElise NealSupp
- SnookieVince GreenSupp
- DarnellGarland WhittSupp
- MilesRashaan NallSupp
Guest & voice
- Mrs. JohnsonDonna DuplantierGuest
- Dr. GormanArtel GreatGuest
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About this cast
Save the Last Dance is a 2001 romantic drama film starring Julia Stiles as Sara Johnson, a white teenage ballet dancer who moves to a predominantly black neighbourhood in Chicago and falls in love with Derek Reynolds, played by Sean Patrick Thomas. The film explores themes of race, class, and following one’s dreams, with a supporting cast including Kerry Washington as Derek’s sister Chenille.
FAQs
Who plays Sara Johnson in Save the Last Dance?
Julia Stiles plays Sara Johnson.
Who plays Derek Reynolds in Save the Last Dance?
Sean Patrick Thomas plays Derek Reynolds.
Who plays Chenille Reynolds in Save the Last Dance?
Kerry Washington plays Chenille Reynolds.
What is the film Save the Last Dance about?
It follows a white ballet dancer who moves to a diverse Chicago neighbourhood and falls in love with a black student, navigating racial and cultural differences while pursuing her dance dreams.
Is Save the Last Dance based on a true story?
No, it is a fictional story written by Duane Adler.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026