Forty years after the release of Footloose, Kevin Bacon visited Payson High School in Utah, where the iconic film was shot. The 65-year-old actor returned to the small town of Payson, which is home to roughly 21,000 residents and is located 60 miles south of Salt Lake City. Principal Jesse Sorenson revealed that students had been trying to entice Bacon to return for years, especially since the school is set to be torn down next spring. The visit became a charitable opportunity, with students agreeing to put together 5,000 care packages for Bacon’s Six Degrees foundation, which was documented on the charity’s Instagram page.
Upon his arrival at Payson High School, Bacon expressed his delight at being back in the town where he filmed Footloose, exclaiming, “Wow look at this place, look at these people. It’s so great to be here. Go Lions!” Reflecting on the passage of time since the movie’s release, Bacon humorously noted that things appeared different, particularly himself. The actor praised the students for their determination in getting him to visit, acknowledging the positive impact that the film continues to have in bringing people together and fostering themes such as standing up for oneself, individuality, and compassion.
During his speech at the high school, Bacon reiterated the importance of the movie’s messages and the power it has to unite people. He commended the students for turning his visit into a constructive and charitable effort, emphasizing the significance of giving back to the community and being compassionate towards others. As part of the visit, Bacon’s Six Degrees foundation was working to create 40,000 ‘essential resource kits’ for youth and schools, with the students pledging to assemble 5,000 of them on the day of his return alongside their school prom.
Footloose, released in February 1984, tells the story of Ren McCormack (played by Bacon), a student who moves to a small town that has banned dancing and rock music, as he leads a rebellion against the restrictions. The film’s enduring popularity and impact were evident as Bacon expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the students to create the care packages and spread positivity within the community. The actor’s return to Payson High School stirred nostalgia for fans of the cult classic movie, while also showcasing the enduring themes of individual expression, defiance of authority, and unity in the face of challenges. Bacon’s visit served as a heartwarming reunion that brought together the past and present in a meaningful way, leaving a lasting impact on the students and residents of Payson.