Kevin Bacon has fulfilled his promise to return to Payson High School in Utah, the iconic location where the beloved 1984 film “Footloose” was shot. This momentous occasion comes after months of dedicated efforts by the school’s students, who initiated the #BacontoPayson social media campaign in hopes of convincing the actor to attend their final prom.
The students’ campaign included recreating scenes from the movie and choreographing videos, all aimed at capturing Bacon’s attention and securing his presence at their event. Their persistence paid off, as Bacon graced the school’s football field on Saturday to address the enthusiastic crowd.
Reflecting on the students’ relentless determination, Bacon expressed his initial surprise at the campaign, remarking, “When I first heard about this Bacon to Payson thing, I was like, ‘Wow, this is crazy.’ But you were all just tireless.” He commended their unwavering commitment and acknowledged being persuaded by their efforts.
In addition to his heartfelt gratitude, Bacon lauded the students for channeling their enthusiasm into a meaningful cause. As part of their endeavor to entice Bacon back to campus, the school pledged to create 5,000 essential resource kits for his Sixdegrees.org foundation, which supports underserved communities. This initiative, known as “Footloose40,” aims to pack and distribute up to 40,000 kits, furthering the foundation’s impactful work.
During his visit, Bacon was presented with an honorary diploma from Payson High School and engaged in various activities with the students. He even revisited his locker from the movie, capturing moments of nostalgia and camaraderie.
“Footloose,” released nearly four decades ago, continues to resonate with audiences, depicting Bacon’s character’s efforts to challenge a small town’s ban on dancing. The film’s enduring legacy was palpable as Bacon’s return to the high school reaffirmed its significance, proving that after 40 years, the prom remains an iconic setting for getting “footloose.
