‘Footloose’ high school’s petition goes viral – Kevin Bacon finally responds to their request
|Kevin Bacon has etched himself into cinematic history with numerous iconic roles, among them his unforgettable performance in Footloose. This beloved film holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly among high school students.
In a remarkable turn of events, a group of high schoolers united to capture the attention of the actor, and their efforts finally bore fruit. Read on to discover more about this extraordinary story!
The school where Footloose was filmed is on the brink of relocation. This year, as the school prepares to bid farewell to its current location, it will also host its final prom—a momentous occasion for multiple reasons.
Released in 1984, Footloose featured Kevin Bacon as Ren McCormack, the new arrival in a town with stringent rules against dancing and revelry. The movie’s principal photography took place in Utah, with Payson and Payson High School serving as key filming locations.
With its rich cinematic history, Payson High School holds a unique allure, amplified by its association with Footloose. Now, as plans for relocation loom, students have embarked on a mission to ensure that the last prom at the school’s current site is an unforgettable affair. Their initiative? A petition urging Kevin Bacon to return and grace the event with his presence.
In a recent interview, Bacon disclosed that he had participated in a Zoom meeting with the school community. He expressed gratitude for the petition, acknowledging its impact and the efforts to support SixDegrees.org, his foundation dedicated to community outreach.
“It’s really inspirational, so thank you,” Bacon remarked. “And I’m gonna come. I gotta come.” His announcement was met with thunderous applause from the students—a testament to the success of their endeavor.
Established in 1912, Payson High School’s current building was completed in 1967, just 17 years before Bacon’s memorable dance sequences in Footloose. As the movie celebrated its 40th anniversary, Bacon returned to Utah, further solidifying his connection to the school.
Reflecting on the students’ initiative, Bacon expressed admiration for their creativity and dedication. “I’ve been amazed at the work that all of you have been putting into this, with the musical and the flash mobs and the re-creations,” he shared.
It’s clear that Payson High School’s final prom will be nothing short of legendary—a fitting tribute to its storied past and a testament to the enduring impact of cinema.