Kevin Bacon fulfilled his promise to return to the Utah high school where his iconic 1984 film “Footloose” was filmed. On Saturday, Bacon appeared at Payson High School after months of the students’ #BacontoPayson social media campaign. The campaign included recreating movie scenes and choreographing videos to catch the actor’s attention.
By Aubree Rose
#BacontoPayson Campaign
Students at Payson High School launched the #BacontoPayson campaign to bring Kevin Bacon to their final prom. They recreated scenes from “Footloose” and choreographed videos, showcasing their creativity and determination. This effort ultimately persuaded Bacon to accept their invitation. With the school relocating at the end of the academic year, his visit held even more significance.
Commitment to a Good Cause
As part of their efforts, the students pledged to create 5,000 essential resource kits for Bacon’s foundation, Sixdegrees.org, which supports underserved communities. The organization aims to pack and distribute up to 40,000 kits as part of its “Footloose40” initiative. During his speech, Bacon expressed gratitude to the students for turning his visit into something meaningful beyond mere fanfare.
Honors and Memories
During his visit to Payson High School, Kevin Bacon was awarded an honorary diploma. He posed for photos with the students and even visited his old locker, as shown in a video on Bacon’s Instagram Story. This visit was not only a nostalgic trip but also a recognition of the positive impact the students had made.
The Lasting Impact of “Footloose”
Released in 1984, “Footloose” features Bacon as a teenager who moves to a small town where dancing is banned. The movie culminates in a prom, symbolizing freedom and joy, even after 40 years. Bacon’s return to Payson High School was a reminder of the film’s enduring message and its relevance for future generations.
Kevin Bacon’s visit to Payson High School exemplifies how community efforts can lead to positive changes. The combination of nostalgia and commitment to a good cause made this day unforgettable for both the students and Bacon. His return underscores the lasting influence of “Footloose” even after four decades.
Based on content from www.cnn.com
