Kevin Bacon to return to “Footloose” school for 40th Anniversary of movie

By Kathie J on March 25, 2024

It’s hard to believe it, but it has been 40 years since Ren went to Payson High School in Utah and had his prom with Ariel, Willard and Rusty.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Footloose. Students at Payson High School, where the movie was filmed campaigned to have Kevin Bacon come back to the school for their prom. The school is relocating after this year so this would be the last opportunity for Kevin Bacon to come back to the actual gym where he danced with his perfect hair 40 years ago.

The student’s campaign on social media #BacontoPayson,  included TikTok videos dressed up as bacon and recreating scenes from the movie. One of the videos caught Kevin Bacon’s attention and he was so impressed and expressed his admiration for their work and determination.

Bacon said, “It’s a crazy idea to get me to come back. I can’t wait.”

Once Kevin Bacon announced his RSVP, the students were “mega-excited” and “freaking out”. Read about their reactions here.

Read more about how this all came together here.