PAYSON, Utah – Hollywood actor Kevin Bacon made a surprise visit to Payson High School to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic film “Footloose.” The school, where the movie was filmed, is scheduled for demolition in the spring of 2025. The reunion was part of a campaign initiated by students and community members to bring back Bacon to mark this milestone.
After a year of planning and collaboration with the Utah Film Commission, Bacon arrived just in time for the school’s prom, which was themed “Everybody Cut Footloose.” The event was a nostalgic moment for many, including Payson High School alumni such as Deborah Smith, who expressed excitement and awe at seeing Bacon once again.
The visit was not only a trip down memory lane for Bacon but also a philanthropic effort in support of his foundation, Sixdegrees. The foundation aims to support and uplift local communities by providing essential resource kits. This initiative inspired students in Payson to contribute 5,000 kits for the community during the event.
More than 1,000 volunteers gathered at Payson High School’s football field to assist in preparing the kits, showcasing the dedication and enthusiasm of the students and the community. Bacon commended the efforts of everyone involved, noting the contagious enthusiasm and sense of community that permeated the event.
The “Bacon to Payson” campaign not only succeeded in bringing a Hollywood star back to a beloved filming location but also fostered a sense of unity and generosity within the community. The celebration of “Footloose’s” anniversary served as a reminder of the power of film to bring people together and inspire acts of kindness and support for those in need.