Kevin Bacon accepts students' invitation to visit 'Footloose' Payson High before its demolition

The iconic movie “Footloose” starring Kevin Bacon, undoubtedly had people on their feet in 1984. The movie which marks its 40th anniversary this year has left a mark on millions of fans worldwide. More than anyone, Payson High School in Utah, has been reminiscing and celebrating the movie that was shot on their campus four decades ago. As the school approaches its final year before demolition and relocation, students have dedicated this year to 'Footloose' in celebration of its anniversary.

Fueled by enthusiasm, the school launched the #BacontoPayson campaign, hoping to persuade the actor to visit one final time before its relocation. Over the months, students have been urging Bacon to be a guest for their prom and have been creatively coming up with ways to do so. The school’s Instagram page reflects most of the journey, one of the posts from the school marked the beginning of the campaign. With a hopeful post and a caption, it was written, “Once in 1984 and again 40 years later? Maybe we’ll join forces this Spring. So excited to kick off our Sunday shoes and cut Footloose!” 

What followed was meticulous planning and execution, with careful choreography and iconic scenes from the movie ensuring that Bacon would be compelled to join the celebrations. All over social media, the students have been rendering pleads, dances and more to get Bacon’s attention and convince him to return to Payson High. To their delight, the actor recently shared a response to them via video call, which they captured in another post. “I have been so impressed with everything that’s been going on over there with this crazy idea getting me to come back,” he said. The actor then highlighted that Payson High and the movie were “a big part” of his life.

“I’ve been amazed at all of the work you have been putting in with the musical, the flash mob, recreation. It hasn’t gone unnoticed by me,” Bacon remarked. He also commended the students and the school for getting a non-profit organization into the campaign to help contribute to them as well. “It’s inspirational. So thank you, thank you. And I’m gonna come, I’ve got to come,” Bacon broke the news, leaving the students screaming in disbelief. The day came and Bacon did indeed arrive. In another post, the school shared a glimpse of the actor recalling his shoot on campus. “It’s so great to be here,” he said. The actor also danced to the iconic song “Footloose,” his footwork just like the old times.

The Utah Government supported the school’s effort to welcome the star, as announced in a press release. “We’ve worked so hard this year and done our absolute best to make this crazy dream a reality. I can’t believe that it’s finally happening and that we can say we did it! It was all worth it—we got Kevin back to Payson!” said the School’s Student Body President, Ruby Raff. In a post shared by the Six Degrees organization, a glimpse of Bacon’s captivating speech was blooming.

“It’s been a long time, 40 years. It has my mind blown. Things are different around here. I’d say the thing that looks the most different is me,” the actor said. “You’re all tireless and relentless and your desire to have me return, you talked me into it. Thank you for the commitment to giving back to your community and I’m thrilled that we’re going to be working here together today."