Herbert Ross’s 1984 movie Footloose is an iconic American musical drama that centers around Kevin Bacon’s character, Ren McCormack, a teenager from Chicago who relocates to a small town where dancing and rock music are strictly prohibited. Ren challenges the town’s stringent regulations and persuades the community to overturn the ban, culminating in a triumphant prom where dancing is again embraced.
Ren’s story resonated with audiences, contributing to the film’s commercial success and cultivating a devoted fan base drawn to its vibrant dance sequences and unforgettable soundtrack, highlighted by Kenny Loggins’ chart-topping anthem, “Footloose.” The film’s enduring popularity inspired a Broadway musical adaptation and a 2011 remake. However, despite the movie’s enduring legacy, Bacon recently expressed skepticism about the prospect of a sequel, suggesting that revisiting the story might be a disaster.
Kevin Bacon says a ‘Footloose’ sequel might be a disaster
As the 40th anniversary celebration of the beloved cult classic approaches, the actor took to his Six Degrees with Kevin Bacon podcast to address fan inquiries regarding a potential remake. “Footloose 2 has been done,” he claimed, referring to the 2011 remake of the movie starring Kenny Wormald and Julianne Hough.
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While discussing the possibility of an actual sequel with his co-host, Stacy Huston, Bacon humorously expressed his stance, suggesting that while he’s not opposed to the idea, he finds it entirely unnecessary. “Never say never. I think it would be a disaster,” the 65-year-old noted. “It’s funny, because they made countless Friday the 13ths and I was in the very first Friday the 13th. Then they remade Footloose, then they remade Flatliners, and I decided that they’re just remaking all the movies I’m in that begin with ‘F’. So, if I do another movie that begins with ‘F,’ they’ll probably make it.”
The actor’s opinion about the 2011 ‘Footloose’ remake
The actor also discussed his involvement with the 2011 remake of Footloose. He revealed that although he was offered a role in the film, he declined the invitation. “It was terrible, the part was, and I was like, ‘Why would I be in this playing. It doesn’t make any sense. Like, it just doesn’t make any sense here. I’m not really understanding,’” Bacon admitted. “So, anyway, I said no. They didn’t miss me.”
Although Bacon did not assume a role in the film, he admired certain aspects, particularly highlighting elements he found superior to those in the original version. “Actually, I thought the dancing was incredible in that movie,” he confessed. “The second one was, in a lot of ways, a lot better than we did.”