KEVIN BACON

Introduction

Kevin Norwood Bacon is a celebrated American actor, director, and musician, born on July 8, 1958, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At 66 years old, he has built an impressive career spanning film, television, theatre, and music .

Early Life & Education

Born the youngest of six children to Edmund Bacon, an urban planner and architect, and Ruth Hilda Bacon, a teacher and liberal activist, Kevin was immersed in creativity from a young age . He attended Julia R. Masterman School in Philadelphia and, at 16, earned a full scholarship to the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Arts at Bucknell University—a pivotal moment that cemented his dedication to acting . After high school graduation in 1976, he took acting classes at the Circle in the Square Theatre School in New York City .

Breakthrough & Acting Career

Kevin made his film debut in National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978), followed by small TV roles on soap operas like Search for Tomorrow and Guiding Light. His first real breakthrough came with Diner (1982), earning praise for his performance .

• Footloose (1984): Catapulted him to teen-idol fame as Ren McCormick, a role that resonated deeply with audiences .

• The 1990s: He showcased versatility in genres—Tremors, Flatliners, JFK, A Few Good Men, Apollo 13—moving from leading man to respected character actor .

• 2000s onward: Acclaimed for mature roles in Mystic River, The Woodsman (earned Independent Spirit Award), Taking Chance (won Golden Globe & SAG Awards), and high-profile TV roles in The Following, City on a Hill, and I Love Dick .

Directing & Music

Kevin directed Losing Chase (1996) and Loverboy (2005), recognizing early that branching into directing could open new creative doors . In music, he co-founded The Bacon Brothers band with his brother Michael in 1995. They’ve released several albums, and he often shares musical moments (e.g., serenading goats) on social media .

Personal Life & Philanthropy

Married to actress Kyra Sedgwick since 1988, they have two children: Travis (born 1989) and Sosie (1992) . The family lives between Manhattan and their Connecticut farm, balancing city life with rural simplicity . Kevin has spoken openly about being an atheist and advocating for church-state separation, influenced by his mother’s activism .

Six Degrees & Charitable Work

Known globally thanks to the popular Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon linking game, he embraced the concept by launching SixDegrees.org in 2007—a platform that connects people and charities through networks of influence . By 2010, the initiative had raised millions, underscoring his evolution from actor to socially conscious philanthropist .

Recent Work & Legacy

Kevin continues to thrive creatively. At age 66, he’s active in acting, music, and advocacy, with projects like Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, the slasher sequel MaXXXine, and his band’s performances . He’s embraced being a character actor, often taking smaller yet fascinating roles that keep him passionate about his craft .

Kevin Bacon’s journey—from a driven Philadelphia teen to a multifaceted Hollywood icon, spouse, father, musician, and philanthropist—is marked by reinvention, depth, and heart. He remains one of the most recognizable and respected figures in entertainment today.