When it comes to classic ’80s pop-culture movies, “Footloose” has to be in anyone’s top 15. The musical drama came out in 1984, and the story was set in the small rural town of Bomont, Utah. The town council had banned rock and roll music and dancing. But, in rolls Kevin Bacon’s character to shake things up and stir a musical rebellion amongst the youth. What many people don’t know is that the movie was loosely based on a real historical event. You see, back in 1898, an Oklahoma city named Elmore really did ban dancing. And the ban stayed in effect until 1980! Can you imagine living in a place like that? No school dances, no clubs — basically no fun!
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Footloose, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon decided to pay tribute to the classic movie with a hilarious skit. The video begins with Fallon introducing Bacon, and talking about his current TV show, “The Following,” as well as mentioning the anniversary of Footloose. But, just after the host mentions the film, he also informs the audience that “dancing has been outlawed here at the Tonight Show.” As the crowd boos, Fallon pulls out an official scroll that decrees “Dancing Outlawed” and tells the crowd, “rules are rules.” After yelling “NO DANCING” at the audience, Fallon introduces Kevin Bacon. However, no one comes out.
Image via YouTube
They cut to Bacon sitting in his green room watching the show. The actor says in disbelief, “Dancing is illegal?” He switches off the TV and tosses the remote, saying, “Jump back. This is the Tonight Show; there has to be dancing.” He then pulls out a cassette tape (yup a cassette tape) and slides it into a cassette player conveniently installed into the wall. And from there, the old magic starts to happen as the iconic song from Footloose starts to play, and Bacon reenacts his famous dance scene.
Image via YouTube
Folks, listen. You’ve just got to watch this one, trust me. Check it out in the video below.
