Footloose is not just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts of many during its original release in 1984 and its subsequent remake in 2011. The film tells the story of Ren McCormack, a teenager who moves to a small town where dancing has been banned. The journey of self-expression, rebellion, and the joy of music resonates with audiences even today. As we delve into the cast of Footloose, we will explore their backgrounds, careers, and contributions to this beloved film. From the leading roles to the supporting characters, each actor brought something unique to the table that helped make Footloose a classic.
The original Footloose featured an ensemble cast that included Kevin Bacon, Lori Singer, and John Lithgow, among others. Each actor played a pivotal role in portraying the struggles and triumphs of the characters in a town that was resistant to change. In contrast, the 2011 remake brought new talent to the forefront, including Kenny Wormald and Julianne Hough, who reimagined the roles for a new generation.
In this comprehensive article, we will not only discuss the main cast members but also highlight their careers, achievements, and the impact that Footloose had on their lives. By the end of this exploration, you will have a deeper understanding of the film's cast and its significance in cinema history.
Table of Contents
- Original Footloose Cast
- Kevin Bacon as Ren McCormack
- Lori Singer as Ariel Moore
- John Lithgow as Reverend Shaw Moore
- Dianne Wiest as Vi Moore
- Supporting Cast of Original Footloose
- 2011 Remake Cast
- Kenny Wormald as Ren McCormack
- Julianne Hough as Ariel Moore
- Impact of Footloose on Cast Members
- Conclusion
Original Footloose Cast
The original Footloose film, released in 1984, featured a stellar cast that contributed to its lasting popularity. Below is a brief overview of the main cast members:
| Name | Character | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Kevin Bacon | Ren McCormack | A Few Good Men, The Following |
| Lori Singer | Ariel Moore | Fame, The Falcon and the Snowman |
| John Lithgow | Reverend Shaw Moore | 3rd Rock from the Sun, The Crown |
| Dianne Wiest | Vi Moore | Hannah and Her Sisters, Bullets Over Broadway |
Kevin Bacon as Ren McCormack
Kevin Bacon, an acclaimed actor known for his versatility, played the lead role of Ren McCormack in Footloose. His character is a rebellious teen who challenges the conservative norms of a small town. Bacon's dynamic performance captured the essence of youthful defiance and the love for dance.
Since Footloose, Bacon has built an impressive filmography, starring in a variety of genres, from thrillers to comedies. His work in films like A Few Good Men and The Woodsman showcases his ability to tackle diverse roles. Additionally, Bacon has become a cultural icon, inspiring the popular "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon" game, which highlights his extensive connections in Hollywood.
Lori Singer as Ariel Moore
Lori Singer portrayed Ariel Moore, the spirited and independent daughter of the town's reverend. Ariel's character serves as a love interest for Ren and represents the struggle between tradition and change. Singer's performance was both captivating and relatable, earning her recognition in the industry.
After Footloose, Lori continued to pursue her acting career, taking on roles in television series such as Fame and films like The Falcon and the Snowman. Her ability to convey complex emotions allowed her to remain a notable figure in the entertainment world.
John Lithgow as Reverend Shaw Moore
John Lithgow delivered a powerful performance as Reverend Shaw Moore, the strict leader of the town who enforces the dance ban. Lithgow's portrayal highlighted the internal conflict between his character's beliefs and the love for his daughter, Ariel.
With a career spanning several decades, Lithgow has received numerous awards for his work, including multiple Emmy Awards. His roles in 3rd Rock from the Sun and The Crown have solidified his status as one of the most respected actors in the industry.
Dianne Wiest as Vi Moore
Dianne Wiest played the role of Vi Moore, the supportive mother who struggles to balance her husband's rigid beliefs with her daughter's desire for freedom. Wiest's performance added depth to the film, showcasing the complexities of family dynamics.
Wiest's illustrious career has earned her two Academy Awards and critical acclaim for her roles in films such as Hannah and Her Sisters and Bullets Over Broadway. Her talent for portraying nuanced characters has made her a beloved figure in Hollywood.
Supporting Cast of Original Footloose
In addition to the main cast, Footloose featured a talented supporting cast that contributed to the film's charm. Notable supporting characters include:
- Chris Penn as Willard Hewitt, Ren's best friend who learns to dance.
- Sarah Jessica Parker as Rusty, Ariel's best friend with a vibrant personality.
- Lance Guest as Chuck Cranston, Ariel's boyfriend who represents the opposition to Ren.
2011 Remake Cast
The 2011 remake of Footloose introduced a new generation of talent, with Kenny Wormald and Julianne Hough taking on the lead roles. This version aimed to capture the spirit of the original while appealing to modern audiences.
Kenny Wormald as Ren McCormack
Kenny Wormald portrayed Ren McCormack in the 2011 remake, bringing a fresh take on the character. Wormald's background as a dancer added authenticity to the role, allowing him to showcase his skills in several memorable dance sequences.
Before Footloose, Kenny was known for his appearances on the reality show Dance War and his work as a professional dancer and choreographer. His performance in the film helped launch his acting career, leading to further opportunities in Hollywood.
Julianne Hough as Ariel Moore
Julianne Hough played Ariel Moore in the remake, infusing the character with a contemporary flair. Hough, a talented dancer and singer, effectively captured Ariel's rebellious spirit and desire for freedom.
Hough's career has flourished since Footloose, with notable achievements in both music and television. She gained fame as a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars and has released several successful albums, solidifying her status as a multi-talented performer.
Impact of Footloose on Cast Members
Footloose has left a lasting impact on its cast members, shaping their careers and public personas. The film opened doors for many actors, allowing them to explore diverse roles in the entertainment industry.
For Kevin Bacon, Footloose became a defining moment in his career, leading to numerous iconic roles and accolades. Similarly, Lori Singer and John Lithgow cemented their places in Hollywood, with both actors receiving critical acclaim for their subsequent work.
The success of Footloose has also inspired numerous stage adaptations, further cementing its legacy in popular culture. The film's themes of self-expression and rebellion continue to resonate with audiences, making it an enduring classic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cast of Footloose played a vital role in bringing this iconic film to life.
