Kevin Bacon has recalled that his role in the 1984 musical drama Footloose may have helped him avoid arrest during a police search in Los Angeles. The actor said officers appeared to recognise him from the film and became less aggressive, illustrating how his sudden fame may have influenced an otherwise serious encounter.

Bacon described police arriving at his home after someone reportedly claimed he was selling drugs, with officers initially “furious” and demanding entry. He said there may have been “a little contraband” in the house, but he did not specify what it was; after recognising him as the star of Footloose, the police reportedly apologised and left. Footloose was a major commercial success, making more than $80 million worldwide from an estimated $8 million budget.