Celebrity news

Kevin Bacon remembers Bonnie Tyler — and the song that made 'Footloose' unforgettable


Tyler died yesterday, after experiencing a medical complication


Kevin Bacon arrives at the "Family Movie" premiere during 2026 SXSW Conference and Festival at ZACH Theatre on March 13, 2026 in Austin, Texas© Mat Hayward
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
JULY 9, 2026 6:27 PM EDT

Kevin Bacon is remembering Bonnie Tyler on his birthday. The Welsh singer died in Portugal yesterday, following a medical ordeal. She was 75 years old. 

Kevin Bacon attends the "Family Movie" premiere during 2026 SXSW Conference and Festival at ZACH Theatre on March 13, 2026 in Austin, Texas© Erika Goldring
Kevin Bacon remembered Bonnie Tyler following her death

In an interview, Bacon called Tyler "one of the great voices of rock." She was memorably featured on the soundtrack of "Footloose," with her song, "Holding Out For A Hero," playing in one of the film's most famous scenes. 

“I could not imagine chicken racing a tractor to any other song. RIP," said Bacon, referencing the scene in question. 

Footloose (1984) - Hero Tractor Chicken Scene | Movieclips

"Footloose" came out in 1984 and was directed by Herbert Ross. The film was a drama with a musical twist, featuring many dance scenes and emblematic musical moments. The cast included Lori Singer, Dianne Wiest, and John Lithgow, and went on to become one of the biggest hits of the decade, grossing over $80 million against a $7 million budget.

Today, Bacon is celebrating his 68th birthday. Aside from his acting work, he's also known for his passion for music, having a band called The Bacon Brothers and frequently sharing videos and songs on his social media. 

More details about Tyler's death

Bonnie Tyler (born in 1951), British singer, during a concert, October 10, 1984. © Christian Rose
Bonnie Tyler died in Portugal after a medical complication

Bonnie Tyler died on July 8th, with an announcement on her website sharing the news with the world.  “Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in a hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for,” reads the statement. “We will issue a further statement shortly but for now ask for privacy to deal with this tragedy.” 

She died two months after being placed in a medically induced coma after undergoing intestinal surgery. Tyler awoke shortly after the surgery, but was placed under a coma and intensive care to treat the symptoms better. 

Tyler was one of the most memorable voices of the '80s and '90s, with her songs going on to become timeless hits. “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” “Holding Out for a Hero,” “It's a Heartache,” and “Lost in France” are some of her most popular songs, being featured in movies and topping the music charts internationally.  In a career that spanned five decades, Tyler became one of Wales' most successful international music stars. 

She began her career performing as a teenage backing singer before launching her own recording career during the 1970s.© Michael Ochs Archives
She was one of the greatest figures of the '80s