Kevin Bacon

Early Life

Kevin Norwood Bacon was born on July 8, 1958, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a close-knit family as the youngest of six children. His mother, Ruth Hilda, was an elementary school teacher and a liberal activist, while his father, Edmund Bacon, was an influential urban planner. Kevin's early education at Julia R. Masterman School laid the foundation for his artistic pursuits. At the age of 16, he received a full scholarship to the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Arts, where he studied theater, igniting his passion for the performing arts.

Career

Bacon left home at 17 to chase his dreams in New York City, where he initially struggled to find success. His breakthrough came with the 1978 film "National Lampoon's Animal House," but it was his role in Barry Levinson's "Diner" (1982) that truly established him as a talented actor. Over the years, he has starred in numerous films and television shows, earning accolades such as a Golden Globe Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition to acting, Bacon is also a musician and a member of the folk rock duo, the Bacon Brothers, showcasing his versatility in the arts.

Personal Life

Bacon has been married to actress Kyra Sedgwick since 1988, and they have two children together. Their relationship has been a source of strength for him, especially during challenging times, including financial losses due to the Bernie Madoff Ponzi scheme. Bacon is known for his advocacy for the separation of church and state and has openly discussed his atheism. Interestingly, he and Sedgwick discovered they are ninth cousins, once removed, through a PBS genealogy show, adding a unique twist to their family story.