Kevin Bacon's Throwback: Acting with Penn & Kilmer in '83

Actor Kevin Bacon recently reminisced about his formative years in the acting world, highlighting a significant 1983 Broadway production. He shared a black and white photograph from his time performing in "The Slab Boys," a play that also featured notable actors Sean Penn and Val Kilmer. The production was set in Scotland and focused on young individuals employed in a carpet factory who harbored aspirations for greater success.

"The Slab Boys," penned by John Byrne, ran for approximately one month at New York City's Playhouse Theatre in 1983. The narrative unfolded within a carpet manufacturing setting, depicting the challenges faced by apprentice designers as they prepared colors for the design department, all while dealing with personal struggles.

Bacon and Penn later collaborated again in 2003 for the crime drama "Mystic River." More recently, in 2021, footage of Bacon, Penn, and Kilmer resurfaced with the release of Kilmer's documentary, "Val." This film offered an intimate look into Kilmer's life and career, including his recovery from throat cancer.

Reflecting on his time with Kilmer, Bacon described their collaboration on "The Slab Boys" as a "great experience," noting it was likely one of Kilmer's earliest roles after graduating from Juilliard. Bacon emphasized the profound impact of knowing Kilmer, cherishing the opportunity as a highlight of his life.