Tom Cruise revives NASCAR legend; new 'Days of Thunder' set for 2028 release

On Saturday, Tom Cruise announced a new NASCAR‑themed film at the Daytona International Speedway, just before the regular‑season finale of the racing series. The actor will reprise his 1990 role as driver Cole Trickle in a sequel to the original “Days of Thunder,” with the new movie scheduled for theatrical release by Paramount Pictures on June 2, 2028.

Cruise will not only star but also produce the project, working alongside Jerry Bruckheimer and Tommy Harper. The film will be directed by Jonathan Levine and written by Will Staples. Anne Hathaway is slated to co‑star as a team owner and engineer, adding star power to the cast.

The announcement came after a long period of speculation. In November 2024, The Hollywood Reporter reported that Cruise had discussed the sequel with Paramount. The original film, released in 1990, was widely criticized at the time for its over‑the‑top portrayal of NASCAR, yet it has since gained a cult following among racing fans. Lines such as “Rubbin’, son, is racin’,” delivered by Robert Duvall’s character Harry Hogge, remain quoted in the community.

Cruise’s inspiration for the first movie stemmed from his success with “Top Gun” and a desire to showcase high‑speed cars and the people behind them. Cole Trickle was loosely based on the late driver Tim Richmond, and the film helped introduce NASCAR to a broader audience that previously had limited exposure to stock‑car racing. The movie’s legacy is evident in the ongoing interest from figures like four‑time Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon, who now serves as vice chairman at Hendrick Motorsports and has publicly urged Cruise to revive the franchise.

While NASCAR has seen mixed success in film and television—ranging from “Talladega Nights” to the poorly received Netflix comedy “The Crew”—the return of “Days of Thunder” promises a fresh look at the sport. With a blend of seasoned actors, a new director, and the backing of Paramount, the 2028 release aims to rekindle the excitement that the original sparked among racing enthusiasts and general audiences alike.