Revving Up: Tom Cruise and Anne Hathaway to Star in ‘Days of Thunder’ Sequel
Nearly four decades after Cole Trickle first took to the track, Tom Cruise is returning to the world of NASCAR. In an exciting announcement that has sent shockwaves through the film industry, the superstar has confirmed that a sequel to the 1990 classic Days of Thunder is officially in development.
The news was revealed through a casual, behind-the-scenes video posted to social media, featuring Cruise alongside Academy Award-winning actress Anne Hathaway. In the clip, the duo—dressed in relaxed attire, with Hathaway sporting a distinctive cowboy hat—teased the project before unveiling a vibrant yellow race car emblazoned with the title and a target release date: Summer 2028.
A New Chapter in Racing
The original Days of Thunder, directed by the late Tony Scott, became a touchstone of 90s cinema. The film followed the journey of hotshot driver Cole Trickle as he transitioned from open-wheel racing to the high-stakes world of NASCAR stock car racing. Alongside Cruise, the 1990 production boasted a legendary cast, including Nicole Kidman, Robert Duvall, John C. Reilly, and Michael Rooker.
While details regarding the plot of the upcoming sequel remain tightly under wraps, the industry is buzzing about the creative team attached to the project. Deadline reports that the film will be helmed by director Jonathan Levine, known for his work on hit films like Warm Bodies, 50/50, and Long Shot. The script for the project is being penned by Will Staples.
High-Octane Expectations
The production team is clearly aiming for a premium cinematic experience; the sequel is being filmed specifically for IMAX, promising to capture the visceral intensity of the NASCAR circuit in an immersive format. Fans can mark their calendars for a worldwide theatrical debut on June 2, 2028.
For both stars, the project marks a significant moment in their prolific careers. Tom Cruise continues his streak of high-octane performances, with his upcoming film Digger set for release this October. Meanwhile, Anne Hathaway remains one of the busiest actors in Hollywood, coming off a string of recent high-profile projects, including The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Mother Mary, while currently balancing the development of the highly anticipated Princess Diaries 3.
As fans eagerly await more updates on the Days of Thunder sequel, one thing is certain: the adrenaline-fueled legacy of Cole Trickle is ready for a modern revival.
