Tom Cruise is gearing up to return to his role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle in a sequel to the 1990 film Days of Thunder, with the movie set for a theatrical release on June 2, 2028. He made this announcement at the Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, just before NASCAR’s regular-season finale. This sequel will see Cruise teaming up with Anne Hathaway, who will play a team owner and engineer.
In addition to starring in the film, Cruise will take on production duties alongside Jerry Bruckheimer and Tommy Harper. The project will be directed by Jonathan Levine, with a screenplay penned by Will Staples. The original Days of Thunder depicted Cole Trickle’s journey to success in the world of NASCAR, known for its thrilling racing scenes and unforgettable characters. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics upon its release, the film has garnered a dedicated following among NASCAR enthusiasts over the years.
Bringing back the character of Cole Trickle marks Cruise’s return to one of his significant early film roles, promising to revitalize the high-octane world of NASCAR for a contemporary audience. The sequel is anticipated to capture the spirit of the original while introducing new elements to engage fans both old and new.
Cruise’s involvement in the production alongside industry veterans like Bruckheimer and Harper highlights the film’s strong backing. Given the lasting impact of the original Days of Thunder, the sequel is expected to rekindle interest in NASCAR-themed cinema, offering both nostalgia and fresh excitement.
