Cruise revealed Hathaway’s casting on social media with a photo of the pair alongside a NASCAR race car in Daytona. The announcement also confirmed a June 2, 2028, theatrical release, with the film set to be shot in IMAX.
Anne Hathaway Takes on a New Role in the Racing Sequel
The original “Days of Thunder” arrived in theaters in 1990, with Cruise starring as Cole Trickle, a young driver trying to establish himself in NASCAR. Directed by Tony Scott and produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, the picture followed Cole’s rise through the sport, his rivalry with Rowdy Burns, and his relationship with Dr. Claire Lewicki, played by Nicole Kidman.
The film was released by Paramount Pictures on June 27, 1990, and ultimately earned $157.9 million worldwide against a reported $60 million production budget. While its initial critical response was mixed, the movie developed a lasting following among NASCAR fans in the years that followed.
Cruise’s return as Cole Trickle had been in development for some time. In November 2024, reports indicated that the actor was in final negotiations to star in and produce a sequel. By July 2026, Jonathan Levine was reportedly in talks to direct from a screenplay by Will Staples, with production expected to begin in early 2027.
Hathaway’s character brings a new element to the story. While plot details for the sequel remain under wraps, she is expected to portray a team owner and engineer.
The sequel is now scheduled to arrive on June 2, 2028, with IMAX photography planned for the production. Cruise previously confirmed that the next chapter would arrive in summer 2028, making the latest announcement the most substantial casting update yet.