Anne Hathaway to Play Team Owner in 'Days of Thunder' Sequel, Set for 2028 Release
Paramount has scheduled the 'Days of Thunder' sequel for June 2, 2028, with Anne Hathaway joining Tom Cruise. Hathaway will portray a team owner and engineer, while Cruise reprises his role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle. Jonathan Levine directs from a script by Will Staples, with Cruise producing alongside Jerry Bruckheimer and Tommy Harper.
The sequel marks a rare return to a beloved 1990 property, with Cruise reprising his role as Cole Trickle after decades. Hathaway’s casting as a team owner and engineer adds a modern technical dimension, reflecting NASCAR’s evolving leadership. The film’s Imax release and summer 2028 slot signal Paramount’s blockbuster ambitions. Original director Tony Scott’s legacy looms, but Jonathan Levine brings a fresh perspective, while producer Jerry Bruckheimer returns to the franchise’s high-octane roots. Cruise’s social media announcement confirms the project’s momentum, building anticipation among fans of the original’s racing drama.
This sequel could reignite interest in motorsport cinema, drawing both nostalgic older viewers and younger audiences through Hathaway’s star power. Its 2028 release may influence how studios approach legacy sequels, balancing homage with contemporary storytelling. The film’s success could also boost NASCAR’s cultural visibility, though it may face scrutiny over racing authenticity. Ultimately, it offers a potential box-office win for Paramount, but its impact depends on execution and audience appetite for revisiting a classic.