Tom Cruise's 'Days of Thunder' sequel officially happening, 'Warm Bodies' director attached to helm
Acclaimed filmmaker Jonathan Levine, known for '50/50' and 'Warm Bodies,' is reportedly in negotiations to direct the film. Veteran producer Jerry Bruckheimer is also on board, joining co-producer Cruise
Since "Top Gun: Maverick" happened after three decades, a positive development on another Tom Cruise property, this one from 1990, was naturally expected. The "Days of Thunder" sequel, which has been in discussions for a while, is officially happening with the backing of Paramount Pictures, with
Since "Top Gun: Maverick" happened after three decades, a positive development on another Tom Cruise property, this one from 1990, was naturally expected. The "Days of Thunder" sequel, which has been in discussions for a while, is officially happening with the backing of Paramount Pictures, with
Since "Top Gun: Maverick" happened after three decades, a positive development on another Tom Cruise property, this one from 1990, was naturally expected. The "Days of Thunder" sequel, which has been in discussions for a while, is officially happening with the backing of Paramount Pictures, with
Since "Top Gun: Maverick" happened after three decades, a positive development on another Tom Cruise property, this one from 1990, was naturally expected. The "Days of Thunder" sequel, which has been in discussions for a while, is officially happening with the backing of Paramount Pictures, with Cruise set to produce and reprise his iconic role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle.
What's more exciting is that an acclaimed filmmaker, mostly associated with comedy dramas, is reportedly on board to direct. Jonathan Levine, known for "50/50" (with Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen), and "Warm Bodies" (starring Nicholas Hoult), is in active negotiations to direct the film, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Cruise is partnering once again with veteran blockbuster producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Will Staples, who did some uncredited revisions on "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation" and wrote the video game "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3" and the Michael B. Jordan-starrer "Without Remorse", is handling the script.
Production is tentatively eyed to begin in early 2027, potentially around the same time as the Daytona 500. While plot details remain strictly under wraps, the narrative is expected to explore Trickle's modern-day return to the racing world, dealing with the evolution of technology and the sport. The film's team has reportedly spent months interviewing real NASCAR drivers and teams to craft an authentic storyline.
It's not yet clear how the film will deal with the absence of legendary actor Robert Duvall, who played crew chief Harry Hogge. The actor passed away in early 2026, meaning the sequel will likely feature an emotional tribute to his character. It is also highly unlikely that Nicole Kidman will reprise her role.
Levine is being eyed by the studio reportedly on account of positive reactions to the test screenings of his upcoming sports biopic "Mr Irrelevant: The John Tuggle Story", starring David Corenswet, which follows the life of John Tuggle, the final pick of the 1983 NFL draft, and his impact on the New York Giants. Levine had also worked as a director on the show "Nine Perfect Strangers", on which he is also an executive producer.