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Tom Cruise marked the 35th anniversary of Days of Thunder on June 27, commemorating the deep bond between Hollywood and NASCAR that evolved from the 1990 film.
In a heartfelt tribute on X, Cruise acknowledged the milestone while simultaneously cheering for the newly released F1 feature produced by long-time collaborator Jerry Bruckheimer. He wrote:
"I always love the fun and adrenaline of a racing film. Today marks two racing milestones for my friend Jerry Bruckheimer, the release of F1 and the 35 year anniversary to the day of our collaboration with the great Tony Scott on Days of Thunder."
Cruise also shared rare behind-the-scenes snapshots from the original production, some of which feature him as Cole Trickle alongside the venerable Tony Scott at the helm.
It's a glimpse into Hollywood's race-car-drenched heart and a nod from Cruise that the spirit of that movie not only survives, it thrives.
Midway through the post, Cruise pivoted from nostalgic reflection to franchise-forward anticipation. That pivot culminated in him teasing the possibility, yet not confirming, a sequel.
When even NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps hints at interest, telling CNBC, "I'm not suggesting this is where we're going," the suggestion is clear: the franchise's return could shift production from comedic mockery to dramatic authenticity.
Celebrating, reflecting, and speculating
Cruise's personal celebration caught the eye of fans who have long idolized Days of Thunder for inspiring a generation of drivers, and for laying the groundwork for the rise of NASCAR culture.
Less about the genre of the film and more about its impact, the legacy is evident on race weekends where throwback liveries, like Cole's white-and-red Lumina or Rowdy's black-and-white scheme, are commonplace fixtures.
In recent years, NASCAR veterans, including Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon, have publicly campaigned for a sequel. Online, fans echo this sentiment:
"If Brad Pitt can be a 61 year old F1 driver, Tom Cruise can be a 62 year old NASCAR driver," one wrote, capturing the dream that Cruise still has some highoctane gas left in the tank.
Meanwhile, Hollywood rumblings suggest movement behind the scenes. A Days of Thunder sequel is reportedly in "development," with original producer Bruckheimer and Cruise's team exploring ideas for both the big screen and streaming platforms.
Still in early stages, details remain sparse: no finalized script or director, but the potential is promised.
Jerry Bruckheimer, who produced Top Gun: Maverick and is once again wedded to the concept, told Road & Track last week that a sequel with Cruise attached is moving forward.
Autoweek, meanwhile, picked up on the momentum, asserting that the return of Cole Trickle and Rowdy Burns would serve as a nostalgic homecoming and perhaps a daredevil callback to the 1990 original.