Tom Cruise Hits the Track Again: ‘Days of Thunder’ Sequel in the Works

A Days of Thunder sequel is in the early stages of development at Paramount Pictures.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Tom Cruise is in talks with Paramount for his return as Cole Trickle. The sequel will serve as a follow-up to the original film—showcasing how NASCAR has evolved and connecting with current trends in sports and technology. Additionally, it would honor the legacy of the original director—Tony Scott.

An insider from Paramount Pictures said, “[Cruise] is talking [to Paramount] about Top Gun and Days of Thunder.” The insider added, “It’s going to be what comes together first in terms of a script. It depends on the idea and, ultimately, the script.”

Paramount previously considered a Days of Thunder TV reboot—indicating the title’s potential to attract viewers. With the growing interest in ’90s action films—a trend that continues to gain momentum—a sequel could appeal to both nostalgic fans and new audiences.

“I don’t think a Days of Thunder sequel is a terrible idea,” added the Paramount source. “You might have said that revisiting Top Gun was a terrible idea. I wouldn’t discount it.”

For the Days of Thunder sequel, a strong script is essential, so Paramount is currently reaching out to potential writers.

Here’s the plot details for 1990’s Days of Thunder:

In the fast-paced world of NASCAR, a rivalry brews between rookie hotshot Cole Trickle (Cruise) and veteran racer Rowdy Burns (Michael Rooker). When both of them are seriously injured in competition, the former bitter rivals become close friends. With Cole’s spirits restored by a romance with neurosurgeon Dr. Claire Lewicki (Nicole Kidman), and Rowdy still sidelined by injuries, Cole decides to race Rowdy’s car in the Daytona 500 against underhanded newcomer Russ Wheeler (Cary Elwes).

Cruise’s busy schedule poses a challenge for the sequel’s timeline. He is set to begin filming a new project with The Revenant director Alejandro G. Iñárritu for Warner Bros./Legendary. Additionally, he is developing a film with Doug Liman for Universal that is set in actual space. Furthermore, Cruise is working on a sequel to Top Gun: Maverick, which he and Paramount consider a top priority.

Mission: Impossible 8 is the film with a confirmed release date. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, it is a direct sequel to Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023) and the eighth installment in the Mission: Impossible film series. An insider stated, “I think Tom’s in a good place, and I think Mission is going to be really good.” The film is set to hit theaters on May 23, 2025, from Paramount Pictures.

Source: THR