NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon is pushing for a Days of Thunder sequel alongside Tom Cruise, revealing active discussions during the Daytona 500 weekend. I’ve absolutely talked to Tom about it because I want him to do the project, Gordon stated, emphasizing Hendrick Motorsports' potential involvement. This bid comes 34 years after Cruise’s original film sparked fascination with stock-car racing despite mixed reviews.
The 1990 blockbuster initially faced criticism for exaggerated racing scenes but evolved into a cult classic quoted by fans to this day.
Rubbin’, son, is racin’remains iconic, embodying the gritty charm that won over NASCAR circles. Gordon – a four-time Daytona 500 champion – credits the film for introducing mainstream audiences to motorsports when cameras were bulky and trackside access limited.
Recent momentum includes:
- Paramount’s rumored interest in reviving the franchise
- Cruise’s surprise appearance at Gordon’s 2015 retirement tribute
- Hendrick Motorsports’ record-breaking Daytona 500 win with William Byron
Despite Hollywood’s rocky history with racing projects, Gordon remains optimistic. I’m seeing more momentum in NASCAR entertainment partnerships, he noted, alluding to streaming platforms’ growing interest. While technical challenges persist – like balancing film equipment with authentic race footage – advances in camera technology could modernize the sequel’s approach.
As Cruise builds on his Top Gun: Maverick success, industry analysts speculate a Days of Thunder reboot could mirror that nostalgic appeal. Gordon’s influence as Hendrick’s vice chairman adds credibility, while NASCAR’s 2025 media rights reshuffle offers new storytelling avenues. Whether through documentaries, dramas, or revival films, Gordon asserts racing’s screen potential remains untapped.
