Anne Hathaway Will Join Tom Cruise in Days of Thunder 2

Anne Hathaway will star as a NASCAR team owner and engineer in the upcoming racing sequel.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Action/Adventure

Graphic illustration of a racing car silhouette on a curved track, using a bold electric blue and red palette.
Anne Hathaway will join Tom Cruise in the upcoming Days of Thunder 2, with production scheduled to begin in March 2027. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Anne Hathaway is set to join Tom Cruise in the cast of the highly anticipated Days of Thunder 2. Production for the film will begin in March 2027.

Why it matters

The sequel to the 1990 racing classic brings together a star-studded cast to revitalize the franchise for a modern audience. Tom Cruise will reprise his iconic role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle.

Anne Hathaway is joining a high-profile production schedule, having promoted 5 major films throughout 2026. The film features a screenplay by Will Staples and direction by Jonathan Levine.

The players

Anne Hathaway

She is an Academy Award-winning actress known for her versatile roles in major Hollywood blockbusters and dramatic films.

Tom Cruise

He is a prolific actor and producer known for his extensive work in high-budget action franchises.

Jonathan Levine

He is a film director recognized for his work on various comedy and drama features in the American film industry.

Jerry Bruckheimer

He is a legendary Hollywood producer behind numerous blockbuster film and television franchises.

The details

Anne Hathaway is slated to play a NASCAR team owner and engineer, joining Tom Cruise as he reprises his role as Cole Trickle. The project is being produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Tom Cruise, and Tommy Harper.

Timeline

  1. March 2027 marks the official start of filming for Days of Thunder 2.

  2. June 2, 2028 is the scheduled date for the theatrical release.

Industry Dynamics

The production represents a strategic effort by studios to leverage established intellectual property in the ongoing battle for box office dominance. This move mirrors broader Hollywood trends of reviving classic 90s franchises to capitalize on nostalgia and star-driven marketing.

Fans can plan to see the film in theaters when it arrives on June 2, 2028. The star-studded casting indicates a major theatrical push that will likely ensure wide availability across global cinema chains.

The takeaway

Studios are increasingly relying on long-dormant franchises and established stars to guarantee audience interest in a crowded market. Enthusiasts can track the development of this production as more details regarding the racing sequences and supporting cast are revealed.

Further reading

Learn more about upcoming high-octane projects in the Action/Adventure section.

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Would you pay to see a sequel to a cult classic film in theaters?