Hollywood Writer Visits NASCAR Tracks for 'Days of Thunder' Sequel

Paramount Pictures confirms sequel to 1990 Tom Cruise racing film is in development

Mar. 12, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A Hollywood writer has been visiting recent NASCAR races and team shops near Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of the development process for a sequel to the 1990 film 'Days of Thunder' starring Tom Cruise. The original film was a financial success and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Sound. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has already expressed interest in bringing back Cruise for a new installment, though the status of other cast members like the late Robert Duvall remains unclear.

Why it matters

The original 'Days of Thunder' film was widely embraced by NASCAR fans for its strong representation of the sport. A sequel could reignite interest in the franchise and introduce the world of stock car racing to a new generation of moviegoers.

The details

According to a report in Sports Business Journal, a Hollywood writer identified as Will Staples has been meeting with NASCAR teams and drivers to help develop a plot for the 'Days of Thunder' sequel. Staples has contributed to projects like the film 'Without Remorse' and the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 video game. The writer has been spotted at recent races, including the Phoenix championship in November and the Daytona 500 last month, as well as visiting some team race shops near Charlotte.

  • In early November 2025, Paramount Pictures confirmed it was working on a 'Days of Thunder' sequel.
  • The original 'Days of Thunder' film was released in 1990.

The players

Tom Cruise

The star of the original 'Days of Thunder' film, who is expected to reprise his role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle in the sequel.

Jerry Bruckheimer

The producer of the original 'Days of Thunder' film, who has expressed interest in bringing back Cruise for a new installment.

Will Staples

A Hollywood writer who has been visiting NASCAR races and team shops to help develop the plot for the 'Days of Thunder' sequel.

Robert Duvall

The actor who played veteran crew chief Harry Hogge in the original 'Days of Thunder' movie, but has since passed away.

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What they’re saying

“There's always new technology. There's always new ways to do things and see things. Tom is such a great individual, comes up with phenomenal ideas. So, we'll have something really exciting for an audience once we pull it together.”

— Jerry Bruckheimer, Producer (Entertainment Tonight)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The development of a 'Days of Thunder' sequel highlights the enduring appeal of the original film and the potential to introduce NASCAR to a new generation of moviegoers. However, the loss of key cast member Robert Duvall will be felt, and the filmmakers will need to carefully navigate the plot and casting to capture the spirit of the original while offering something fresh for audiences.