CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Ryan Blaney, the charismatic driver of the No. 12 Ford for Team Penske, stands out among active NASCAR competitors not only for his racing skills but also for his impressive film and television resume. Blaney has made appearances in notable racing films like "Cars 3" and "Logan Lucky," as well as in popular TV shows such as "Taken" and "Magnum P.I." His recent role in the Amazon short film "NASCAR vs. Navy" showcased his ability to blend motorsports with entertainment, further fueling his interest in filmmaking.
Blaney attributes his crossover into acting to his engaging personality and the unique parallels between motorsports and the film industry. "There’s a correlation between making movies and motorsports, I think, because there’s so much that goes on behind the scenes that you don’t see that goes into it," Blaney explained to USA TODAY Sports. This connection has made the prospect of acting appealing to him, as he enjoys the collaborative nature of both fields.
The excitement in the NASCAR community has surged following Tom Cruise's announcement of a sequel to his beloved 1990 film, "Days of Thunder." The sequel is set to hit theaters on June 2, 2028, with Cruise reprising his role and producing the film alongside Oscar-winning actress Anne Hathaway. The announcement came during the recent NASCAR race at Daytona, where Cruise was seen mingling with drivers and engaging in pre-race activities.
Blaney expressed confidence in Cruise's commitment to the project, stating, "Anything that Tom Cruise seems to do, he puts everything into it, and he’s going to put everything into this." His enthusiasm is shared by many in the racing industry, as the original film holds a special place in the hearts of NASCAR fans and drivers alike.
As the sequel takes shape, several drivers have already been in touch with the filmmakers, sharing insights and offering advice on racing-related scenes. Carson Hocevar, who races the No. 77 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports, revealed that he has been collaborating with Cruise's team since January, showcasing the eagerness of drivers to contribute to the film's authenticity.
The original "Days of Thunder" follows the journey of Cole Trickle, played by Cruise, as he transitions from open-wheel racing to NASCAR, facing challenges and rivalries along the way. The film features a memorable cast, including the late Robert Duvall as Trickle's crew chief and Nicole Kidman as his love interest. Austin Cindric, driver of the No. 2 Ford for Team Penske, noted that the film is one of the more accurate portrayals of racing, which adds to the anticipation surrounding the sequel.
Many current NASCAR drivers, who grew up watching the original film, are eager for the chance to be involved in the sequel. Blaney humorously stated, "My phone line is open. If they need me for anything, I would love to be part of it." This sentiment reflects a broader enthusiasm among drivers to connect with the legacy of the original film.
Despite the passage of time since the original's release, Cruise's character is expected to return to the racetrack, as he confirmed in a recent interview that Trickle will indeed be behind the wheel. This revelation has prompted NASCAR drivers to contemplate their potential roles in the sequel, with many expressing a preference for being either Trickle's teammate or rival.
Joey Logano, for instance, declared his choice to be a rival, citing the film's impact on his childhood. In contrast, Austin Hill opted for the teammate role, while Hocevar leaned towards rivalry, suggesting it would offer more screen time. The excitement surrounding the upcoming "Days of Thunder" sequel is palpable, as NASCAR drivers look forward to the opportunity to be part of a cinematic experience that has shaped the sport's culture.
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