‘Bring Nicole Kidman Back!’ Days of Thunder actor Randy Quaid aims Anne Hathaway casting

Now, Randy Quaid, who appeared in the original high-octane racing drama, has criticised the decision to cast Hathaway in the sequel.

Hathaway has replaced Nicole Kidman, who played the female lead opposite Cruise in the original 1990 film.

Calling for Kidman's return, Quaid wrote on X: "We need Nicole back. Don't be a pussy, @TomCruise. You need the original girl. It's not personal; it's filmmaking. Anne isn't sexy, because and if you haven't noticed, she's pregnant."

Quaid also criticised Hathaway over her perceived political views and questioned her suitability for the film's audience.

"Anne Hathaway is a leftist, woke, horrible choice for DAYS OF THUNDER NASCAR audience who are MAGA. The sexy older chick for Tom in this film needs to be Nicole. That's the casting that would sell the idea," he wrote.

Reflecting on the production of the original film, Quaid added: "It's interesting because when we made the first one there was also a rush to get it out; editors slept in the cutting room on shifts. This is a weird thing, like they want it to come out and tank."

Cruise is set to reprise his role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle in the sequel to the 1990 racing drama, with Hathaway joining the cast. The film is scheduled for release in summer 2028.

Cruise and Hathaway confirmed the project in a social media video announcing the film's return.

In the video, the two actors unveiled the title and release window alongside a yellow racing car, in keeping with the film's racing theme. Hathaway wore a cowboy hat, while both stars appeared in casual button-up shirts and blue jeans.

The sequel will be filmed for IMAX and is also expected to be released in Dolby Cinema, 4DX and other premium large-screen formats, Deadline reported.

Jonathan Levine will direct the film, according to the publication, which also reported that the movie is scheduled for release on June 2, 2028.