Randy Quaid Criticizes Anne Hathaway Casting in 'Days of Thunder 2' as 'Woke' and 'Horrible'

Key points

• Randy Quaid called Anne Hathaway a 'horrible choice' for the 'Days of Thunder' sequel, stating she is not 'sexy' because she is pregnant.
• Quaid argued that Nicole Kidman should return to the franchise, claiming the original pairing with Tom Cruise was essential for the film's success.
• The actor labeled Hathaway a 'leftist, woke' choice that would alienate the 'MAGA' NASCAR audience, according to Deadline.
• Paramount Pictures confirmed Hathaway will star opposite Tom Cruise in the sequel, which is scheduled for a June 2, 2028 release.
• The film will be directed by Jonathan Levine and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and Tommy Harper, with Cruise reprising his role as Cole Trickle.
• Hathaway is expected to play a racecar team owner and engineer in the new movie, a role distinct from Kidman’s original part.

Background

The original 'Days of Thunder' was released in 1990, directed by Tony Scott and starring Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, and Randy Quaid. The film grossed approximately $157.9 million worldwide. Rumors of a sequel have circulated for years, but the project was officially confirmed in August 2026. The original film is often compared to 'Top Gun' due to its action-oriented racing themes.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline reported that Quaid’s comments were a 'problematic diatribe,' highlighting his focus on Hathaway’s pregnancy and political views. The outlet noted that Quaid’s criticism contradicted his earlier suggestion that he might return to the sequel. IndieWire analyzed the casting from a career perspective, questioning why Tom Cruise would prioritize a 'Days of Thunder' sequel over other projects, suggesting it might be a safer commercial choice following the 'Mission: Impossible' franchise. Variety focused on the logistical details of the announcement, emphasizing the exclusive theatrical release in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and 4DX formats. The Independent framed the story primarily around Quaid’s controversial remarks, noting the tension between the original cast and the new lead.

Why it matters

The controversy highlights ongoing debates in Hollywood regarding casting choices, political alignment, and the commercial viability of legacy sequels. It also underscores the shifting dynamics of Tom Cruise’s career as he transitions from the 'Mission: Impossible' franchise to other projects. The backlash from a former co-star may impact public perception of the film and the involved actors.

What to watch

Paramount Pictures has not responded to Quaid’s comments, and it remains unclear if he will appear in the sequel. The film is scheduled for release on June 2, 2028. Tom Cruise and Anne Hathaway will continue to promote the project, while the industry watches to see if the controversy affects the film’s marketing or box office performance.