Randy Quaid Blasts Anne Hathaway Casting in 'Days of Thunder 2', Demands Nicole Kidman Return

Key points

• Randy Quaid criticized Anne Hathaway's casting in 'Days of Thunder 2' on social media, calling her a 'horrible choice' and a 'leftist, woke' figure.
• Quaid argued that Nicole Kidman should reprise her role as Dr. Claire Lewicki, stating that the original pairing was essential for the film's success.
• The sequel, set for a June 2028 release, features Hathaway as a team owner and engineer opposite Tom Cruise's Cole Trickle.
• Quaid also criticized the production's rush to release the film, comparing it to the original 'Days of Thunder' production schedule.
• Representatives for Paramount and Hathaway have not responded to requests for comment.

Background

The 1990 film 'Days of Thunder' starred Tom Cruise as Cole Trickle, a rookie stock car driver, and Nicole Kidman as Dr. Claire Lewicki, his romantic interest. Randy Quaid played Tim Daland, the owner of the racing team that recruits Cruise's character. The film was directed by Tony Scott and grossed $157.9 million worldwide. The sequel, 'Days of Thunder 2', is set for a June 2028 release and will be shot in IMAX. Jonathan Levine is set to direct, with Jerry Bruckheimer and Tommy Harper producing.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and Deadline both reported on Quaid's social media posts, highlighting his criticism of Hathaway's casting and his demand for Kidman's return. Variety noted that Quaid called Hathaway a 'leftist, woke' figure, while Deadline emphasized his comments about her pregnancy. ESPN's article was inaccessible, and Yahoo's article was not available for review. All sources agree that Quaid's comments were made on social media and that he urged Cruise to bring back Kidman. The outlets differ in their emphasis, with Variety focusing on Quaid's political criticism and Deadline highlighting his comments about Hathaway's pregnancy.

Why it matters

Quaid's public criticism of Hathaway's casting has sparked a debate about the appropriate casting for a sequel to a classic film. His comments have also raised questions about the production's approach to the sequel, with some questioning whether the rush to release the film is appropriate. The controversy has also highlighted the ongoing debate about the role of politics in Hollywood casting decisions.

What to watch

Paramount and Hathaway have not responded to requests for comment. It is unclear whether Quaid's comments will impact the production of the sequel or whether Kidman will be brought back for the film. The sequel is set for a June 2028 release, and production is expected to begin in the coming months.