Real NASCAR drivers appeared in the original Days of Thunder movie
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 2:25 AM
Last updated Sep 4, 2026
The 1990 film Days of Thunder integrated real NASCAR figures to establish credibility for its racing sequences. Richard Petty, Rusty Wallace, Neil Bonnett, and Harry Gant made cameo appearances as themselves. The production also utilized Hendrick Motorsports race cars during actual Cup Series events at Phoenix and Daytona to capture authentic footage. Beyond the drivers, media personalities including Dr. Jerry Punch, Bob Jenkins, Benny Parsons, and Ned Jarrett appeared on screen. With a sequel currently in development, contemporary drivers such as Joey Logano, Chase Briscoe, and Kyle Larson have expressed interest in participating in the new production.
- •Richard Petty, Rusty Wallace, Neil Bonnett, and Harry Gant made cameos in the original film.
- •Greg Sacks and Bobby Hamilton drove movie cars in actual NASCAR Cup Series races.
- •Filmmakers recorded footage at the 1990 Daytona 500 with cars running among the field.
- •Joey Logano, Chase Briscoe, and Kyle Larson expressed interest in appearing in the new movie.
- •Media figures including Ned Jarrett and Benny Parsons appeared in the 1990 release.
- 2:25 AMYahoo Sports — NASCAR Drivers Vying For Cameos in ‘Days of Thunder’ Sequel
- 12:35 AMYahoo Sports — Every Real NASCAR Driver Who Appeared in ‘Days of Thunder’
""Days of Thunder" featured several real NASCAR stars, including Richard Petty and Rusty Wallace. Other Cup drivers played an even bigger role behind the scenes.
"Multiple NASCAR drivers are vying for a cameo in the "Days of Thunder" sequel.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 4, 2026, 2:25 AMNASCAR Drivers Vying For Cameos in ‘Days of Thunder’ Sequel
Multiple NASCAR drivers are vying for a cameo in the "Days of Thunder" sequel.
- Yahoo SportsSep 4, 2026, 12:35 AMEvery Real NASCAR Driver Who Appeared in ‘Days of Thunder’
"Days of Thunder" featured several real NASCAR stars, including Richard Petty and Rusty Wallace. Other Cup drivers played an even bigger role behind the scenes.
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