From high-speed NASCAR races to thrilling aerial dogfights, Tom Cruise continues to redefine action cinema while preparing for ambitious new projects that could include a space adventure.
With a career spanning over four decades, Tom Cruise continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As of 2024, he boasts a net worth of approximately $600 million, and his films have grossed $11.5 billion globally, a testament to his immense success and influence in Hollywood.
Known for his iconic roles in films like Top Gun and Mission: Impossible, Cruise is rumored to be exploring a sequel to his 1990 film, Days of Thunder, and possibly reuniting with his ex-wife, Nicole Kidman, on-screen. Let’s delve into this exciting prospect and other significant projects on the horizon for Cruise.
Days of Thunder 2 emerges as new Tom Cruise project
Released in 1990, Days of Thunder introduced audiences to Cruise as Cole Trickle, a hotshot NASCAR driver with a drive to win at all costs. The movie, though not a box office smash initially, grossed $157 million worldwide. Produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Tony Scott, the film has since gained a loyal fan base, including Quentin Tarantino, who named it his favorite racing movie. Now, Cruise is reportedly in talks with Paramount to revisit this character in a long-awaited sequel.
The idea of a sequel comes at a time when racing films are enjoying renewed popularity, with recent hits like Ford v Ferrari and Michael Mann’s Ferrari. However, Cruise’s Days of Thunder sequel would be uniquely American in its focus on NASCAR, distinguishing it from Formula 1-centered movies. A studio insider revealed, “It’s going to be what comes together first in terms of a script. It depends on the idea and, ultimately, the script.” Cruise is also heavily involved in the project’s direction, as he holds script approval over all his movies.
If this sequel materializes, it could see a collaboration with a familiar director. Joseph Kosinski, who directed Top Gun: Maverick, would be an ideal choice, though his schedule may not allow back-to-back racing films. Regardless, Days of Thunder 2 has the potential to become another iconic role in Cruise’s filmography.
Top Gun 3: A High-Priority Project Following Maverick’s Billion-Dollar Success
After the immense success of Top Gun: Maverick in 2022, which grossed a whopping $1.5 billion worldwide, it’s no surprise that a third installment is under consideration. Paramount and Cruise view a Top Gun 3 as a top priority. The sequel not only revived interest in the original 1986 Top Gun but also brought a fresh, modernized storyline that appealed to new audiences while paying homage to the classic.
Cruise’s portrayal of Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell once again showcased his dedication to performing his own stunts, including flying actual fighter jets. A third movie could potentially explore Maverick’s mentorship role further, perhaps focusing on his legacy and the future of naval aviation. Cruise’s passion for authentic, high-octane action sequences would likely continue to drive the film, ensuring that it matches, if not surpasses, the thrills of Maverick. However, the timeline for Top Gun 3 is yet to be confirmed, as the priority remains on securing the right script and storyline that will resonate with audiences.
Mission: Impossible – Expanding the Franchise
The Mission: Impossible series has been a cornerstone of Cruise’s career since he first portrayed IMF agent Ethan Hunt in 1996. The franchise has grown to eight films, with the latest, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two, set for release in 2024. Cruise’s involvement as both star and producer has paid off handsomely, with the franchise grossing billions globally and securing his position as one of the highest-paid actors in the world.
Each installment raises the bar for action, with Cruise often performing jaw-dropping stunts, including scaling the Burj Khalifa and hanging off a plane mid-flight. According to reports, Cruise earned an impressive $70 million for the original Mission: Impossible and similar amounts for its sequels, thanks to lucrative back-end deals. His total earnings from the franchise are estimated to exceed $285 million, underscoring his significant investment in the series.
As fans eagerly await Dead Reckoning Part Two, rumors suggest that Cruise may be open to exploring additional sequels, provided they offer innovative plots and groundbreaking action sequences. This commitment to delivering high-quality films has made Mission: Impossible one of the most beloved action franchises in cinema history.
Space Movie with Doug Liman
In a bold move that further cements Cruise’s reputation as a boundary-pushing actor, he is currently collaborating with director Doug Liman on a project that aims to shoot scenes in outer space. This groundbreaking endeavor, supported by Universal Pictures, will feature Cruise performing stunts on the International Space Station (ISS), making him the first actor to film a movie in space.
The logistics and planning involved are extensive, as both Cruise and Liman will need specialized training to adapt to the zero-gravity environment of the ISS. NASA and SpaceX are reportedly involved in coordinating the mission, adding an unprecedented level of authenticity to the project. This space-based film represents the culmination of Cruise’s lifelong commitment to immersing himself in the worlds of his characters, even if it means venturing beyond Earth.
While details about the plot remain under wraps, the excitement surrounding the project is palpable. Audiences can expect a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime cinematic experience that merges science fiction with real-life exploration.
Tom Cruise’s Net Worth and Career Earnings in 2024
With a net worth estimated at $600 million, Cruise ranks among Hollywood’s wealthiest actors. (via Geeks for Geeks). His career has been marked by staggering earnings, with over 20 of his movies grossing more than $100 million each. Since his breakout role in Risky Business, Cruise’s salary has steadily increased, reaching as much as $100 million for films like Mission: Impossible 2 and War of the Worlds. His strategic back-end deals have made him one of the highest-paid actors, with career earnings from 1983 to 2019 estimated at $745 million.
Cruise’s ability to command top-tier salaries is closely tied to his success as a producer, as seen with the Mission: Impossible franchise. In addition to substantial upfront fees, he often negotiates a percentage of the box office revenue, significantly boosting his earnings. His dedication to his craft, combined with a shrewd business approach, has solidified his financial standing in the entertainment industry.
From Days of Thunder and Top Gun to Mission: Impossible and his ambitious space film, Tom Cruise’s career continues to be a testament to his talent. Each project he undertakes reaffirms his commitment to delivering thrilling, memorable experiences for his audience. As he explores new cinematic territories, whether on Earth or beyond, Cruise’s legacy as a Hollywood icon remains unmatched.