Kevin Harvick has voiced his disagreement with Kyle Larson regarding Larson’s critical opinion of the movie ‘Talladega Nights,’ reigniting debate over its impact on NASCAR’s image. The discussion about the Kevin Harvick Talladega Nights movie disagreement unfolded after both drivers shared contrasting views in recent podcast appearances, highlighting ongoing tensions around how the sport is portrayed in mainstream media.
NASCAR legend Kyle Larson recently expressed concern that ‘Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby’ damaged the reputation of stock car racing. Appearing on Julian Edelman’s podcast, Games With Names, Larson stated,
“I liked the movie. I think it did not do anything good for our sport. I think it turned our sport into like a joke, unfortunately,”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series driver. He continued to suggest the film’s lasting impact on the sport’s perception, adding,
“That’s gotta be one of the most popular racing movies. But I feel like the rest of the world, that’s what they think of our sport now.”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series driver.
Harvick Pushes Back, Champions the Movie
Harvick, a former NASCAR Cup Series champion, addressed Larson’s remarks during his own Happy Hour show, offering a sharply contrasting viewpoint. He described ‘Talladega Nights’ as comedic relief, saying,
“I thought it was hilarious. I liked it,”
—Kevin Harvick, Former NASCAR Cup Series Champion. Harvick made clear he did not share worry about the movie’s effect on NASCAR’s public image.
During the discussion, Harvick’s co-host Mamba Smith weighed in with a different idea for the future of racing films, stating,
“I think that it’s time for us to have another serious movie. Days of Thunder 2 would be nice.”
—Mamba Smith, Podcast Co-Host. While Smith advocated for a new serious portrayal of racing, Harvick looked to the possibility of a sequel to the comedic ‘Talladega Nights,’ even revealing a personal connection to the film as he moves into the real house once used for the character Ricky Bobby, played by Will Ferrell. Harvick humorously added,
“I know where we could re-enact the scene,”
—Kevin Harvick, Former NASCAR Cup Series Champion.
Kyle Larson Eyes a Role in Hollywood
The debate about motorsports in cinema continued when Larson, on the same podcast, spoke about his ambition to appear in a movie. He specifically expressed interest in being cast for a possible sequel to the iconic 1990 film ‘Days of Thunder,’ known for its depiction of NASCAR rookie Cole Trickle, played by Tom Cruise, and for real-life cameos from Richard Petty and Rusty Wallace. Larson described a recent interaction with Jeff Gordon, referencing Cruise’s possible involvement, saying,
“I was with Jeff Gordon the other night and he’s good friends with Tom, and he went to the premiere of ‘Mission Impossible’. He’s like, ‘We’re doing it. We’ve got to do another ‘Days of Thunder.’ I hope they do it,”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series driver. Larson further reaffirmed his desire to take part by adding,
“I would absolutely be in it. I would like to be in it.”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series driver.
Jerry Bruckheimer, the famed producer behind ‘Days of Thunder’ and the upcoming F1 Movie, represents Hollywood’s ongoing interest in motorsports stories. The intersection of NASCAR’s real-life legends—such as Richard Petty and Rusty Wallace—and fictional stories continues to captivate both drivers and fans alike.
The recent public discussion among leading NASCAR figures, including Harvick and Larson, demonstrates how debates on media depictions can shape both public opinion and the internal culture of the sport. Whether through sincere portrayals or over-the-top satire, the way NASCAR is represented in films remains a point of contention, reflecting the intensity and passion found on and off the track. As speculation swirls around potential new movies, the question persists: will the sport’s next silver screen appearance echo the comedy of ‘Talladega Nights’ or embrace the dramatic energy of ‘Days of Thunder’?
