Dennis Quaid to star in 'Thunder Road' based on NASCAR
Washington DC, April 3
Dennis Quaid is set for a lead role in a series set in the world of NASCAR, currently in development at AMC, reported Variety.
Quaid will star in 'Thunder Road,' which is being produced in partnership between AMC and NASCAR. The show is described as "a multi-generational saga of the Whitlock family, whose legacy in stock car racing is as deep as the family's ties to the southern hill country roots that shaped them," per the official logline, reported Variety.
Quaid will star as Duane Whitlock, a.k.a. The Wrecking Ball. He is described as "a NASCAR legend" and "a towering figure who built a racing empire from a legacy of moonshine runs and dirt tracks...and refuses to let it die. This is a story about a blue-collar dynasty at the edge of extinction and the old king fighting to hold onto his crown," reported Variety.
The series is currently on the fast track for a series order at AMC with Quaid's attachment, with hopes to begin production this summer.
Quaid recently starred in the Paramount+ serial killer drama 'Happy Face' as well as the Taylor Sheridan-produced 'Lawmen: Bass Reeves' at the streamer.
He has previously starred on shows like 'Merry Happy Whatever,' 'The Art of More,' and 'Vegas.' He is primarily known for his film roles, having led features such as 'The Rookie,' 'The Day After Tomorrow,' 'Traffic,' 'Frequency,' 'The Parent Trap,' 'The Right Stuff,' 'Breaking Away,' and 'Midway' among many others.
John Fusco is the writer and executive producer of 'Thunder Road.' Taylor Elmore will executive produce and serve as showrunner. Cliff Roberts executive produces along with Mark L. Smith. Tim Clark and John Dahl executive produce on behalf of NASCAR and Gladys Cheng produced it.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting concept! The "multi-generational saga" and "blue-collar dynasty" parts sound like it could have universal family drama appeal, similar to some of our own TV soaps but with racing. Quaid is a reliable lead. Hope it gets a good Indian streaming platform release.
Moonshine runs and dirt tracks to a racing empire? That's a proper rags-to-riches story. Reminds me of the spirit behind some of our own business tycoons' journeys. The southern US setting is unique. Might give it a watch for the family dynamics more than the racing.
Respectfully, while the talent involved is good, the premise feels very niche and specifically American. As an Indian viewer, I find it hard to relate to NASCAR culture. I wish international studios would greenlight more stories with global or diverse settings that aren't so region-locked.
Taylor Sheridan is involved? His shows usually have great production value. If this has the same gritty, authentic feel as 'Bass Reeves', it could be good. Quaid playing an ageing legend fighting to hold on is a strong role. Hope the writing does justice to the concept.
Not my usual genre, but a well-made family saga can transcend the setting. The logline mentions "southern hill country roots" – that could have some interesting cultural depth. Will wait for the reviews and trailer before deciding. Always good to see veteran actors like Quaid get lead roles.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.