Despite not being a fighter pilot, Lewis Hamilton found himself on the brink of a cinematic adventure, potentially starring alongside Tom Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick. Recognizing the film’s potential to soar at the box office, the Formula 1 racing star reached out to his friend Cruise, making his ambitions clear.
However, like Samuel L. Jackson in similar circumstances, Hamilton ultimately had to decline the role specifically crafted for him by Cruise. While the opportunity eluded him, Hamilton’s brush with the Maverick part attests to his desire to explore diverse avenues beyond the racing track.
What Role Lewis Hamilton Would’ve Played In The Film
Like countless individuals who were captivated by the original Top Gun during their formative years, Hamilton swiftly became an ardent fan, harboring dreams of becoming a fighter pilot. While that aspiration didn’t materialize, his role as a Formula 1 champion can be seen as the closest parallel, offering a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled experience akin to being in the cockpit.
Forging a bond with Cruise, Lewis Hamilton’s passion for aviation led to a meaningful friendship. Therefore, upon learning of Paramount’s greenlighting of Top Gun: Maverick, he reached out to Cruise, channeling the spirit of Samuel L. Jackson, in pursuit of a coveted role. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Hamilton shared his enthusiasm and determination, showcasing his desire to secure a part in the highly anticipated film, leveraging his relationship with Cruise in the process.
Drawing inspiration from George Lucas, Tom Cruise took it upon himself to create a tailor-made role for Hamilton in Top Gun: Maverick. Unfortunately, the demanding F1 season posed a scheduling conflict, forcing Hamilton to make a heart-wrenching decision. Reflecting on the experience in an interview with Vanity Fair, he revealed that conveying his regrets to Cruise and director Joseph Kosinski was an immensely distressing phone call.
Lewis Hamilton Teaming With Brad Pitt Ditching Tom Cruise
Although Lewis Hamilton’s anticipated breakthrough in Hollywood, specifically in Top Gun 2, did not come to fruition, he discovered an alternative path to enter the realm of show business. While his previous involvement in films like Cars 2 and Cars 3, where he lent his voice as himself, offered a taste of the industry, Hamilton found other avenues to make his mark beyond traditional acting roles. Despite the missed opportunity, he remains determined to explore and leave his imprint on the entertainment world through unconventional means, showcasing his versatility and passion for both racing and the arts.
Exciting news unfolds as Hamilton, Kosinski, and Brad Pitt unite forces to bring an F1 film to the streaming platform AppleTV+.
“Apple Studios has landed the sought-after Formula One racing feature from Joseph Kosinski, Plan B Entertainment, and Jerry Bruckheimer Films, starring Academy Award winner Brad Pitt. Kosinski is set to direct and will produce the feature alongside seven-time Formula One champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, Plan B Entertainment (‘World War Z’), Jerry Bruckheimer, and Chad Oman of Jerry Bruckheimer Films,” Apple said.
Given Lewis Hamilton’s dual roles as both a producer and an accomplished F1 driver, it’s not difficult to envision his involvement in the film extending beyond a mere cameo appearance.
Top Gun: Maverick is available for streaming on Paramount+.
Source: Cheatsheet
