Lewis Hamilton Regrets Turning Down Offer for Role in Top Gun: Maverick

Jakarta, Beritasatu.com – Formula 1 racer Lewis Hamilton has expressed his regret at turning down an offer to play a role in a film Top Gun: Maverick (2022) starring Tom Cruise.

Hamilton shared his regrets in an interview with the magazine GQ. He revealed that he had a friendly relationship with Cruise after being invited by the actor to the film set Edge of Tomorrow (2014).

The two continue to keep in touch. Tom Cruise often sends messages of encouragement to Hamilton before races, and Hamilton has also been asked to play a role in a film sequel Top Gunbefore production Top Gun: Maverick started.

“Guys, if you're filming Top Gun 2, I'm even ready to be a cleaner. Let me be in it,” as reported by The Hollywood ReporterMonday (8/4/2024).

When production on the sequel entered pre-production, Cruise remembered Hamilton's request and introduced him to director Joseph Kosinski, who eventually offered Hamilton the role of a pilot.

However, due to his busy schedule, including racing for the 2018 F1 season, as well as his lack of acting experience, Hamilton turned down the offer. Hamilton admitted he regretted his decision after watching Top Gun: Maverick.

“Firstly, I had no experience in acting, and I didn't want to spoil the film. And secondly, I didn't have the time to devote to it,” he said.

“I remember having to tell Joe and Tom, and it broke my heart. Then I regretted it. When they showed the film, I was like 'I should have played in',” he added.

Hamilton himself had the opportunity to work with Kosinski in the latest Formula 1 film project, starring Brad Pitt. Hamilton was instrumental in ensuring the film provided an accurate representation of the international racing event.