Brad Pitt recently admitted that during their time filming Interview with the Vampire, he and Tom Cruise frequently raced go-karts together, but Cruise consistently claimed victory. The revelation about Tom Cruise go-kart racing with Brad Pitt on Interview with the Vampire set, shared during a promotional tour for Pitt’s new film F1, highlights the friendly rivalry and competitive energy between the celebrated actors.
Behind the Scenes of Go-Kart Rivalry During Interview with the Vampire
In the early 1990s, Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise starred together in the gothic drama Interview with the Vampire. Although rumors sometimes hinted at tension between the two Hollywood icons, Pitt’s recent comments shed light on the camaraderie they truly shared while filming. Pitt revealed that their off-set time included regular go-kart racing sessions, providing an energetic and playful break from the intense atmosphere of the set.
This friendly competition quickly became a highlight for both actors, with Pitt openly acknowledging Cruise’s superior skills on the racetrack. When asked who typically won these matches, Pitt did not hesitate to give Cruise his due, saying,
“He got me in the end. I gotta tell you. I gotta admit.”
—Brad Pitt, Actor
The story of their late-night go-kart races paints a vivid picture of two stars, both at the height of their careers, finding joy and release in a shared activity outside of their demanding film schedule. Their off-screen rapport was clear, with remembered nights spent racing as a way to unwind after challenging days on set.
Tom Cruise Praises Brad Pitt’s Racing Abilities and Upcoming Film
As Pitt prepares for the release of his highly anticipated racing film F1, due out in the United States on June 27, 2025, Tom Cruise has been openly supportive. Cruise, who worked with legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Joseph Kosinski on Top Gun: Maverick, has spoken excitedly in interviews about Pitt’s latest venture.
Recalling their shared experiences and Pitt’s driving skills, Cruise explained,
“Brad’s got a new movie, Formula 1, with Jerry Bruckheimer, Joe Kosinski. I can’t wait to see that this summer. It’ll be awesome. It’s great to see Brad driving. He’s very good. He’s a very good driver. Believe me, I’ve raced against him. When we were doing Interview with the Vampire, we’d go and race go-karts. We’d literally finish and go drive go-karts all night.”
—Tom Cruise, Actor
This mutual admiration has been present throughout the promotional campaign for both F1 and Cruise’s Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. During various events, including Paramount 2025’s panel and press appearances, Cruise’s positive remarks about Pitt’s talents and upcoming film have fostered more excitement around its release.
Director Christopher McQuarrie also praised the industry’s collaborative spirit at Cannes, referencing Cruise’s philosophy that “nobody wins unless everybody wins.” This attitude is echoed in the energetic and emotionally charged support both actors have provided for each other’s projects.
Hints About a Possible Future Collaboration—And Pitt’s Unique Condition
Despite speculation about friction during the making of Interview with the Vampire, Pitt’s willingness to work with Cruise again puts those rumors to rest. The two stars have not appeared on screen together since their 1994 collaboration, despite continuing to enjoy successful acting careers and public curiosity about their relationship.
In a recent interview with E! News, Pitt was asked whether he would consider teaming up with Cruise again in a future film. With characteristic humor, Pitt responded:
“Well, I’m not going to hang my a** off airplanes and sh*t like that, so when he does something again, that’s on the ground.”
—Brad Pitt, Actor
This lighthearted stipulation refers to Cruise’s reputation for performing daring stunts, especially those involving high-altitude action sequences, such as in the Mission: Impossible series. Pitt’s comment adds levity, showing mutual respect for Cruise’s adventurous spirit while making it clear where his own comfort zone lies.
Interestingly, director Joseph Kosinski once considered casting both actors in a racing-themed project as far back as 2013. That film never materialized with Cruise and Pitt, but moviegoers later saw a different take in James Mangold‘s Ford v Ferrari. For now, F1 stands as Pitt’s major entrance into the genre, and fans are eager to see if this playful condition might one day lead to another high-profile collaboration between the two stars.
The Significance and Anticipation for F1’s Release
The anecdotes of Tom Cruise go-kart racing with Brad Pitt on Interview with the Vampire set have added a layer of nostalgia and excitement to the buildup surrounding Pitt’s F1. The film, crafted in collaboration with Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer, is set to tap into the global appeal of motorsports and star power, giving audiences a deeper look at racing culture through Pitt’s character. Cruise’s vocal public support further energizes anticipation among fans of both actors.
As the film’s release date approaches, attention remains fixed on the possibility of future joint ventures between Pitt and Cruise. For now, these stories of friendly rivalry, mutual respect, and high-octane competition serve as a testament to the lasting impact both actors have had on Hollywood and each other. Their shared past on the go-kart track continues to spark imagination, raising hopes for new on-screen adventures together in the years to come.
