NASCAR Shakes Up California Labor Day Weekend

Hollywood Stars Flock to NASCAR

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Sept. 3 -- NASCAR's popularity as a sport has grown over the past several years, and so has its popularity in Hollywood. With over 75 million NASCAR fans across the country, it only makes sense that the music, TV and film industries cash in on what many Fortune 500 companies have known for years -- fast cars and entertainment make sense.

Many movie producers have recognized the power of NASCAR as a marketing platform. Throughout the year, many cars feature paint schemes promoting upcoming movies. This season has already seen The Punisher, The Hulk, Shrek 2 and Spiderman 2 adorn the hoods of cars.

NASCAR has also had success on the world's largest screen with the release of NASCAR 3D: The IMAX Experience in March. The film, which opened on 68 screens, set the record for both the highest grossing opening weekend for an IMAX originally produced film and the highest per-screen average for an IMAX 3D film.

Musical artists are among the stars drawn to the allure of NASCAR. Puddle of Mudd and 3 Doors Down have had paint schemes promoting their music. Stars such as Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and Lenny Kravitz have participated in pre-race festivities. Next week, at Richmond International Raceway, one car from each of NASCAR's three national series will have a paint scheme honoring Rock and Roll legends KISS.

NASCAR's leap into Hollywood stardom has also spread to the television industry. Casey Mears (No. 41 Target Dodge) recently made a cameo appearance on an episode of "Days of Our Lives." Game shows such as "Wheel of Fortune," "Pyramid" and "Family Feud" have featured NASCAR-themed episodes with several drivers competing for their favorite charities.

With this weekend's race at California Speedway, expect many of Hollywood's finest to attend the race. The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Pop Secret 500 can be seen Sunday at 4:00 p.m. PDT on NBC. The NASCAR Busch Series Target House 300 airs Saturday at noon PDT on NBC.

For more information, please contact: NASCAR Public Relations, (386) 253-0611.

NOTE TO EDITORS: This is the fifth release in a series of five.