Channing Tatum’s Isle of Man Movie Is Filming During the Race, and He’s in Full Race Kit

Channing Tatum was spotted on the first day of practice for the 2026 Isle of Man TT, shooting for the upcoming feature film, "Isle of Man", which is also being produced by Brad Pitt. Here's what we know from his appearance.

Photo by: Instagram

By: Robbie Bacon

May 27, at 6:34am ET

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One month ago, I told you to keep an eye out for Channing Tatum at this year's Isle of Man TT (IOM TT). I don't want any accusations that I have a mystic ball, but if you check out the embedded reel below, you'll see I was on the money. Truth be told, though, you didn't need much more than a basic awareness of what was happening in Hollywood to see this coming.

Tatum is starring in a feature movie about the IOM TT, aptly named Isle of Man, which he's co-producing with Brad Pitt. So it's hardly a surprise that a Hollywood star was spotted out and about around the Mountain Course, but he wasn't alone, and there were some cool details to occupy fans ahead of the movie's launch.

Alongside Tatum was his Irish co-star, Eve Hewson, and the film's director, Reid Carolin. Although Tatum drew the most attention, as he was seen around the paddock at times walking alongside or sitting on a BMW M1000RR in full TT trim. The actor was sporting a set of leathers and, at times, wearing the orange newcomers' bib, but never got to let out the clutch on the BMW.

The videos from spectators at the TT show Tatum coming up to the start line on his BMW, getting the iconic pat on the back to start his TT lap, before hopping off the bike, and a lookalike hopping on and riding away on the back wheel.

That lookalike or, more aptly, stunt double was James Hillier, who's a 15-time TT podium finisher and 2013 Lightweight TT winner.

Hillier gave up his spot at this year's TT to work on the film, as the producers needed a rider who could provide realistic footage, and those are in short supply. The 41-year-old racer will also act in an advisory role for the film.

What do you think?

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I've already seen some people criticize Tatum for not riding himself, and if you're one of those people, please get real. The actor is known to have a love for motorcycles and even does track days, but it takes a lot more than that to ride the Mountain Course and make it look like you know what you're doing.

I'm sure more will come out as the TT rolls on, so keep your eyes peeled for more Tatum spotting. But who's excited to see the film when it finally comes out?