Doc Hudson is the retired racer revealed to be Radiator Springs’ town doctor in Pixar’s Cars (2006).
Doc initially appears to be a stern local judge and physician, but McQueen discovers that he was once the famous Fabulous Hudson Hornet. Doc won three Piston Cups and held the record for the most wins in a single season before a crash ended his racing career and left him feeling forgotten.
His history explains why he resents McQueen’s careless attitude and why he eventually becomes an important mentor. Doc teaches McQueen that racing skill must be matched by humility, judgment, and respect for others.
Paul Newman provided Doc’s voice in Cars, making the role especially notable because Newman was a celebrated real-world actor and former racing enthusiast. Doc’s character is inspired by the Hudson Hornet, a real automobile associated with early NASCAR success. The film does not identify him as a police officer or mechanic; those are roles held by other Radiator Springs residents.