In Pixar’s Cars 3, who voices Smokey, Doc Hudson’s former crew chief?

In Pixar’s Cars 3, Chris Cooper voices Smokey, Doc Hudson’s former crew chief.

Smokey lives in Thomasville, a town connected to Doc Hudson’s racing past. When Lightning McQueen visits him, Smokey explains how Doc dealt with the end of his own racing career and helps McQueen understand that a champion’s influence can continue through teaching others.

Smokey becomes an important mentor during McQueen’s training with Cruz Ramirez. He and the other veteran racers use experience-based methods, including exercises inspired by older racing traditions, to rebuild McQueen’s confidence and adaptability.

Chris Cooper is known for film roles including American Beauty and Adaptation, and his grounded voice gives Smokey a measured, knowledgeable presence. Smokey is sometimes confused with Doc Hudson because both are tied to Doc’s racing history, but Smokey is a crew chief and mentor rather than the retired champion himself.