In Pixar’s Cars, what is the real name of The King?

In Pixar’s Cars, The King’s real name is Strip Weathers. He is a veteran Piston Cup racer whose blue paint scheme and number 43 evoke the famous NASCAR driver Richard Petty.

The King serves as an example of an established champion nearing the end of his career. He is calm and respected, in contrast to the ambitious Lightning McQueen and the aggressive Chick Hicks. During the final race, Hicks causes The King to crash while fighting for position.

Richard Petty voices The King in the English version, making the character’s connection to stock-car racing especially direct. The character’s nickname is used far more often than his given name, which is why viewers can miss “Strip Weathers.” The King’s crew chief is also modeled after real racing traditions.