In Pixar's Cars, The King, whose real name is Strip Weathers, races under number 43.
The King is a veteran Piston Cup champion and one of the most respected racers in the first film. He is based visually and narratively on the tradition of legendary stock-car drivers, and his name echoes the nickname used by real racing champion Richard Petty.
The number 43 is also a direct reference to Petty, who raced with that number for much of his career. Richard Petty provides The King's voice in Cars, making the character's connection to NASCAR especially clear.
During the final race, The King is involved in Chick Hicks's deliberate crash. Lightning McQueen chooses to help him instead of taking an easy victory, and The King later praises Lightning's sportsmanship. His blue design and 43 remain important symbols of racing history in the film.