In Pixar’s Cars, the former Piston Cup racer who serves as Radiator Springs’ doctor is Doc Hudson.
Doc is introduced as a stern Hudson Hornet who treats Lightning McQueen after the newcomer damages Radiator Springs’ road. He initially hides his racing history, but Lightning learns that Doc was once a celebrated champion known as the Fabulous Hudson Hornet.
Doc won three Piston Cups and was named Rookie of the Year in 1951. His racing career ended after a serious crash and a period in which the racing world moved on without him. He later settles in Radiator Springs and becomes its doctor and judge.
Paul Newman voices Doc in Cars, making the character especially notable because Newman was a real racing enthusiast and competitor. Doc’s legacy influences Lightning’s choices even after Doc’s death before Cars 3.