In Pixar’s Cars, real-life racer Richard Petty voices Strip Weathers, known as The King.
The King is an accomplished veteran Piston Cup racer and a major figure in the film’s opening race. His character is modeled on the dignity and success associated with stock-car champions. Petty’s own voice gives the role an especially direct connection to American motorsport.
Richard Petty is one of NASCAR’s most celebrated drivers. He won a record 200 premier-series races and captured seven championships. His famous racing number was 43, whereas The King’s animated car carries number 43 as well, making the tribute clear.
Jeff Gordon also appears in Cars as a voice actor, but he plays a different racing character, Jeff Gorvette. Dale Earnhardt Jr. voices Junior, while Mario Andretti is associated with other racing appearances. These real racers are easy to mix up because the film includes several motorsport cameos.