In Pixar's Cars, Doc Hudson is the retired racing champion who becomes Radiator Springs' judge and doctor.
Doc initially hides his racing past from Lightning McQueen. He is eventually revealed to be the Fabulous Hudson Hornet, a celebrated racer who won three Piston Cup championships before a crash ended his career.
The character gives the film an older generation of racing history. His frustration comes from being forgotten by the racing world, while Lightning represents the fame-first attitude that Doc dislikes. Doc later helps Lightning understand teamwork and the value of relationships.
Doc Hudson was voiced by Paul Newman, whose own public image as a race-car driver added resonance to the role. Newman died before Cars 2 was produced, so Doc does not appear as a living character in that sequel.