In Pixar’s Cars, which voice actor played the retired race car Doc Hudson?

Paul Newman voiced the retired race car Doc Hudson in Pixar’s Cars.

Doc Hudson is the quiet judge and physician of Radiator Springs, but the film gradually reveals that he was once the famous “Hudson Hornet,” a three-time Piston Cup champion. His racing career ended after a serious crash and a long period of being ignored by the racing world.

Paul Newman brought particular resonance to the role because he had a real interest in motorsport. He competed professionally in car racing and was part-owner of the Newman/Haas racing team. That background helped make Doc’s memories of racing feel unusually authentic.

Cars was Newman’s final acting performance in a feature film released during his lifetime. He died in 2008. The character’s arc centers on his renewed connection with racing and his mentorship of Lightning McQueen.