Which actor voiced Sterling, the racing businessman in Pixar's Cars 3?

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Nathan Fillion voiced Sterling, the racing businessman in Pixar's Cars 3.

Sterling is the wealthy owner of the Rust-eze racing team and becomes Lightning McQueen's new business manager after Rust-eze is acquired. He offers Lightning access to advanced training facilities and expects him to return to winning form against younger racers such as Jackson Storm.

Nathan Fillion, known for television and film roles including Castle and Firefly, provides Sterling's voice. The casting gives Sterling a polished, confident sound that contrasts with Lightning's uncertainty and Cruz Ramirez's more personal connection to racing.

Sterling's business decisions also drive the film's conflict. He wants results and market value, while Lightning ultimately becomes more interested in helping Cruz develop as a racer. Sterling should not be confused with Smokey, Doc Hudson's former crew chief, or Rusty and Dusty Rust-eze, the original company founders.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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