The King, also called Strip Weathers, is the Pixar Cars character based on NASCAR legend Richard Petty.
The King is an accomplished veteran race car and a seven-time Piston Cup champion. Richard Petty, who voices the character, is also a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and is famous for racing car number 43.
The character's full name is Strip Weathers, but he is commonly known by his title, The King. His calm professionalism contrasts with Chick Hicks's aggressive behavior and gives Lightning McQueen an example of respected championship conduct.
Doc Hudson is inspired by the Hudson Hornet and voiced by Paul Newman, not Richard Petty. Chick Hicks is voiced by Michael Keaton, while Strip Weathers Jr. is not the established name of the character. These distinctions help separate the fictional racing roster from the real driver who supplied The King's voice.