Which real-life NASCAR driver voices The King in Pixar’s Cars?

Richard Petty voices The King in Pixar’s Cars.

The King is a veteran Piston Cup racer whose car design is based on the Plymouth Superbird. He is portrayed as an experienced champion and mentor figure, particularly in relation to rookie racer Lightning McQueen and the final race of the film.

Casting Richard Petty gives the character a direct connection to NASCAR. Petty is one of the sport’s most famous drivers and won the NASCAR Cup Series championship seven times. His real racing identity also helps explain The King’s authoritative, veteran presence.

The character is not voiced by another famous NASCAR personality who appears elsewhere in the Cars franchise. Dale Earnhardt Jr. voices Junior, while Darrell Waltrip voices three-time Piston Cup champion Darrell Cartrip. These real racing connections can make the cast easy to confuse.