Richard Petty’s unexpected journey into Hollywood began when he and his wife, Lynda Petty, both contributed their voices to Pixar’s hit film Cars, creating an iconic crossover moment that linked NASCAR history with a beloved childhood movie for millions. This special appearance of the Petty family in Cars left a lasting mark, making the Richard Petty Hollywood crossover uniquely personal and impactful for fans and their family alike.
The Petty Family’s Unique Role in Pixar’s Cars
Racing legends have not only dominated the tracks but, on occasion, have left their mark on the world of entertainment. Richard Petty, one of NASCAR’s most celebrated champions, and his wife Lynda made a rare joint leap into cinema when they became part of Pixar’s cars-centric universe. The film Cars, which quickly became a favorite for a generation of children worldwide, featured Petty as the voice of “The King”—a character closely modeled on his real-life persona.
Initially, Richard Petty hesitated to say yes to Hollywood, but director John Lasseter was determined to get the racing icon involved. Lasseter, understanding the family-oriented spirit that the Pettys embodied, also wanted Lynda’s participation—a decision that transformed a routine casting choice into a heartfelt family affair. This Gamble by Lasseter gave Cars its emotional depth and helped it connect so strongly with audiences.
The Creation of Mrs. The King and Lynda Petty’s Influence
John Lasseter’s meeting with Lynda Petty quickly shaped the film’s cast. Drawn to her character and warmth, Lasseter knew she should be included in the story. His decision led to the birth of an integral new character.
“And… I met his wife, Lynda, and I was so taken by her that, you know, the King has to have a wife, and right then and there we… created Mrs. The King,”
John Lasseter, Director
Lynda Petty became the inspiration for Mrs. The King, and her involvement went beyond acting. In a 2024 YouTube video from Petty Family Racing, Sharon Petty Farlow reflected on the meaningful journey her parents took together in the Cars film, showcasing how both became central to its making. Richard Petty traveled to the Pixar studios to record as “The King,” accompanied by Lynda, who provided steadfast support and energy throughout the process.
Lynda, remembered fondly as the First Lady of NASCAR, voiced Lynda Weathers—a 1974 Chrysler Town and Country station wagon. She was given a choice about which car she would play, and her decision felt natural and deeply personal. Opting for a blue 1969 Ford station wagon, Lynda picked a car that represented her daily life: the trusted family vehicle used for school runs and countless trips to racetracks, making it the perfect model for Mrs. The King.
This choice gave Mrs. The King an authenticity rare in animated family features. The real-life marriage of Richard and Lynda Petty was celebrated on-screen, with both their personalities adding depth to their Cars counterparts. The Pettys became more than legendary figures on the asphalt—their story became woven into pop culture in a lovingly genuine way.
The Petty Legacy Inside and Beyond the Film
Richard Petty’s legendary racing career—with 200 series wins and seven NASCAR Cup Series championships—earned him devotion throughout the motorsports community. Despite this towering success, Petty always remained down-to-earth and accessible, a quality mirrored by his wife throughout her life. Lynda, who passed away in 2014 after bravely facing cancer, was ever-present at Richard’s side, both on the road and off. Her legacy lives on in the small but powerful moments she shared with family and fans alike, including this singular moment in Hollywood.
The impact of including Lynda Petty in Cars extends far beyond the movie’s credits. Through the character of Mrs. The King, Lynda’s voice and personality continue to inspire new generations and remind NASCAR fans of the close-knit, supportive dynamic that defined the Petty family. As Sharon Petty Farlow and other family members recount these stories, the personal touches that Lynda contributed remain cherished.
When a Fan’s Toy Became a Family Treasure
The influence of the Petty family crossover with Hollywood isn’t confined to the screen. For many fans, the Cars film strengthened their admiration for both NASCAR and the Pettys, sometimes leading to unforgettable memories of their own. One Cars and NASCAR devotee demonstrated this connection when he discovered an early Mr. and Mrs. The King diecast toy set in a Walmart, not long after the film’s release. Featuring miniatures of Richard’s iconic Plymouth Superbird and Lynda’s station wagon character, the set held special meaning.
The fan later attended an autograph event where Richard Petty himself was signing memorabilia. Upon seeing the diecast set, Petty admitted it was new to him and that he had never autographed one before. He also shared that Lynda had been eager for such a set, not for herself, but because their grandchildren had been captivated by her character in the animated film after seeing Mrs. The King. Before the fan could say much, Petty quickly signed the collectible for him.
Moved by the moment, the fan encouraged Richard Petty to take the signed diecast set home for Lynda as a keepsake. Though Petty initially hesitated, the fan’s insistence won him over, and he gave the set to his wife as a gift, laughing at the unique situation. Wanting the fan not to leave empty-handed, Richard Petty rummaged for a special crew shirt, signed it, and presented it to the fan in appreciation, telling him it was for the car. Later, when the fan arranged for two more sets to be signed, both Richard and Lynda Petty autographed them, turning them into treasured tokens of not just racing history, but genuine family generosity and warmth.
Why the Petty Hollywood Story Resonates
The Richard Petty Hollywood crossover—rooted in the involvement of both Richard and Lynda Petty within Pixar’s Cars—stands out because it combined NASCAR’s authentic spirit with creative storytelling. This moment encapsulated not only a changing era in entertainment, where athletes could genuinely step into cinematic worlds, but also the ongoing impact of strong families within motorsports.
Lynda Petty’s passing in 2014 closed a remarkable chapter, but the influence of her voice and personality continues to reach children, fans, and even Richard Petty’s own grandchildren every time Mrs. The King makes an appearance, whether on screen or in collectible form. The continued appreciation for these crossover moments highlights the ways family stories intersect with movies and sports, creating lasting connections among audiences and fans. As Cars remains a childhood staple and Richard Petty’s legacy endures, their heartfelt collaboration ensures fans will remember this family affair for generations to come.
