Disney and Pixar’s Cars franchise has charmed audiences since 2006, bringing to life a world populated by anthropomorphic vehicles. Cars 3, the latest installment, continues this tradition, introducing new, exciting characters while bringing back beloved favorites. This movie plunges legendary racer Lightning McQueen into a new era of high-tech competitors, forcing him to rediscover his passion for racing. To truly appreciate the personalities of these animated cars, it’s essential to know the talented voice actors who bring them to life. Let’s dive into the world of Cars 3 and meet the memorable Characters From Cars 3 Movie and the stars behind their voices.
Lightning McQueen – Voiced by Owen Wilson
Lightning McQueen, the iconic red race car, remains the heart of the Cars franchise, voiced by the ever-charming Owen Wilson. Wilson, known for his laid-back demeanor and distinctive voice in films like Wedding Crashers, Zoolander, and The Royal Tenenbaums, perfectly embodies McQueen’s confident yet sometimes vulnerable personality. In Cars 3, McQueen faces his biggest challenge yet: the rise of faster, more technologically advanced racers. Wilson’s portrayal captures McQueen’s struggle to stay relevant and his determination to prove he’s still got what it takes. Beyond Cars 3, Wilson has voiced Lightning McQueen in previous Cars movies, shorts, and video games, solidifying his connection with this beloved character.
Cruz Ramirez – Voiced by Cristela Alonzo
Cruz Ramirez, a bright yellow sports car, is a pivotal new character in Cars 3, voiced by comedian and actress Cristela Alonzo. Alonzo, celebrated for her self-titled sitcom Cristela and her role in The Angry Birds Movie 2, brings warmth and optimism to Cruz. As a trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center, Cruz becomes an unexpected mentor and friend to Lightning McQueen. Alonzo’s voice acting perfectly captures Cruz’s enthusiastic spirit and her journey of self-discovery as she finds her own path in the racing world. This role marked Alonzo’s debut in the Cars universe, quickly making Cruz a fan favorite among the characters from Cars 3 movie.
Mater – Voiced by Larry the Cable Guy
Mater, the lovable tow truck and Lightning McQueen’s best friend, is voiced by none other than Larry the Cable Guy. Known for his stand-up comedy and “Git-R-Done” catchphrase, Larry the Cable Guy infuses Mater with his signature down-to-earth charm and humor. Mater provides unwavering support and comic relief throughout the Cars series, and Cars 3 is no exception. He remains a loyal companion to McQueen, offering encouragement and often unconventional advice. Larry the Cable Guy has been the voice of Mater since the original Cars film, becoming synonymous with this iconic character.
Jackson Storm – Voiced by Armie Hammer
Jackson Storm, the sleek, black antagonist of Cars 3, is voiced by Armie Hammer. Hammer, acclaimed for his roles in The Social Network, Call Me By Your Name, and Nocturnal Animals, brings a cool and confident edge to Storm. This next-generation racer represents the new wave of technology threatening to eclipse Lightning McQueen’s legacy. Hammer’s performance perfectly captures Storm’s arrogance and his belief that he embodies the future of racing. Jackson Storm stands out as a compelling addition to the characters from Cars 3 movie, pushing McQueen to his limits.
Sterling – Voiced by Nathan Fillion
Sterling, the charming and business-savvy owner of Rust-eze Racing Center, is voiced by Nathan Fillion. Fillion, beloved for his roles in Firefly, Castle, and The Rookie, lends his smooth voice to Sterling, a character who initially seems to be helping McQueen but harbors his own motivations. Sterling represents the commercial side of racing, focused on trends and success. Fillion’s portrayal captures Sterling’s charismatic yet potentially manipulative nature, adding another layer of complexity to the narrative of Cars 3.
Sally Carrera – Voiced by Bonnie Hunt
Sally Carrera, Lightning McQueen’s Porsche girlfriend, is voiced by the warm and familiar Bonnie Hunt. Hunt, a versatile actress known for Jerry Maguire, The Green Mile, and her extensive voice work in Pixar films like Toy Story and Monsters, Inc., returns to voice Sally in Cars 3. Sally is a constant source of support for McQueen, reminding him of what truly matters and grounding him amidst the racing pressures. Hunt’s voice brings a gentle strength and unwavering loyalty to Sally, making her a cherished character in the Cars universe.
Smokey – Voiced by Chris Cooper
Smokey, a wise old pickup truck and former mentor of Doc Hudson, is voiced by Academy Award-winning actor Chris Cooper. Cooper, known for his roles in Adaptation., American Beauty, and The Patriot, brings gravitas and depth to Smokey. Smokey becomes a crucial figure in Cars 3, offering Lightning McQueen guidance and wisdom from the past. Cooper’s distinctive voice lends Smokey an air of authority and experience, making him a valuable mentor figure in McQueen’s journey.
Luigi – Voiced by Tony Shalhoub
Luigi, the enthusiastic Italian Fiat 500 who runs the tire shop in Radiator Springs, is voiced by Tony Shalhoub. Shalhoub, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor from Monk and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, reprises his role as Luigi in Cars 3. Luigi’s passionate personality and love for Ferrari racing add a touch of international flair to the Radiator Springs crew. Shalhoub’s energetic voice acting perfectly captures Luigi’s excitable and endearing nature.
Miss Fritter – Voiced by Lea DeLaria
Miss Fritter, the intimidating school bus from the demolition derby, is voiced by actress and comedian Lea DeLaria. DeLaria, known for her role in Orange Is the New Black, brings a tough and boisterous energy to Miss Fritter. This imposing character, adorned with license plates of her “victims,” is a force to be reckoned with. DeLaria’s voice acting makes Miss Fritter both fearsome and surprisingly fun, adding a unique flavor to the lineup of characters from Cars 3 movie.
Natalie Certain – Voiced by Kerry Washington
Natalie Certain, a sharp statistician who analyzes racing data, is voiced by Kerry Washington. Washington, Emmy-nominated for her leading role in Scandal and known for Django Unchained, brings intelligence and authority to Natalie. As a character who relies on data and logic, Natalie represents the analytical side of modern racing. Washington’s voice lends Natalie a composed and insightful demeanor, adding a different perspective to the racing world of Cars 3.
Louise Nash – Voiced by Margo Martindale
Louise “Barnstormer” Nash, based on a real-life racing pioneer, is voiced by Emmy-winning actress Margo Martindale. Martindale, acclaimed for her roles in The Americans and Justified, brings a spirited and historical significance to Louise. As a legendary female racer from the past, Louise embodies the rich history of racing and inspires Cruz Ramirez. Martindale’s voice performance captures Louise’s strength and pioneering spirit, highlighting the legacy of women in racing within the characters from Cars 3 movie.
Bob Cutlass – Voiced by Bob Costas
Bob Cutlass, the familiar voice of racing commentary, is voiced by the real-life sports broadcasting legend, Bob Costas. Costas, renowned for his decades of sports coverage, brings authenticity and expertise to the role. Bob Cutlass provides the play-by-play action in the Cars racing world, just as Costas has done for countless real-world sporting events. His presence adds a layer of realism and familiarity for sports enthusiasts watching Cars 3.
Darrell Cartrip – Voiced by Darrell Waltrip
Darrell Cartrip, Bob Cutlass’s commentary partner, is voiced by NASCAR Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip. Waltrip, a celebrated racing analyst and former driver, brings his insider knowledge and enthusiastic commentary to the role. Darrell Cartrip, alongside Bob Cutlass, provides the color commentary for the races in Cars 3, enriching the viewing experience for racing fans. Waltrip’s energetic voice and racing expertise make Darrell Cartrip a memorable part of the Cars broadcast team.
Dusty and Rusty – Voiced by Ray and Tom Magliozzi
Dusty and Rusty, the Rust-eze brothers and original owners of the Rust-eze Racing Center, are voiced by the late Ray and Tom Magliozzi, also known as “Click and Clack” from NPR’s Car Talk. The Magliozzi brothers, beloved for their car advice and humor, lend their distinctive voices to these twin characters. Dusty and Rusty represent the humble beginnings of Rust-eze and add a touch of real-world car expertise to the film, even though their roles are smaller compared to other characters from Cars 3 movie.
River Scott – Voiced by Isiah Whitlock Jr.
River Scott, a character based on real-life racing legend Wendell Scott, is voiced by Isiah Whitlock Jr. Whitlock Jr., known for his roles in The Wire and Veep, brings a quiet dignity and historical weight to River Scott. Wendell Scott was the first African American to win a NASCAR Cup Series race, and River Scott pays tribute to his groundbreaking achievements. Isiah Whitlock Jr.’s portrayal honors this legacy, adding a significant layer of history and representation to the cast of Cars 3.
In conclusion, Cars 3 boasts a vibrant cast of characters from Cars 3 movie, each brought to life by a talented ensemble of voice actors. From returning favorites like Lightning McQueen and Mater to exciting newcomers like Cruz Ramirez and Jackson Storm, the movie offers a rich tapestry of personalities that resonate with audiences of all ages. The voice cast, featuring renowned actors, comedians, and sports figures, elevates the film, making Cars 3 a memorable and entertaining chapter in the beloved Cars franchise.
