It may just be time to say our final goodbye to the dearly beloved Cars character Doc Hudson.
As you may remember, Paul Newman, the legendary actor who portrayed Pixar’s rendition of the Fabulous Hudson Hornet, passed away in 2008 after a long battle with lung cancer. A great deal of speculation over whether or not we’d see Doc in the upcoming Cars 2 has been discussed in the time between the star’s diagnosis and now. Today, it finally seems we have somewhat of an answer courtesy of Mater himself.
According to a Cable Guy interview in The Whig Standard, a past incarnation of the sequel’s screenplay prominently featured Doc. This was prior to Newman’s death, presumably at the same time John Lasseter publicly expressed that the popular character would return — then tragedy struck. After contemplating using a replacement voice, Pixar finally decided they’d let the character go out of respect for Mr. Newman. "They’ll have some storyline to where he’s moved on or something," said Larry the Cable Guy in the recent interview. The comedian, who will portray Lightning’s new crew chief in the sequel, added that the 2011 film will surely have a tribute to the deceased star.
I’m still curious as to how the filmmakers will smoothly transition the Radiator Springs staple off screen. Maybe they’ll mirror the ’51 Hornet’s premature retirement in the first film, where Paul Newman will live on. Seeing as it’s Pixar, anything goes, but one thing is for sure, it’ll be good. Hopefully the studio and/or director Brad Lewis will release an official statement soon.
Keep checking back for developments on this story. In the meantime, let us know how you feel about the apparent decision to retire ol’ Doc?
(via The Whig Standard)
Last modified: January 9, 2010
D’aww, that’s such sad news… 🙁 But then again, I can’t picture anyone other than Paul Newman portraying the character, so it’s a good thing, in some ways. Rest in peace, both….
—Leirin
I’m reminded of how the Simpsons delt with the character Troy McClure. When Phil Hartman died, they tried to replace the actor, when they realised that it was easier to retire the character.
Same here. It would be better to retire the character than to find not quite an replacement.
Poor Doc. The movie won’t be the same without my favorite Cars character. Well, I guess its for the best. May you rest in peace Fabulous Hudson Hornet. The PIXAR universe sends it’s consolidation.
Maybe Lightning uses the sadness and inspiration of a late Doc to reach forth to achieve his goals while still in prime form in respect of his mentor.
Have a nice little in memory of mention of Mr Newman.
haha maybe when they go on their tour around the US. They will leave him back at radiator springs…does this mean that the radiator springs lot wont appear bcuz they arent racers?
Just thought this was worth a mention (it’s at least somewhat relevant…), today is J. Lasseter’s birthday! 🙂
—Leirin