You can forgive some people for figuring Paul Newman would be around forever — including the people at Pixar.

Before Newman’s death in Sept. 2008, his character of Doc Hudson in the movie Cars apparently was set to feature prominently in the sequel (only the second sequel the company has made, after Toy Story).

“It’s a shame he’s still not around,” says Larry The Cable Guy, who’s been reprising the voice of the Southern-fried tow truck Tow Mater in Cars 2 since last summer. “They were thinking about getting a voice to sound like him. But then they decided it would be disrespectful, and I agree. You can’t impersonate one of the greats.

“They’ll have some storyline to where he’s moved on or something, and maybe they’re going to do some kind of tribute or something at the end. I’d like to tell you more, but I’m sworn to secrecy.”

Cars 2 is scheduled for release in summer 2011.

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Chip (6718 Posts)

Chip is owner of and webmaster of Chip and Co - Your source for Disney Park News, Planning Tips, Giveaways, and More. When he is not writing about Disney News, or Planning Tips, you will find him counting down the days to his next Disney World Vacation. Watch for him at the 2013 D23 Expo or over on the Chip and Co Facebook Page.