King of the Hill is more than just an animated sitcom—it’s a slice of Americana that captured the hearts of millions from 1997 to 2010. Created by Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, this Emmy-winning show has remained a fan favorite for its subtle humor, relatable characters, and thoughtful commentary on American life. With a King of the Hill reboot in the works, there’s renewed excitement around Arlen, Texas, and its unforgettable residents.
In this article, we’ll explore the legacy of King of the Hill, take a look at the King of the Hill cast, and dive into beloved characters like Bobby King of the Hill and Dale King of the Hill. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer preparing for the reboot, here’s everything you need to know.
The Legacy of King of the Hill
When King of the Hill premiered on Fox in 1997, it stood apart from other animated shows. While its peers focused on exaggerated plots and outlandish humor, King of the Hill thrived on realism. The show followed Hank Hill, a propane salesman, and his quirky but lovable family and neighbors as they navigated everyday life in suburban Texas.
Over its 13-season run, King of the Hill tackled real-world topics—parenting, politics, friendship, and changing cultural values—always with a dose of dry humor and heart. It earned a devoted following and critical acclaim, solidifying its place as one of the most grounded animated series in TV history.
Meet the Iconic King of the Hill Cast
The King of the Hill cast brought the show’s nuanced writing to life, and many of the voice actors have become synonymous with their characters:
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Mike Judge voiced Hank Hill, the straight-laced patriarch with a love for propane and Texas traditions.
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Pamela Adlon voiced Bobby Hill, Hank’s eccentric son, whose unique personality often clashed with his father’s expectations.
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Kathy Najimy gave voice to Peggy Hill, the confident (and often overconfident) substitute teacher.
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Johnny Hardwick, who sadly passed in 2023, voiced the conspiracy-loving Dale Gribble.
This ensemble brought authenticity and emotional depth to their characters, creating one of the most memorable animated casts in television.
Bobby King of the Hill: The Heart of the Series
No character embodies the charm and comedy of King of the Hill quite like Bobby Hill. Voiced by Pamela Adlon, Bobby is Hank and Peggy’s only child—a lovable goofball with an unpredictable sense of humor and surprisingly sharp wit.
Unlike his conservative father, Bobby King of the Hill dreams of comedy, drama, and social acceptance. His imaginative personality and signature catchphrases (like “That’s my purse! I don’t know you!”) made him a breakout character and fan favorite. Bobby’s relationship with Hank—full of misunderstanding but ultimately deep love—is one of the emotional cores of the series.
Dale King of the Hill: Conspiracy King and Comic Relief
Another standout character is Dale Gribble, voiced by Johnny Hardwick. Known for his ever-present sunglasses and alias “Rusty Shackleford,” Dale King of the Hill is a conspiracy theorist who’s hilariously unaware of the world around him.
Despite his paranoia and cluelessness—especially regarding his wife’s affair—Dale remains oddly lovable. His loyalty to his friends, especially Hank, and his bizarre commentary on society provided many of the show’s funniest moments. Dale’s off-the-wall theories and trademark cigarette tosses are King of the Hill gold.
King of the Hill Reboot: What We Know So Far
In early 2023, it was officially confirmed that a King of the Hill reboot is in development with Hulu. This exciting news has reignited interest in the show and left fans eager for updates.
The reboot will see original creators Mike Judge and Greg Daniels return, along with several core cast members. While the exact plot and setting haven’t been fully revealed, the reboot is expected to feature time progression—meaning we’ll see characters like Bobby and Joseph as adults.
This new chapter offers a chance to explore how the Hills and their neighbors have adapted to modern issues. With smart writing and updated themes, the King of the Hill reboot could attract a new generation of viewers while satisfying longtime fans.
Why King of the Hill Remains Relevant
Even more than a decade after its finale, King of the Hill remains relevant. Its grounded storytelling, emphasis on family values, and commentary on American life continue to resonate today.
The show’s subtle humor and attention to detail make it infinitely rewatchable. And with the world rapidly changing, the return of this grounded, thoughtful animated series feels more timely than ever.
King of the Hill Is Back and Better Than Ever
Whether you’re revisiting old episodes or eagerly awaiting the reboot, King of the Hill holds a special place in the world of animated TV. From Bobby King of the Hill’s hilarious one-liners to Dale King of the Hill’s unforgettable antics, the series is packed with iconic moments that still make fans laugh and think.
As we look forward to the King of the Hill reboot, there’s no better time to celebrate the legacy of this beloved show and the talented King of the Hill cast who brought it all to life.
