Johnny Hardwick Recorded 6 KING OF THE HILL Revival Episodes Before His Passing
Reboots and revivals have been everywhere lately, allowing fans a chance to reunite with their nostalgic favs. But while fictional worlds can start and stop with ease, the real world also plays a role in the proceedings. Hulu’s
King of the Hill
revival has been in the works for a long time, since 2017. And finally, the return to Texas seemed to be on track to becoming a reality. In January 2023, ABC Entertainment announced that
the
King of the Hill
revival would move forward and would bring with it the original voices of key characters
. Fans of the Hill clan and friends rejoiced, and the show seemed slated to release in 2024. Unfortunately, Johnny Hardwick, a
King of the Hill
stalwart, who was set to reprise his role as Dale Gribble in the revival, passed away not long after the news at the age of 64.
Hardwick appeared in 257 of
King of the Hill
‘s original 258 episodes and also worked as a writer, producer, and more on the show. His passing has left the show’s viewers sorrowful and wondering how the revival will move on. For now, 20th Television Animation and Hulu have shared the following statement. The studios note:
Johnny Hardwick was an incredibly beloved member of the
King of the Hill
family, whose tremendous talent, brilliant humor and friendship will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to work with him over the past 25 years. Our deepest condolences go out to his friends and family as we mourn the loss of one of the animation greats. His voice gave life to one of our most iconic characters, and he will be truly missed.
In the world of fiction, death can exist as a minor obstacle. But our realities are not so fortunate. However, per
TV Line
, it seems there is still a bit more new Dale Gribble awaiting those who have known the character since 1997.
TV Lin
e shares that “Johnny Hardwick completed work on ‘a couple’ episodes of Hulu’s forthcoming
King of the Hill
revival prior to his death.” And we now know that Johnny Hardwick will voice Dale Gribble in six of the
King of the Hill
revival episodes. Voice actor Toby Huss will take over as Dale for the remaining episodes of the season 14 revival.
The fate of Dale Gribble on the
King of the Hill
revival remains unknown, although the show shares that “he remains an extreme skeptic at heart with even wilder conspiracies and half-baked, elaborate schemes.” As a big part of the show, Dale will surely feature prominently on the
King of the Hill
revival. He and Hank had a close friendship, after all. As Dale’s old legacy comes to a close, and his new legacy begins, we’ll pop open a beer in honor of the character and the iconic Johnny Hardwick.
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