Voice actor Johnny Hardwick, best known for his role as Dale Gribble on the animated comedy series “King of the Hill,” has passed away at the age of 64, according to the Austin Police Department. The actor’s death was confirmed following a welfare check call that led to the discovery of his deceased body. While the cause of death is currently unknown, authorities have stated that there is no suspicion of foul play, and the Travis County Medical Examiner will determine the exact cause.
Hardwick’s contribution to “King of the Hill” was substantial, as he provided the voice for Dale Gribble since the show’s inception in 1997. The animated series, created by Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, enjoyed a successful run for 13 years, with a total of 259 episodes before concluding in 2010. In recognition of his outstanding work, Hardwick received an Emmy award in 1999 for the show’s excellence in animation, followed by two more Emmy nominations in 2001 and 2002.
The late actor’s comedic talent extended beyond voice acting, as he began his career in the 1990s as a stand-up comedian. His versatile skills and distinctive voice made Dale Gribble a beloved and memorable character for “King of the Hill” fans. Alongside Hardwick, the show featured an ensemble cast including Kathy Najimy, Stephen Root, and Pamela Adlon, all of whom contributed to its enduring popularity.
News of Hardwick’s passing comes amidst the announcement of a revival for “King of the Hill,” which was confirmed earlier this year. The revival generated excitement among fans, with Hardwick listed as a cast member for the upcoming project. The return of the iconic characters, Hank, Peggy, and Bobby, was anticipated to provide a fresh perspective on the current world, continuing the show’s legacy of incisive social commentary.
“We are all so excited to welcome back Hank, Peggy, and Bobby, and to see what they have to say about the world we live in and continue the conversations we began years ago,” Craig Erwich, president of ABC Entertainment, Hulu, and Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals, said in a statement to Deadline. “This show has all of the perfect ingredients to meet this moment in animation at Hulu, and we’re so thankful to be having those conversations alongside this talented group.”
