Reviving Hank Hill: How 'King of the Hill' Evolved for the 2020s

Approximately 15 years after its debut, "King of the Hill" remains a trusted source of humor and comfort on network television. The animated series, created by Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, skillfully balanced its portrayal of traditionalist Republican Hank Hill, whose views often clashed with contemporary cultural shifts, with a nuanced appreciation of his positive qualities such as diligence and integrity. Despite Hank's conservative stance, the show never reduced him to a mere stereotype. Instead, it offered a satirical yet affectionate glimpse into conservative American life, with characters from the rule-abiding Hank to the conspiracy-theorist Dale Gribble being both humorous and endearing. The series managed to entertain a broad audience by presenting its characters as complex individuals deserving of laughter and empathy. Throughout its run, "King of the Hill" exemplified a delicate balance—criticizing societal trends while celebrating core American virtues—making it relevant even in the evolving landscape of the 2020s.