The highly anticipated revival of Mike Judge and Greg Daniels’ iconic animated series, ‘King of the Hill,’ makes a triumphant return on Hulu for its 14th season, proving that some beloved shows can seamlessly transition into a new era of television. Under the guidance of new showrunner Saladin Patterson, the series successfully navigates the challenge of recapturing its original charm while introducing contemporary themes, a feat many reboots struggle to achieve.
This new season for the King of the Hill franchise commences with a deliberate time jump, offering necessary exposition to re-acclimate audiences to the lives of the cherished residents of Arlen, Texas. Hank and Peggy Hill, the heart of the series, return from a multi-year stint in Saudi Arabia, bringing with them a nuanced perspective on cultural shifts that occurred during their absence.
Upon their return to the United States, Hank and Peggy find themselves humorously bewildered by modern societal norms, including rideshare etiquette, all-gender restrooms, and the concept of “cancel culture.” These initial encounters serve as a narrative device to gently reintroduce the Hills to an evolving world, without allowing the series to devolve into overly simplistic “fish out of water” scenarios, maintaining its characteristic observational humor.
Character developments are thoughtfully integrated, most notably with Bobby Hill, who is now depicted as a 21-year-old co-owner and chef of “Robata Chane,” a unique fusion restaurant. Audiences are also quickly updated on the lives of other fan favorites, including Boomhauer, Dale, Bill, Kahn, Minh, and the subtly evolving relationship between Bobby and Connie, enriching the narrative tapestry of Arlen.
Beyond initial adjustments, the season quickly settles back into the familiar rhythm of King of the Hill, presenting a series of engaging weekly adventures that feel both fresh and true to its roots. These episodes explore relatable everyday challenges, from Hank and Bobby engaging in a spirited beer-brewing competition to marital insecurities arising from a significant anniversary celebration, all grounded in the show’s distinct slice-of-life perspective.
One particularly notable episode, “Bobby Gets Grilled,” delves into the nuanced topic of cultural appropriation, sparked by Bobby’s preference for certain charcoal and the show’s decision to recast characters like Kahn (now voiced by Ronny Chieng) and Joseph (Tai Leclaire). This segment reflects the series’ continued ability to tackle sensitive subjects with a blend of wry humor and accommodating commentary.
The enduring appeal of King of the Hill lies in its distinct ideological worldview, which manages to feel conciliatory and almost therapeutic in today’s fractured landscape, without becoming saccharine. Hank Hill, as the perceived protagonist, embodies a form of compassionate conservatism, demonstrating an underlying empathy and willingness to understand differing perspectives, even if initially challenged, a quality that elevates the series beyond simple comedic fare.
Furthermore, the animated series continues its unique approach to the passage of time, lending the narratives a dramatic weight not commonly found in other unserialized cartoons. Poignant moments, such as Hank and Peggy confronting the realities of retirement or the deepening connection between Bobby and Connie as adults, add significant emotional depth, justifying this welcome Hulu revival and solidifying its place as a cornerstone of adult animation.
