The King of the Hill revival is sparking excitement among fans as Hulu prepares to bring back the beloved animated sitcom this summer. After a 15-year hiatus, the show returns with a fresh perspective, a modernized setting, and a time jump that ages its iconic characters. Set to premiere on August 4, 2025, this reboot promises to blend nostalgia with contemporary humor, capturing the essence of Arlen, Texas, in a new era. With original creators Mike Judge and Greg Daniels at the helm, alongside a talented voice cast, the revival is poised to rekindle the charm that made the series a cult classic.
What’s New in the King of the Hill Revival?
The King of the Hill revival introduces a significant time jump, setting the story nearly a decade after the original series ended in 2010. Bobby Hill, once the quirky 12-year-old, is now 21 and working as a chef in Dallas, bringing a fresh dynamic to the Hill family. Hank Hill, the ever-traditional propane salesman, and his wife Peggy return to Arlen after years abroad, with Hank having worked a propane job in Saudi Arabia. The show’s core group—Dale, Bill, and Boomhauer—remains, but they’re visibly older, reflecting the passage of time. This modern setting allows the series to explore current cultural shifts while maintaining its signature grounded humor.
The revival’s first season will feature 10 episodes, a format tailored for Hulu’s streaming model. A second season is already in discussion, signaling confidence in the project. Fans can expect the show to retain its episodic, slice-of-life storytelling, with subtle continuity weaving through the episodes. The revival also introduces modern elements, like Dale sporting a VR headset and Bill embracing food delivery services, hinting at how Arlen’s residents adapt to today’s world.
A Fresh Opening Sequence for the King of the Hill Revival
Hulu recently unveiled the new opening sequence for the King of the Hill revival, offering a glimpse into its updated vibe. The sequence begins with Hank joining Dale, Bill, and Boomhauer in their familiar alley, cracking open a beer. As the pace quickens, a time-lapse showcases Arlen’s residents going about their daily lives, with the quartet steadily drinking as empty cans pile up in a recycling bin. The sequence nods to the pandemic era, with some characters wearing face masks, and concludes with a heartfelt parody of American Gothic featuring Hank, Peggy, and Bobby. This opening blends nostalgia with a modern twist, setting the tone for the reboot.
| Key Elements of the New Opening Sequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Setting | The iconic alley behind the Hill residence |
| Time-Lapse Feature | Depicts Arlen’s daily life, emphasizing the time jump |
| Modern Touches | Face masks and contemporary activities reflect 2025 |
| Closing Visual | Hank, Peggy, and Bobby in an American Gothic parody |
Returning Cast and Creative Team
The King of the Hill revival brings back most of the original voice cast, ensuring authenticity. Mike Judge reprises his roles as Hank Hill and Boomhauer, while Kathy Najimy voices Peggy, Pamela Adlon returns as Bobby, and Stephen Root plays Bill. Lauren Tom is back as Connie, adding continuity to the neighborhood. Tragically, Johnny Hardwick, who voiced Dale Gribble, passed away in 2023 but completed recordings for a few episodes, ensuring Dale’s presence, though likely limited. The absence of Brittany Murphy (Luanne) and Tom Petty (Lucky) will also shape the story, though details on how their characters will be handled remain undisclosed.
Mike Judge and Greg Daniels lead the creative team, with Saladin K. Patterson as showrunner, bringing a fresh perspective while preserving the show’s heart. Produced by Bandera Entertainment and 20th Television Animation, the revival balances the original tone with new voices from a younger writing team, adapting classic themes to 2025.
Why Fans Are Buzzing
Anticipation is high as the King of the Hill revival approaches its August 4 premiere. A special panel at the ATX TV Festival on May 30, 2025, in Austin will feature Judge, Daniels, Patterson, and cast members like Adlon, Tom, and Toby Huss. Attendees will get a sneak peek, followed by a backyard BBQ celebrating the show’s Texas roots. Hulu’s partnership with Alamo Beer Co. to release a King of the Hill-inspired beer adds a fun, real-world tie-in for fans. The revival’s ability to tackle modern issues—like technology and generational gaps—while staying true to its small-town charm has fans eager to return to Arlen.
The show’s grounded humor and relatable characters set it apart from flashier animated series. Hank’s discomfort with change, juxtaposed with Bobby’s modern ambitions, promises both laughs and poignant moments. With production wrapped in October 2024 and a tight 10-episode season, the revival is shaping up as a love letter to longtime fans and a welcome entry for newcomers.
Mark your calendars for August 4, 2025, and grab a Hulu subscription to catch the King of the Hill revival. Join the conversation online, share your favorite Arlen memories, and get ready to crack open a cold one with Hank and the gang!