“King Of The Hill” Voice Actor Johnny Hardwick Dies At Age 64

Johnny Hardwick and Dale Gribble

(Left) Entertainment Tonight / YouTube / (Right) King of the Hill via Entertainment Tonight / YouTube

Johnny Hardwick, Who Voice Dale Gribble On King Of The Hill, Has Died

Johnny Hardwick was a voice actor, comedian, and YouTuber most well-known for playing Hank Hill’s friend Dale Gribble on the animated sitcom King of the Hill. Hardwick voiced Gribble in over 250 episodes of the series and also lent his voice to the King of the Hill PC game.

In addition, Hardwick served as the producer, supervising producer, consulting producer, writer, and story editor across 103 episodes of King of the Hill.

Dale Gribble in King of the Hill
King of the Hill via Entertainment Tonight / YouTube

Police Found Hardwick Dead In His Home On Tuesday, August 8

Police responded to an urgent welfare check, and found Hardwick dead in his home in Austin, Texas on Tuesday (August 8). Hector Nieto from the medical examiner’s office in Austin confirmed with USA Today that Hardwick passed away. He was 64 years old.

USA Today reports that no foul play is suspected in relation to Hardwick’s death. An exact cause of death is pending while the coroner completes their investigation.

20th Television Animation and Hulu shared a statement with USA Today addressing Hardwick’s death. They said:

“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.”

King of the Hill is being revived on Hulu. It was announced earlier this year that Hardwick was returning to voice Gribble. USA Today reports he had the chance to record a few episodes before he passed away.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Hardwick’s friends, family, and all who loved him. May he rest in peace.