Johnny Hardwick, who voiced conspiracy-nut Dale Gribble in Mike Judge and Greg Daniels’ long-running animated comedy series “King of the Hill,” has died. The actor passed away at his home in Austin, Texas. He was 64.
Hardwick had been with the Emmy-winning animated series since its debut in 1997 through its final episode on Fox in 2010. The character, with his distinctive Texas drawl, was one of the show’s colorful – a chain smoking paranoid gun fanatic who distrusts all authority figures.
Earlier this year it was announced Hardwick would return for the series’ upcoming streaming revival. Sadly, he hadn’t completed recording the new season at the time of his death.
A cause of death is pending, and no foul play is suspected. Hulu and 20th Television Animation have issued a statement in the wake of his passing:
“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.”
A voice actor, comedian and YouTuber, Hardwick also served as staff writer, story editor, and producer for the series and won an Emmy for his producing work in 1999.
Source: TV Tonight
