King of the Hill Returns: Every North Texas Nod in Season 14

The beloved animated sitcom “King of the Hill” is back, and its return season is packed with more North Texas references than ever, solidifying its deep roots in the Lone Star State. Fans of Hank, Peggy, and Bobby Hill can now stream all 10 new episodes, offering a fresh look at life in the fictional DFW-area suburb of Arlen.

Arlen’s Return to North Texas

After a 13-season run on FOX that concluded in 2010, “King of the Hill” makes its highly anticipated return with Season 14 on Hulu. This new chapter sees Hank and Peggy Hill returning to Arlen after a stint in Saudi Arabia. As they resettle, they discover their home, and Texas itself, has undergone significant changes. Show creator Mike Judge has previously stated that North Texas’ Richardson served as the inspiration for Arlen in the original series, and this new season continues to draw heavily from the DFW metroplex.

Spotting Familiar DFW Landmarks & Culture

From airports to presidential libraries, the new season is a treasure trove for Dallas-Fort Worth locals.

Airport & Academia

• DFW International Airport: Hank’s grand return includes a dramatic kiss to the ground at what appears to be Terminal D, noting the airport’s upscale transformation.
• Southern Methodist University (SMU) & University of Texas at Dallas (UTD): Bobby’s new German-Japanese fusion restaurant is located near SMU, while his old flame Connie is now a student at UTD.

Shopping, Sips & Local Brews

• Mega Lo Mart: Arlen’s iconic big box store returns, serving as a stand-in for regional giants like Costco or H-E-B, and even inspired by Garland’s former Walmart Hypermart.
• Alamo Beer: Hank and the gang are back to their street-side beer sessions. Excitingly, Alamo Beer is now available for purchase in the real world!
• Dallas Brewery Contest: An episode featuring a home-brewing competition reflects North Texas’ vibrant craft beer scene, reminiscent of local favorites like Rahr & Sons, Martin House, and Peticolas Brewing.

Dallas’ Dark & Political History

• Dealey Plaza & Kennedy Assassination: Joseph’s work on a road crew near Dealey Plaza in Dallas provides a nod to this historic and somber site, with a humorous tie-in to Dale’s conspiracy theories.
• George W. Bush Presidential Center: The Hills and Gribbles visit this Dallas landmark, offering a satirical look at its exhibits, including the “situation room” experience.
• The Zapruder Film: Another reference to the JFK assassination, highlighting Dallas’s enduring connection to the event.

Local Celebrities & Character

• LeAnn Rimes: The Garland-born country singer’s hit “How Do I Live” is performed by Bobby and Connie, giving a shout-out to a local musical icon.
• Bronco Barry: This larger-than-life car salesman, with his dealership off I-635, is a clear caricature of well-known DFW auto dealers like Clay Cooley or David McDavid.
• Plano South Soccer: Hank’s surprising passion for soccer leads him to referee a match against Plano South, grounding the show in relatable suburban sports rivalries.
• “Smart Dallas Restaurant Rats”: A humorous dig at urban pests, following a recent real-life incident at a Plano restaurant.

Cowboys Culture & Beyond

• Dallas Cowboys, Jerry Jones & AT&T Stadium: Episode 7 is a full-blown Cowboys spectacle, featuring Micah Parsons (voicing himself), references to Tony Romo and Trevon Diggs, and even a dramatic act of vandalism at Jerry Jones’ office.
• Fort Worth Bed Bugs: A B-plot involving a bed bug infestation sees Dale Gribble attempting to blame Fort Worth, playing on regional rivalries.
• Dallas Symphony Orchestra: Bobby and Connie’s adult first date takes them to the Meyerson Symphony Center, showcasing Dallas’s cultural offerings.
• Nolan Ryan: The legendary Texas Rangers pitcher and businessman makes a cameo, voicing himself and highlighting his post-baseball career in ranch products.

Here’s a quick look at some of the inspirations behind Arlen’s world:

Legacy & Local Impact

Remembering Voices: Hardwick and Joss

The new season also pays poignant tribute to original cast members Johnny Hardwick (Dale Gribble) and Jonathan Joss (John Redcorn), who passed away before or during the production of the revival. Both received “In Loving Memory” dedications, honoring their significant contributions to the show’s legacy and their real-world Texas roots.

Beyond the laughs, “King of the Hill” continues to be a heartfelt, often satirical, mirror to Texan life. The specific and numerous North Texas references in Season 14 ensure that local audiences feel a special connection, recognizing their own world reflected on screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Arlen, Texas a real place?
  While Arlen is a fictional suburb, it’s heavily inspired by Richardson, a real city in North Texas, and serves as a stand-in for many DFW metroplex communities.
• What are the most prominent North Texas cities referenced?
  Dallas and Fort Worth are frequently mentioned, alongside specific DFW landmarks, universities like SMU and UTD, and cultural touchstones.
• Did the original voice actors return for Season 14?
  Many original cast members returned. Johnny Hardwick (Dale Gribble) and Jonathan Joss (John Redcorn) recorded lines before their passing and are honored in the new season.
• Can I buy Alamo Beer in real life?
  Yes! The fictional beer from the show has made the leap to reality and is now available for purchase.
• How does the new season portray changes in Texas?
  The show highlights Arlen’s evolution, from the modernization of DFW Airport to the changing culinary landscape and the Hills’ perception of modern Texas culture.

As “King of the Hill” re-establishes its place in popular culture, its keen observations and affectionate jabs at North Texas life make it essential viewing for anyone who calls the DFW area home.

King of the Hill returns Arlen back in North Texas