Johnny Hardwick, best known for his role as Dale Gribble on “King of the Hill,” has passed away at the age of 64. Law enforcement sources discovered his body at his Texas home and no foul play is suspected. Hardwick was a talented voice actor and comedian, with 258 episodes of “King of the Hill” under his belt. He also covered songs on his YouTube channel, showcasing his character’s quirks. RIP.TMZ Staff reported
Johnny Hardwick, renowned for his portrayal of Dale Gribble on the hit television show “King of the Hill,” has sadly passed away.
Law enforcement authorities have reported that they were called to Hardwick’s residence in Texas on Tuesday for a welfare check and discovered his lifeless body. Hardwick was pronounced dead at the scene, and foul play is not suspected. The exact cause of death is yet to be determined.
Johnny began his career in stand-up comedy in Texas in 1990 and later made his first stand-up appearance on “The Jon Stewart Show” a few years later.
Johnny is most widely recognized for his portrayal of Dale, the conspiracy theory-obsessed friend of the show’s main character, Hank Hill, on the long-running animated sitcom “King of the Hill.”
Dale took on various occupations throughout the series, including exterminator, camp counselor, bounty hunter, and propane salesman.
Johnny lent his voice to an impressive 258 episodes of the show. It is worth noting that “King of the Hill” aired a total of 259 episodes.
Johnny was involved with the show from its inception, portraying Dale in the very first episode that aired in January 1997 and remained with the series until its final episode in 2010. He was also listed as returning for a revival of the show, although it is unclear if he had recorded any episodes for it.
In addition to the show, Johnny would cover songs on his YouTube channel while wearing his character’s trademark orange hat and sunglasses, delivering performances reminiscent of Dale’s antics on the show and even referencing his famous “pocket sand” attack move.
Johnny was 64 years old at the time of his passing.
Rest in peace.
