King of the Hill returned with its fourteenth season on August 4, 2025, streaming exclusively on Hulu. This revival continues the story of the Hill family and their friends in Arlen, Texas, after an eight-year time jump. Hank and Peggy are now retired, and their son Bobby is a young adult pursuing a career as a chef. The season consists of ten episodes, each exploring themes of family, change, and adapting to modern life. Critics and fans have praised the season for maintaining the show’s original charm while introducing new dynamics and contemporary issues.
Ranking of All Episodes
Here is a detailed ranking of all ten episodes of King of the Hill Season 14, from the least favored to the best, based on critical reviews and audience reactions.
10. “Return of the King” (Episode 1)
This episode serves as the season premiere, reintroducing viewers to Arlen after Hank and Peggy’s return from Saudi Arabia. While it effectively sets up the new status quo, critics found it heavy on exposition. The episode focuses on Hank and Peggy adjusting to a modernized Arlen, which feels unfamiliar due to technological and social changes. Bobby is shown as a confident young adult working as a chef, but the episode’s need to establish these changes makes it feel less cohesive compared to others.
9. “Peggy’s Fadeout” (Episode 6)
This episode centers on Bill, who has been lying to his friends about being married to Peggy. Hank discovers the deception and pushes Bill to come clean. While the episode delves into Bill’s longing for connection, it is noted for its emotional depth rather than humor. Peggy overhears Bill’s heartfelt speech about her, which leads to a touching moment. However, some critics felt the plot was overly dramatic compared to the show’s usual tone.
8. “Chore Money, Chore Problems” (Episode 4)
Hank struggles with retirement and joins Boomhauer in a handyman side hustle. The episode highlights Hank’s difficulty with customer service, contrasting with Boomhauer’s natural charm. Meanwhile, Bobby reconnects with his childhood friend Connie, setting up their future relationship. Critics found this episode necessary for character development but less impactful overall.
7. “Kahn-scious Uncoupling” (Episode 8)
Kahn and Minh’s secret divorce is revealed in this episode, disrupting the neighborhood’s dynamics. Kahn confides in Hank, fearing the impact on his reputation. The episode explores themes of image and acceptance but received mixed reviews due to the recasting of Kahn’s voice actor. Some fans felt the new voice did not fully capture the character’s essence.
6. “New Ref in Town” (Episode 5)
Hank’s newfound love for soccer, developed during his time in Saudi Arabia, becomes the focus here. He becomes a referee but keeps it secret, leading Dale to suspect him of being a spy. The episode is filled with humor, including Dale’s exaggerated espionage tactics. It also features heartfelt moments, such as Hank’s appreciation for the sport’s clear rules. This episode is praised for balancing comedy and character growth.
5. “Any Given Hill-Day” (Episode 7)
Bobby’s girlfriend, Willow, joins Hank and Bobby at a Dallas Cowboys fantasy camp. Willow surprises everyone with her football skills, creating a bonding moment with Hank but leaving Bobby feeling left out. The episode contrasts Hank and Willow’s competitive spirits with Bobby’s insecurity. Meanwhile, Peggy deals with a neighborhood crisis involving bedbugs. Critics enjoyed the episode’s humor and emotional depth.
4. “No Hank Left Behind” (Episode 9)
Hank’s half-brother, Good Hank, visits for the summer, leading them to a men’s retreat inspired by toxic masculinity. Hank confronts the retreat’s leader, promoting a healthier form of masculinity focused on respect and vulnerability. This episode is praised for addressing modern issues without losing the show’s heart. It also provides closure to Hank’s struggles with his father’s legacy.
3. “Bobby Gets Grilled” (Episode 3)
Bobby faces challenges at his restaurant when he switches from propane to charcoal grilling, leading to accusations of cultural appropriation. Hank initially disapproves but ultimately respects Bobby’s independence. The episode highlights Bobby’s growth and the evolving father-son relationship. It is celebrated for its thoughtful handling of cultural issues and character development.
2. “The Beer Story” (Episode 2)
Hank and Bobby clash over their beer-brewing styles, with Hank preferring traditional methods and Bobby experimenting with modern flavors. Their competition leads to tension but ends with mutual respect. The episode showcases Bobby’s maturity and Hank’s willingness to acknowledge his son’s expertise. Critics consider it a standout for its humor and emotional resonance.
1. “A Sounder Investment” (Episode 10)
The season finale ties together multiple storylines, including Bobby and Connie’s rekindled romance and Hank’s jealousy over his friends’ successful investments. The episode is fast-paced and filled with humor, culminating in a tribute to the late voice actor Jonathan Joss. Critics and fans alike praised it as the perfect end to the season, combining comedy, heart, and nostalgia.
Production and Cast Details
The fourteenth season of King of the Hill marks a significant transition for the series. It is the first season to stream on Hulu after originally airing on Fox. The show features a time jump of eight years, aging the characters and introducing new dynamics. Mike Judge and Greg Daniels returned as creators, with Saladin Patterson joining as showrunner.
Tragically, the season was affected by the loss of two voice actors. Johnny Hardwick, who voiced Dale Gribble, passed away after recording six episodes. Toby Huss took over the role for the remaining episodes. Jonathan Joss, the voice of John Redcorn, also passed away after recording four episodes. Their contributions are honored in the season.
The cast includes Pamela Adlon as Bobby Hill, whose voice remains unchanged despite the character’s age. Other returning cast members include Kathy Najimy as Peggy Hill and Stephen Root as Bill Dauterive. New voice actors were introduced for roles like Kahn Souphanousinphone, now voiced by Ronny Chieng, to better align with the characters’ ethnicities.
Reception and Impact
King of the Hill Season 14 has been met with critical acclaim. Reviewers praised the season for its balance of humor and heart, as well as its handling of contemporary issues. The show’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots resonated with both new and old fans. The season explores themes such as retirement, modernity, and family bonds with sensitivity and wit.
Hayden Mears of IGN called the season a “top-to-bottom triumph” that recaptures the brilliance of the original series while modernizing its characters .
Slant Magazine described the revival as “quietly ridiculous and deeply familiar,” highlighting its thoughtful approach to current social issues .
The season also includes subtle tributes to past characters and actors, acknowledging the show’s history while moving forward. Its success has already led to a renewal for a fifteenth season.
Also Read: King of the Hill Season 14 Release Time on Hulu: When and Where to Watch the New Episodes
Credits: Collider, IGN, Wikipedia
