The return of "King of the Hill" to Hulu this month has brought attention to Richardson, which served as the inspiration for the fictional town of Arlen. All ten episodes of season 15 were released on July 20, marking the second season since the show's revival in 2025, with Hulu already renewing it through season 17.
Co-creator Mike Judge has acknowledged Richardson as the model for Arlen, having lived there in the 1990s while developing the series. Although Arlen is a composite of several Dallas-area suburbs, the show captures the essence of mid-century suburban life, featuring wide streets and backyard grills.
This season includes a more direct connection to Richardson, showcasing the University of Texas at Dallas, located in the city’s Telecom Corridor. The campus mascot Temoc and the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering make appearances. Additionally, other North Texas landmarks are featured, including Hank repairing Big Tex at the State Fair of Texas and a Whataburger sighting.
As the season unfolds, Hank and Peggy navigate retirement on Rainey Street, while their son Bobby, now an adult, runs a fusion restaurant in Dallas and aims for a spot on a reality cooking show. The voice cast includes Mike Judge, Kathy Najimy, and Pamela Adlon, among others.
