10 Best Bobby Episodes to Watch Before King of the Hill’s Revival

As we approach a nearly decade-long jump for the characters in the revival of “King of the Hill,” fans will have the opportunity to witness Bobby Hill grow beyond his teenage years. Given this exciting development, now seems like an ideal moment to re-explore some of the series’ most outstanding episodes that focus on Bobby, the adorably awkward and insatiably curious son of Hank and Peggy. Bobby is undeniably one of the most iconic characters in animated television, encapsulating a unique blend of innocence, ambition, and peculiarity that set the show apart.

Here are the standout episodes that offer the most comprehensive view of Bobby Hill prior to the upcoming revival. These episodes are not to be missed!

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In the following list, you’ll find the unmissable episodes that provide a well-rounded portrayal of Bobby Hill before the much-anticipated comeback. Make sure to catch these episodes!

10) “Life in the Fast Lane: Bobby’s Saga” (Season 2, Episode 21)

In “Life in the Fast Lane: Bobby’s Story,” Hank tries to instill the value of hard work in his son, Bobby, by getting him a job at the racetrack. However, what Hank doesn’t realize is that Jimmy Wichard, Bobby’s boss, is mentally unbalanced. Right from the beginning, Bobby finds himself in a challenging work environment under Wichard. The harsh and unpredictable behavior of his boss forces Bobby to grapple with the tough aspects of work and responsibility much sooner than he ever expected.

Disheartened, he heads home to consult with Hank, who encourages his son to persevere instead of giving up. This moment marks a pivotal point for Bobby as he chooses to confront the challenge directly rather than fleeing from it. However, when Wichard’s threats put Bobby’s life at risk, Hank steps in to protect him.

Following the event, Bobby declines Hank’s monetary offer for his work, asserting that he undertook it not for money, but to validate something – both within himself and among those around him. This subtle yet impactful statement signifies a significant stride in Bobby’s path towards self-assurance and autonomy.

9) “And They Call It Bobby Love” (Season 3, Episode 2)

The title ‘And They Call It Bobby Love’ aptly reflects the heartfelt turmoil of adolescent feelings, portrayed uniquely through Bobby’s endearing charm and purity. This is his initial exploration into romance, a theme that brings both laughter and genuine sentiment to the series King of the Hill. The episode encapsulates the awkwardness and purity of early crushes as Bobby attempts to win over a girl, dealing with the mixed emotions and sincerity typical of youthful love.

The allure in this episode is found in its depiction of Bobby’s sincerity, which stands out strikingly amidst the frequent sarcasm or cynicism prevalent elsewhere. Bobby’s distinct viewpoint on relationships and his heartfelt efforts to show affection make this episode particularly impactful. It serves as a reminder of why Bobby continues to be cherished by many.

Above all, the series handles Bobby’s emotions sensitively instead of making fun of them. The scene where he eats the steak isn’t merely humorous; it’s a powerful instance where Bobby regains his self-worth under his own conditions.

8) “What Makes Bobby Run?” (Season 5, Episode 7)

In this episode, instead of being the class jester, Bobby finds himself adopting the position of the school mascot instead.

As a proud McMaynerbury mascot, I soon discover that this role comes with an agonizing custom known as the “McMaynerbury’s Whuppin’s.” In this tradition, if our Arlen team is leading during games, the rival band takes it upon themselves to dish out physical punishment to our mascot. The anticipation of such an event was palpable at my first game, and when Arlen began to pull ahead, fear gripped me. I fled the stadium in a heartbeat. Upon returning to school, I faced nothing but ridicule from my peers.

Nevertheless, he manages to make amends for his actions in two ways: first, as the iconic mascot, Landry Longhorn, and second, as an admirable student at Arlen’s Tom Landry Middle School. In a daring move, he breaks into a rival school, retrieves their armadillo mascot, and triumphantly displays it at the following game.

In “What Makes Bobby Run?”, Bobby’s story is not merely about victory or fame. Instead, it’s a tale of perseverance and self-realization. From experiencing heartbreak to feeling fear, from humiliation to bravery, Bobby understands that real power lies in confronting difficulties directly and choosing not to be defined by obstacles.

7) “An Officer and a Gentle Boy” (Season 7, Episode 15)

In the story titled “An Officer and a Gentleman,” Bobby is pushed to his limits as a consequence for showing disrespect towards Hank, which leads him to attend a military academy.

Upon reaching Fort Berk, Bobby seamlessly adapts, flourishing in the organized setting without having to sacrifice his unique character. He effortlessly adjusts to the routine, earning appreciation from both instructors and peers. In an art class, he creates a charming, eccentric, and undeniably Bobby-esque bowl.

However, Bobby’s grandfather, Cotton, is not at all pleased. To him, the contemporary educational system is too lenient, a departure from the rigorous institution he once attended. Instead of accepting this change, Cotton takes charge of the school and pushes Bobby to his limits. Despite the challenges, Bobby remains resilient, embodying the same peculiar calmness and determined nature that characterizes his humor and endearing quirks.

Essentially, this episode showcases a significant change in Bobby’s character, not driven by brute force or strict adherence to rules, but rather by his inner peace and strong self-identity.

6) “The Son Also Roses” (Season 7, Episode 6)

When Bobby grows tired of being the Landry football team’s towel boy, he seeks out a more suitable challenge, drawing inspiration from Minh’s beautiful rose garden.

Instead of keeping it hidden, Bobby opts to cultivate roses on his own. When Hank discovers this secret, he’s perplexed but decides to aid Bobby in preparation for a local rose contest. Yet, Hank’s competitive nature takes over and ultimately leads to Bobby’s submission being ruled ineligible.

In spite of the obstacle, Bobby remains undeterred. He takes pride in the work he accomplished, finding fulfillment in the journey rather than the reward. For the first time, Hank recognizes that his son doesn’t require a trophy to validate his worth. The episode concludes with them planting roses together, marking Hank’s acceptance of Bobby’s unique qualities. It’s a quiet, heartfelt tale depicting personal development for both father and son.

5) “Bobby Goes Nuts” (Season 6, Episode 1)

This “King of the Hill” episode is an undeniable classic. There’s one scene that has risen above the series to gain universal recognition – it’s Bobby Hill boldly asserting his possession and refusing a stranger: “That’s my purse! I don’t know you!

The story begins as Bobby experiences bullying at the mall, finding Hank’s suggestion to “brush it off” unhelpful. In reaction, Bobby decides to join a women’s self-defense course. During this training, he learns a tactic focusing on kicks to the groin. When he uses his skills to defeat his tormentor, it results in a truly uplifting victory.

This episode stands out, beyond its humor and catchphrases, because it showcases Bobby at his bravest when you least expect it. It’s an unusual, absurd, yet empowering stance not only against bullies but also against a societal norm that defines strength in young men narrowly. Bobby chooses to break free from this mold, crafting his unique path instead.

This installment delves into the intricate family relationships within the Hill clan, focusing on the contrast between Hank’s traditional values and Bobby’s less orthodox approach.

4) “The Boy Can’t Help It” (Season 13, Episode 19)

In “The Boy Can’t Help It,” we get another glimpse into Bobby’s romantic struggles as he grapples with finding a date for the upcoming homecoming dance. Feeling down after facing rejection, his spirits are lifted when three sophisticated college-bound girls show interest in him. However, unaware of their true intentions, he mistakenly assumes they’re all planning to attend the dance together.

As Hank watches, he becomes more and more worried, noticing that Bobby seems to be under someone’s control, but Bobby is so engrossed in the admiration that he fails to notice. When the girls decide to skip the dance for a party beneath the bleachers, Bobby follows suit, unaware of his status being downgraded from potential boyfriend to simply “cute” and “harmless.” Feeling hurt and ashamed, Bobby leaves, right as Hank happens upon him. However, when the girls are subjected to harassment, Bobby acts swiftly without a moment’s pause.

Ultimately, Bobby’s heartache transforms into a subtle rite of passage. Despite being turned down, he still chooses to act honorably and safeguard those who have spurned him. Moreover, it is during this time that Hank gains a fresh perspective on his son’s moral fiber.

3) “A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Clown” (Season 10, Episode 5)

In Bobby’s case, his mischievous pranks using whoopee cushions at school, church, and dinner earned him an opportunity to attend clown college. Overjoyed, Bobby threw himself into the program, expecting a fun and lively experience. However, he found that the professor, Professor Twilley, took humor very seriously and strictly, often disregarding Bobby’s intuitive approaches.

Determined to make the most of his opportunity, Bobby worked hard, learning about commedia dell’arte and creating a character named Tartuffe the Spry Wonder Dog. Professor Twilley was pleased with Bobby’s efforts, but as Bobby’s enthusiasm for comedy started to wane, he struggled to find joy in the program.

At the school’s talent show, Bobby introduces his fresh act, but encounters bewilderment and jeers instead. In the midst of performing, he seizes a whoopee cushion from Hank, regaining his knack for humor. The audience bursts into laughter, teaching Bobby that his funniest moments stem from being genuinely himself.

2) “Blood and Sauce” (Season 11, Episode 3)

The episode titled “Blood and Sauce” significantly impacts Bobby’s growing enthusiasm for culinary arts, as he grapples with the pressures set by his father. In a cheerful moment, Bobby, alongside Peggy, is engrossed in baking a cake. However, Hank’s entrance abruptly dampens Bobby’s spirits. Hank’s unease towards traditionally ‘feminine’ pastimes makes Bobby self-consciously relinquish his pink oven mitts, feeling embarrassed.

In an attempt to involve Bobby in a more stereotypically masculine activity, Hank signs him up to assist Bill with the food preparation for the upcoming Dauterive family gathering. Bobby is ecstatic, envisioning smoke, spices, and honor. However, upon discovering it involves strenuous tasks like constructing a pit and chopping wood, he decides to opt out. In his place, Bill takes on the responsibility.

Overcome by remorse, Bobby admits his wrongdoing to his parents and makes amends with Bill. Determined to make things right, he agrees to assist Bill once more and perseveres, despite the challenges that arise.

1) “To Sirloin With Love” (Season 13, Episode 20)

At the top is the title “To Sirloin With Love.” This episode brings a highly fulfilling end to the intricate relationship between Bobby and Hank, which has been marked by misunderstandings and strain over the years. In this episode, the chasm between father and son is bridged, offering a glimpse of the strong bond they’ve longed for but struggled to establish.

The episode beautifully summarizes Bobby’s path to discovering his true passion. It provides a fulfilling emotional resolution, indicating the course Bobby is set to take in the future.

The ‘To Sirloin With Love’ episode stands out as Bobby Hill’s finest due to its blend of laughter, emotion, and development of his character. This installment continues to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike, serving as a significant pillar in Bobby’s storyline.

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2025-08-04 04:41