28 Years Ago, King of the Hill Delivered Its Most Iconic Halloween Episode (And Featured an Oscar Winning Actress)

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Today marks the 28th anniversary of what is widely considered the best Halloween episode of King of the Hill, and it still resonates with viewers as strongly as it did when it first aired. Unlike shows like The Simpsons or Bob’s Burgers, which often feature Halloween episodes every year, King of the Hill rarely focused on the holiday during its 15 seasons on FOX. In fact, the show only had two Halloween-themed episodes, and both are considered classics.

Today marks the 28th anniversary of the premiere of “Hilloween,” an episode of King of the Hill that first aired on October 26, 1997. It was the show’s first take on Halloween, and it showed Hank Hill really enjoying the holiday and wanting to celebrate with his son. However, things get complicated when Junie Harper, a very enthusiastic Christian woman voiced by Sally Field, arrives and tries to get Halloween banned in town.

King of the Hill’s Best Halloween Episode Premiered 28 Years Ago Today

The episode “Hilloween,” which appeared in the second season of King of the Hill, introduced Halloween to the town of Arlen. Like many early episodes, it challenged Hank’s beliefs in unexpected ways. The show primarily revolved around the relationship between Hank and his son, Bobby, and Hank consistently tried to instill his values in Bobby as the world around them evolved. Throughout it all, Hank was always searching for ways to connect with his son.

Bobby and his father, Hank, are quite different. While Hank loves sports, Bobby prefers comedy and other hobbies. Because of their contrasting interests, Hank cherishes finding activities they both enjoy, especially during Halloween, which they both look forward to. Interestingly, Hank himself was a mischievous child and used to play pranks with his friends when he was younger.

People often think of Hank as conservative because of his strong beliefs, but that’s not quite the whole story. He’s more of a traditionalist who really prioritizes what he values. This difference becomes even clearer with the introduction of Junie Harper, played by Sally Field. Junie is portrayed as a very devout Christian who strongly dislikes Halloween, believing it’s connected to evil and beliefs outside of Christianity.

King of the Hill Uses Halloween to Fight Bad Faith

Harper tries to get the neighborhood to cancel Halloween, hoping to draw the town’s children into a Christian youth group. She pressures them into making choices they’re not ready for, often using manipulation – like enlisting Luanne’s help or offering treats – to get her way. Hank, however, sees Halloween simply as a fun tradition to share with his son and doesn’t believe it conflicts with his faith.

This is when Hank first shows he doesn’t agree with strict religious views. He not only protests the town’s ban on Halloween, but he even dresses as the devil to save Bobby from Harper’s house. Despite the ban, Hank and the neighbors go trick-or-treating, and it’s Hank’s enthusiasm for the holiday that helps Bobby get away. During this, Bobby realizes what’s really important isn’t the candy or Halloween itself, but simply spending time with his dad.

The King of the Hill episode “Hilloween,” which aired 28 years ago, was a huge hit. Because it was so successful, the show didn’t create many more episodes specifically centered around Halloween. While there were a couple of later episodes with spooky themes – including one featuring Michael Keaton – and one focused on Hank’s fear of bats, “Hilloween” remains the show’s only true Halloween special. Sometimes, a single, well-done episode is all you need.

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2025-10-26 20:40