Okay, Okay, Hear Me Out About "That" King of the Hill Episode
Let's talk about a *very* specific episode. Season 5, episode 13: "It's Not Easy Being Green". You know, the one with the recycling plant and all that jazz.
I have a confession. I kind of…like it. A lot.
Unpopular Opinion Incoming!
I know, I know. Some people find it preachy. Others think it's boring. But hold on! Let me make my case.
First off, Hank Hill trying to understand recycling is comedy gold. He's so confused and suspicious of the whole process. Pure Hank!
Remember his face when he finds out aluminum is worth money? Priceless.
Then there's Buck Strickland. The man's sheer disregard for the environment is both appalling and hilarious.
He's a walking, talking pollution machine. And he just doesn't care. Gotta love him.
The Beauty in the Mundane
King of the Hill always shines when it takes something ordinary and makes it funny. Recycling? Super ordinary.
But the writers find a way to mine the humor from it. I appreciate that.
This episode also features a classic Dale Gribble conspiracy theory. Of course.
He thinks the recycling plant is a government plot. Because, well, Dale.
It's More Than Just Recycling
Okay, so maybe the environmental message is a little heavy-handed. I'll give you that.
But it's really about Hank struggling with change. He's a creature of habit, folks!
Seeing him try to adapt to this new-fangled recycling thing is actually kind of sweet. In a Hank Hill kind of way, of course.
The Supporting Characters Shine
Peggy Hill, naturally, embraces recycling with gusto. She probably organized Arlen's first recycling drive.
And Bobby Hill just wants to make money. Classic Bobby.
Even Boomhauer gets a few good lines in there somewhere. Though I couldn't tell you *exactly* what he said.
Don't @ Me!
Look, I'm not saying this is the best King of the Hill episode ever. I'm just saying it doesn't deserve all the hate it gets.
It's a solid episode with some great jokes and a relatable theme.
Maybe give it another watch. You might be surprised. Or you might still hate it. That's okay too!
But next time you're sorting your recyclables, think of Hank Hill struggling with his blue bin. You might crack a smile.
"I'm gonna need a bigger trash can for all this recycling." - Hank Hill
Isn't that what King of the Hill is all about? Finding the humor in the everyday struggles of life?
It may not be a perfect episode, but "It's Not Easy Being Green" has a certain charm. A certain Arlen, Texas charm.
So, yeah, I like it. And I'm not afraid to admit it.
