Vale: Johnny Hardwick

US actor Johnny Hardwick, who voiced Dale Gribble on King of the Hill has died, aged 64.

The Hollywood Reporter notes officers found him dead in his home in Austin, Texas on Tuesday. The case is not being investigated as a homicide and the cause of death will be determined by authorities.

Hardwick voiced chain-smoking Dale — the conspiracy theorist who lives next door to his best friend, propane accessory salesman Hank Hill (Mike Judge) from 1997-2010.

He appeared on more than 250 episodes and was a writer, story editor and producer on the show.

“Johnny Hardwick was an incredibly beloved member of the King of the Hill family, whose tremendous talent, brilliant humor and friendship will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to work with him over the past 25 years,” 20th Television Animation and Hulu said in a statement.

“Our deepest condolences go out to his friends and family as we mourn the loss of one of the animation greats. His voice gave life to one of our most iconic characters, and he will be truly missed.”

Hardwick was also set to participate in a revival of King of the Hill at Hulu, with other original actors Kathy Najimy, Stephen Root, Pamela Adlon and Lauren Tom.

Sources say he while had recorded a couple of new episodes he had not completed his work. It’s unclear what producers will do in terms of his character.