33 Unofficial Fan Theories That Have Been Largely Accepted As Canon

Though Dale Gribble is often dismissed as King of the Hill’s cigarette-smoking, conspiracy-loving freak, his paranoia might not be as irrational as lugging around pocket sand would indicate. In fact, a Redditor introduced a fan theory that suggests his tinfoil-hat tendencies may even be justified: That Boomhauer — who is revealed to be a Texas Ranger at the end of the show — has been keeping Gribble under strict government surveillance throughout the series’ 13 seasons.

“There is a theory that Dale was just wacko enough for the feds to notice, and they looked for, and found, a marshal who had known him from boyhood,” user Elendilmir explained. “It is more or less his job to monitor Dale. Since Dale isn’t really dangerous, Boomhauer’s job is very easy. It’s why we never really see him work, he just drinks beer with Dale, files reports weekly and has plenty of time to chase women.” 

Regardless of the theory’s validity, it’s plausible enough to convince diehard King of the Hill fans that there’s more to Boomhauer’s story. They’re not alone either — other Redditors have divulged the fan theories they’ve accepted as canon, from Jar Jar Binks’ Sith status to the actual setting of SpongeBob SquarePants.