Kirby 3DS

[E-Man]

This reading of Dedede is somewhat inconsistent with the anime and modern games.
In general, Dedede comes across more as someone who is rather selfish and has a huge rivalry with Kirby, yet still makes some attempt at occasionally being responsible and adventurous. He comes across less as being anything like "evil," but is still selfish and vengeful.

Now, this might be more as a result of a change in directors; after all, Sakurai was less involved in these later projects than in the earlier ones (Dream Land style games not included) and was also in direct control of Brawl.

At the same time, Brawl doesn't necessarily contradict the anime and modern games either. After all, Dedede is known to be a great planner (even if, er, they depend a bit too much on monsters clobbering dat Kirby), so his master plans involving those badges in Brawl is similar to his other plans where he does something seemingly "evil" but turns out to not be later on (KA and potentially Dynablade). As for hugging Kirby, that could be similar to how Dedede sort of nods/waves at Kirby after Nightmare is defeated in KA (he's overjoyed that the true enemy was defeated long enough to not care too much about his rivalry).

lol that wasn't even the point of your post, was it

but that continuity pretty seems tenable either way

For the reasons you addressed, it's no surprise that DeDeDe is one of the most beloved and creative villains in video games. Sure, the first impression of DeDeDe is an ignorant jerk who delights in causing pain and suffering to various people, but once you get to know him, he's actually one of the sweetest, most caring individuals you'd ever meet. Even if he is aggressive, selfish, and not above getting revenge on anyone who wrongs him, actually taking the time to form a friendly bond with him and looking carefully at his "diabolical plots" would make you forget these vices. Besides, while DeDeDe likes the idea of triumphing over Kirby (whether it be in "Gourmet Race" or "Revenge of the King"), he would rather have Kirby as a pal and give him a huge hug! Plus, how many times has DeDeDe helped Kirby defeat another antagonist?

DeDeDe has always been a personal favorite of mine because he is misunderstood and is actually very nice if you're willing to get to know him better.