Remembering Jonathan Joss: The Voice Behind King of the Hill’s John Redcorn

Introduction

The entertainment industry has suffered a heartbreaking loss with the tragic passing of Jonathan Joss, the talented voice actor best known for portraying John Redcorn in the iconic animated series King of the Hill. Joss was fatally shot outside his home in San Antonio, Texas, on June 2, 2025. His death has left fans, colleagues, and loved ones mourning the loss of a gifted performer whose contributions to television will never be forgotten.

In this article, we reflect on Jonathan Joss‘s career, his impact on the industry, and the tragic circumstances surrounding his passing.

Who Was Jonathan Joss?

Jonathan Joss was a Native American actor who gained widespread recognition for his role as John Redcorn in King of the Hill. His portrayal of the character was authentic and deeply respected, making him a beloved figure among fans of the show. Joss took over the role after the original voice actor, Victor Aaron, passed away in 1996.

Beyond King of the Hill, Joss had a successful career in television and film, appearing in shows like Parks and Recreation, where he played Chief Ken Hotate, and Tulsa King. His film credits include The Lone Ranger and Casino Jack, where he continued to represent Native American characters with dignity and depth.

The Tragic Incident: What Happened?

On June 2, 2025, Jonathan Joss was fatally shot outside his home in San Antonio, Texas. According to reports, Joss and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, were checking their mail when they were approached by a man who threatened them with a gun. The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, allegedly yelled violent homophobic slurs before opening fire.

Joss’s husband later revealed that the couple had faced harassment in the past, much of it openly homophobic. Tragically, Joss pushed his husband out of the way, saving his life before succumbing to his injuries. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but despite their efforts, Joss was pronounced dead.

Authorities arrested Ceja and charged him with murder. However, police have stated that their investigation has not found evidence linking the crime to Joss’s sexual orientation. The case remains under review, and further details may emerge as the investigation continues1.

Jonathan Joss’s Legacy in Entertainment

Jonathan Joss‘s contributions to television and film were significant, particularly in his representation of Native American characters. His role as John Redcorn in King of the Hill was one of the most memorable characters in the series, and his voice work helped bring authenticity to the portrayal of Indigenous culture.

Key Contributions to Television and Film

• King of the Hill (1997–2008) – Voiced John Redcorn, a Native American healer.
• Parks and Recreation – Played Chief Ken Hotate, a recurring character.
• Tulsa King (2022) – Appeared in two episodes.
• The Lone Ranger (2013) – Featured in a supporting role.
• Casino Jack (2010) – Played a Native American character.

Joss was also set to reprise his role in the upcoming reboot of King of the Hill, which was scheduled to premiere in August 2025. His passing has left a void in the industry, and fans will deeply miss his presence1.

Tributes from Friends and Colleagues

Following his tragic death, tributes poured in from fellow actors, fans, and industry professionals. Many remembered Joss as a kind-hearted, talented individual who was passionate about his work.

• Mike Judge, creator of King of the Hill, shared: “Jonathan was an incredible talent and a wonderful person. His voice brought John Redcorn to life in a way that resonated with so many. He will be deeply missed.”
• Amy Poehler, who worked with Joss on Parks and Recreation, posted: “Heartbroken to hear about Jonathan. He was a joy to work with and a truly kind soul.”
• Fans on social media expressed their grief, sharing clips of Joss’s performances and celebrating his contributions to television.

Lessons from Jonathan Joss’s Tragic Passing

Jonathan Joss‘s death is a reminder of the ongoing issues of violence and discrimination. While authorities have not officially classified the incident as a hate crime, the circumstances surrounding his murder have sparked conversations about safety, inclusivity, and the need for stronger protections.

Key Takeaways

✅ Raising Awareness About Hate Crimes – The tragic nature of Joss’s death highlights the importance of addressing discrimination and violence. ✅ Honoring His Legacy – Fans and colleagues must continue to celebrate Joss’s contributions to entertainment. ✅ Advocating for Safer Communities – Ensuring that individuals, regardless of their background, feel safe and protected in their own homes.

Final Thoughts

Jonathan Joss‘s passing is a devastating loss for the entertainment industry and his loved ones. His talent, kindness, and dedication to his craft will always be remembered. As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—one of passion, perseverance, and representation.

Rest in peace, Jonathan Joss. Your voice will continue to echo in the hearts of those who admired you.

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