Tragic Loss: Jonathan Joss, Beloved Voice Actor, Gunned Down
Jonathan Joss, the acclaimed actor renowned for his role as John Redcorn in the long-running animated series King of the Hill, was tragically shot and killed at the age of 59. The incident, which his husband described as a potential hate crime, has sparked significant outrage and an ongoing investigation.
Details Surrounding the Incident
On June 3, 2025, Joss was reportedly visiting the site of their former residence in Texas, which had been destroyed by fire earlier in the year. According to his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, the couple was met with violent homophobic slurs from a man who then proceeded to shoot at them. Joss heroically pushed de Gonzales out of the way, ultimately losing his own life in the process.
In a heartfelt post on social media, de Gonzales shared the couple’s pain upon discovering the remains of their deceased pet, which triggered an emotional outburst that led to the confrontation. He expressed deep gratitude toward Joss, saying, “He gave me more love in our time together than most people ever get.” The couple had recently married on Valentine’s Day and was in the process of looking for a new home.
Law Enforcement Response
The San Antonio Police Department responded to reports of the shooting, finding Joss near a roadway. Initial investigations have not confirmed the murder as a hate crime, although de Gonzales insists the circumstances point towards one. Chief of Police stated, “Investigators handle these allegations very seriously and have thoroughly reviewed all available information.”
A suspect identified as Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja has been arrested and is facing murder charges. Police indicated that if new evidence emerges, further charges could be pursued.
A Community in Mourning
The news of Joss’s death has sent shockwaves throughout Hollywood and the fan community. Fellow actors and colleagues have come forward to express their sorrow. Nick Offerman, who starred alongside Joss in Parks and Recreation, described him as “such a sweet guy” and conveyed the deep sense of loss felt by the cast.
The creators of King of the Hill, including Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, released a statement honoring Joss’s legacy, saying, “His voice will be missed at King of the Hill, and we extend our deepest condolences to Jonathan’s friends and family.”
Recent Appearances and Impact
Joss was recently seen at the ATX Television Festival, where he participated in a panel for King of the Hill. His passion for the character and the series was evident as he expressed feelings of exclusion regarding invitations to events related to the show he helped define for over a dozen seasons.
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Shooting Incident | 3 June 2025 | Joss shot while visiting devastated home |
| Wedding | 14 February 2025 | Marriage to Tristan Kern de Gonzales |
| Last Public Appearance | Date of ATX Television Festival | Panel for King of the Hill |
This heart-wrenching event highlights not only a personal loss for Joss’s loved ones but also a glaring reminder of the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community. As the investigation continues, the demand for justice and acknowledgment of hate crimes remains strong.
