Actor Jonathan Joss, voice of John Redcorn, fatally shot in San Antonio amid ongoing harassment.
Jonathan Joss, renowned for voicing John Redcorn in King of the Hill and portraying Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation, was fatally shot on June 1, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. The 59-year-old actor was visiting the site of his former home, which had burned down earlier that year, when he was confronted by neighbor Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja. An altercation ensued, resulting in Joss being shot multiple times. Ceja has been arrested and charged with murder.
A Life Marked by Talent and Advocacy
Born in San Antonio, Joss was of White Mountain Apache and Comanche heritage. He attended McCollum High School and later earned a degree in theater and speech from Our Lady of the Lake University. Joss’s career spanned various roles that highlighted Native American characters, including appearances in Ray Donovan and Tulsa King. He was also a musician, performing with The Red Corn Band, named after his iconic character.
Personal Struggles and Community Support
In January 2025, Joss’s home was destroyed in a fire, leading to the loss of his residence and three beloved dogs. The incident deeply affected him, and fans rallied to support him through a GoFundMe campaign. Joss had been open about facing harassment due to his sexual orientation, and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, described the fatal shooting as a homophobic hate crime. However, police have stated that their investigation has not found evidence indicating the shooting was related to Joss’s sexual orientation.
Legacy and Remembrance
Jonathan Joss’s contributions to the entertainment industry, especially in portraying authentic Native American characters, have left a lasting impact. His untimely death is a significant loss to fans and the broader community. As investigations continue, many remember Joss not only for his roles but also for his resilience and advocacy.
