Tragedy Strikes: Jonathan Joss, Voice of John Redcorn and Ken Hotate, Killed in San Antonio Shooting
The entertainment world is reeling from the devastating news that actor Jonathan Joss, widely recognized as the voice of John Redcorn in King of the Hill and Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Rec, has tragically passed away after being shot in San Antonio. His husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, has provided a heartbreaking account of the fatal incident, sparking a wider discussion about the circumstances surrounding his death. This article delves into the details of the shooting, explores Jonathan Joss's remarkable career, and reflects on the legacy he leaves behind as a beloved voice actor and advocate.
The community of fans who cherished the distinctive voice and presence of Jonathan Joss is in mourning following the shocking news of his death. On Sunday, June 1, 2025, the accomplished actor, known for bringing life to characters like John Redcorn in the iconic animated series King of the Hill and Chief Ken Hotate in the beloved sitcom Parks and Recreation, was fatally shot in San Antonio, Texas. The incident has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for justice. Police in San Antonio have confirmed the shooting and the arrest of a suspect, but the full picture of what led to this tragic event is still unfolding. However, a poignant statement from Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Jonathan Joss's husband, has shed light on the deeply troubling circumstances that preceded the shooting.
The Tragic Incident: Jonathan Joss Shot in San Antonio
Reports from authorities confirm that police were dispatched to a shooting in progress at a property in San Antonio around 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 1. Upon arrival, officers discovered Jonathan Joss near the roadway, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate attempts by first responders to administer life-saving measures, paramedics pronounced the 59-year-old actor dead at the scene. This sudden and violent end to a life dedicated to art and advocacy has left many stunned. The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Cejam (sometimes reported as Alvarez-Cega), was apprehended shortly after fleeing the scene in a vehicle. He has since been booked for murder, and the investigation by the San Antonio Police Department is ongoing.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting, particularly the motive, are under intense scrutiny. While police continue their investigation into whether the incident was a hate crime, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Jonathan Joss's husband, released a powerful statement that painted a disturbing picture of harassment leading up to the fatal shooting. According to Gonzales, he and Jonathan Joss were at the site of their former home in San Antonio – a home that had tragically burned down in January 2025, claiming the lives of three of their dogs. They were reportedly checking their mail when they made a horrifying discovery: the remains of one of their dogs, including its skull and harness, left in plain view. This discovery, understandably, caused them immense emotional distress.
Gonzales stated that as they were grieving and reacting to this traumatic sight, a man approached them. This individual allegedly began yelling "violent homophobic slurs" at them before raising a gun and firing. Tristan Kern de Gonzales emphasized that neither he nor Jonathan Joss were armed or threatening anyone. "Jonathan and I had no weapons. We were not threatening anyone. We were grieving. We were standing side by side. When the man fired Jonathan pushed me out of the way. He saved my life," Gonzales bravely recounted. He concluded his heart-wrenching statement by asserting, "He was murdered by someone who could not stand the sight of two men loving each other." While police continue to gather evidence, Gonzales's account highlights the deeply personal and potentially prejudiced nature of this horrific crime, raising urgent questions about hate and intolerance.
Jonathan Joss: The Voice Behind John Redcorn and Ken Hotate
Born Jonathan Joss Gonzales on December 22, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas, Jonathan Joss dedicated his life to acting and music. He honed his craft by attending San Antonio College and later graduating from Our Lady of the Lake University with a degree in theater and speech. His career spanned decades, showcasing his versatility in both voice acting and live-action roles. His most iconic contribution, and what made him a household name among animation enthusiasts, was undoubtedly his portrayal of John Redcorn in the highly acclaimed animated series King of the Hill. Jonathan Joss took over the role of the charismatic, spiritual, and often philandering Native American healer from original actor Victor Aaron, who tragically passed away in 1996. From Season 2 through the series' initial run, Jonathan Joss became the definitive voice of John Redcorn, lending the character a distinctive blend of gravitas, charm, and underlying melancholy. His performance resonated deeply with fans, making John Redcorn one of the show's most memorable supporting characters. Fans of the show eagerly anticipated his return to the role for the newly announced King of the Hill revival, which is set to premiere on Hulu in August. Just days before his death, Jonathan Joss was in Austin for promotional events related to the revival, expressing his excitement about fans getting to "revisit 'King of the Hill' again." He had already begun recording voice work for four episodes of the reboot, making his sudden passing an even greater blow to the production and the fans.
Beyond King of the Hill, Jonathan Joss also garnered significant recognition for his recurring role as Chief Ken Hotate in NBC's beloved comedy series Parks and Recreation. As the wise and comically pragmatic leader of the fictional Wamapoke Tribe, Chief Ken Hotate often served as a foil to Leslie Knope's (Amy Poehler) ambitious but sometimes naive plans. His deadpan delivery and memorable lines, such as his observation about white people's love for Matchbox Twenty and their fear of curses, made him a fan favorite. His appearances in Parks and Rec showcased his comedic timing and ability to steal scenes with understated wit. The news of the Parks and Rec actor shot has brought sadness to fans of that show as well.
A Versatile Actor: Beyond John Redcorn and Ken Hotate
While John Redcorn and Chief Ken Hotate are his most famous roles, Jonathan Joss had a diverse career in film and television. His extensive resume included appearances in numerous other notable productions, demonstrating his range and commitment to his craft. Early in his career, he appeared in television films like The Substitute Wife (1994) and Without Consent (1994), as well as multiple episodes of Walker, Texas Ranger (1994), where he played Young Raymond Firewalker and Eddie. He also featured in the miniseries Dead Man's Walk (1996) and Comanche Moon (2008), often portraying Native American characters, reflecting his own Comanche and White Mountain Apache ancestry. This commitment to authentic representation was a significant aspect of his career.
His television credits also included guest roles on popular dramas such as Charmed (2003), ER (2004), Justice League Unlimited (2005), Into the West (2005), In Plain Sight (2008), Friday Night Lights (2010), The League (2014), and The Messengers (2015). More recently, he appeared in Ray Donovan (2016), Tulsa King (2022), and the podcast series Bridgewater (2021). On the big screen, Jonathan Joss also left his mark in films like True Grit (2010), The Magnificent Seven (2016), and The Forever Purge (2021). His breadth of work showcased an actor dedicated to his craft, consistently delivering compelling performances across various genres. The tragic news of the King of the Hill actor shot and the Parks and Rec actor shot underscores the fragility of life for even public figures.
Tristan Kern de Gonzales: A Husband's Heartbreak and the Fight for Justice
The personal testimony from Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Jonathan Joss's husband, has profoundly impacted the public's understanding of this tragedy. They were married on Valentine's Day in 2025, just months before the horrific incident. Gonzales's statement revealed a harrowing ordeal that began long before the fatal shooting. He described "years of threats" and "harassment regularly" by individuals in their former neighborhood who "made it clear they did not accept our relationship." He explicitly stated that "much of the harassment was openly homophobic," suggesting a deeply rooted animosity based on their sexuality. This context is crucial as the San Antonio Police Department continues to investigate whether the murder was a hate crime. While police initially stated they found no evidence to indicate the murder was related to his sexual orientation, Gonzales's account demands thorough examination. The finding of their deceased dog's remains at their burned-down former home adds a layer of cruel provocation to the events leading up to the shooting.
Gonzales's courage in sharing his story is a testament to his love for Jonathan Joss and his determination to honor his husband's legacy. He spoke of Jonathan Joss's bravery in pushing him out of the way, saving his life, and how he was with Joss when he passed, telling him how much he was loved. This deeply personal account has resonated with many, bringing attention to the violence and prejudice still faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community. The support from fans and friends has been a source of comfort for Gonzales, who stated that Joss "valued you deeply. He saw you as family." His immediate focus is now on protecting Jonathan Joss's legacy and the life they built together, ensuring that his memory and the circumstances of his death are not forgotten.
The Legacy of Jonathan Joss: A Beloved Voice and Cultural Figure
The untimely death of Jonathan Joss is a significant loss to the entertainment industry and to his many fans. As the voice of John Redcorn, he was part of an animated series that skillfully blended humor with insightful social commentary, often touching on themes of family, community, and Native American culture. His portrayal of John Redcorn, a character with Comanche and White Mountain Apache ancestry, offered a nuanced and often complex depiction that resonated with many. His work on King of the Hill spanned over a decade, making him an integral part of its enduring success and cultural impact. The anticipation for the King of the Hill revival was heightened by his planned return, making his absence all the more poignant.
Similarly, his role as Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation provided moments of sharp satire and unexpected wisdom, contributing to the show's reputation as a smart and beloved comedy. His ability to deliver dry humor while commenting on cultural dynamics showcased his unique talent. The news of the King of the Hill voice actor shot and the Parks and Rec actor shot has been met with sadness across various fan communities, highlighting the widespread affection for his work.
Beyond his on-screen and voice roles, Jonathan Joss was also a musician, performing as part of The Red Corn Band, a clear homage to his most famous character. He was also known for his kind and grateful interactions with fans, considering them part of his extended family. His recent presence at the ATX TV Festival, enthusiastically discussing the upcoming King of the Hill revival, underscores his continued passion for his craft and his connection with the audience. His death, particularly under such violent and potentially hate-motivated circumstances, serves as a tragic reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by marginalized communities. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through his memorable characters, his music, and the powerful testimony of his husband, inspiring further conversations about acceptance and justice. The outpouring of grief and remembrance from colleagues, fans, and media, including outlets like The Guardian, speaks volumes about the impact he had on many lives. The ongoing investigation into the **San Antonio shooting** will hopefully bring full clarity and accountability for this devastating loss.
The tragic loss of Jonathan Joss reminds us of the profound connection we form with artists and the characters they bring to life. His contributions to shows like King of the Hill and Parks and Rec will continue to entertain and resonate, while the circumstances of his death highlight urgent issues that demand attention. His life was a testament to resilience, talent, and love, and his memory will be honored by those who admired his work and championed his spirit.
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