The world of animation and television lost a singular voice on June 1, 2025, when Jonathan Joss, the actor best known for bringing John Redcorn to life in the acclaimed series King of the Hill, was shot and killed in San Antonio, Texas at the age of 59.
As fans mourn his passing, it’s worth reflecting on the cultural impact of John Redcorn, the remarkable career of Jonathan Joss, and the circumstances that led to this tragic loss.
Who Was John Redcorn?
John Redcorn is a beloved character from King of the Hill, the long-running animated sitcom created by Mike Judge and Greg Daniels. Debuting in the show’s second season, John Redcorn is a Native American “New Age healer” and masseur, known for his calm demeanor, spiritual wisdom, and, most infamously, his long-running affair with Nancy Gribble. The character became a fan favorite for his dry wit, unique perspective, and the way he highlighted issues of Native American identity and marginalization in a Texas suburb.
John Redcorn’s presence in King of the Hill was more than comedic relief. He was often the show’s lens into topics like cultural appropriation, historical trauma, and the erasure of Indigenous voices. His attempts to connect his son Joseph to his heritage—despite the secrecy of his paternity—added layers of poignancy and humor to the series.
Jonathan Joss: The Voice Behind the Legend
Jonathan Joss began voicing John Redcorn in season two, stepping into the role after the original actor, Victor Aaron, died in a car accident in 1996. Joss’s performance imbued the character with warmth and authenticity, drawing on his own Native American heritage. He voiced John Redcorn through the show’s 13-season run, and had already recorded dialogue for the highly anticipated King of the Hill revival, set to premiere on Hulu in August 2025.
Joss’s talents extended far beyond King of the Hill. He was known for his recurring role as Chief Ken Hotate on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, where he brought humor and dignity to the portrayal of a tribal leader. His film credits included appearances in The Magnificent Seven (2016), True Grit, and Ray Donovan, as well as voice work in the video game Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom.
A Year of Hardship and Loss
2025 had already been a year of profound personal hardship for Joss. In January, a fire devastated his family home in San Antonio, a house built by his relatives in the 1950s. The blaze claimed the lives of three of his beloved dogs and destroyed nearly all his possessions. Joss expressed his grief and gratitude for community support in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing, “We may have lost our home, but not our hope. We’re moving forward with love, humor, and a little elbow grease… and we’re incredibly grateful for every ounce of support”.
Despite these setbacks, Joss remained active and engaged with fans. In May, he hosted “The Redcorn Experience” in Austin, Texas, a meet-and-greet event featuring live music, stories, and the infectious energy that defined his career.
The Tragic Shooting and Its Aftermath
On the evening of June 1, 2025, San Antonio police responded to reports of gunfire on Dorsey Drive. They found Joss lying near the street, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders attempted to revive him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, was apprehended a block away and charged with murder.
Accounts of the incident indicate a history of conflict between Joss and his neighbor. Some reports suggest a longstanding feud that had never turned violent until that night. Joss’s husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, has alleged that the shooting was preceded by homophobic slurs and was a hate crime, but police have stated there is no evidence to support this claim at this time.
The tragedy was compounded by the fact that Joss and his husband were visiting the site of their former home—destroyed in the January fire—when the shooting occurred. According to Gonzales, the couple had faced ongoing threats from neighbors, and the emotional toll of returning to the scene was immense.
The Enduring Impact of John Redcorn and Jonathan Joss
Jonathan Joss’s death is a loss not only to the entertainment world but also to the communities he represented. His portrayal of John Redcorn brought Native American stories and humor into millions of homes, challenging stereotypes and offering a rare, nuanced depiction of Indigenous life in mainstream media.
As fans await the Hulu revival of King of the Hill, Joss’s final performance as John Redcorn will serve as a bittersweet tribute to his talent and legacy. His voice, humor, and advocacy will continue to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the power of representation and the enduring need for compassion in the face of tragedy.
In His Own Words
“That character, that voice, that story… were my something bigger than myself. Not being there feels like being out of place in a world I helped build.”
— Jonathan Joss, April 2025
Jonathan Joss may be gone, but the spirit of John Redcorn—and the laughter, wisdom, and hope he brought to so many—will live on.
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