San Antonio, Texas — Jonathan Joss, the voice behind John Redcorn in the animated series “King of the Hill,” has tragically died at the age of 59 in a violent incident that authorities are treating as a homicide. The San Antonio Police Department announced that Joss was found near a roadway following a shooting on Saturday, where after attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities identified the suspect as 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, who has been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. Reports indicate that the altercation leading to the incident stemmed from a heated dispute between Joss and his neighbor.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Joss’s husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, expressed his grief, claiming that Joss was “murdered by someone who could not stand the sight of two men loving each other.” He remarked on their relationship, stating that they shared a deep bond and that he was by Joss’s side when he passed, affirming his love for him.
The police department has addressed speculation surrounding the motives for the shooting. They stated that their investigation has found no indications suggesting the crime was rooted in Joss’s sexual orientation. Investigators are thoroughly examining all evidence, and they confirmed that any new findings could warrant additional charges against Ceja.
Earlier this year, Joss endured personal loss when a fire consumed his residence and took the lives of his two dogs. The home, constructed by his father in the 1950s, held significant emotional value for Joss. Following the tragedy, he shared a message of resilience on social media, reflecting on the importance of hope and gratitude as he moved forward in the wake of his loss.
Joss’s acting career was marked by notable roles, including an appearance in “Walker, Texas Ranger,” before he became widely recognized for his portrayal of John Redcorn, a character integral to the fabric of “King of the Hill.” He lent his voice to the series throughout its 13-season run and was set to reprise his role in an upcoming reboot.
In addition to his voice work, Joss appeared in various television series such as “ER,” “Charmed,” and “Friday Night Lights,” as well as films including “True Grit” and “The Magnificent Seven.” He was also known for his musical talents and performed with The Red Corn Band, a nod to his iconic role.
Just days before his untimely death, Joss shared excitement on social media about a successful performance, expressing gratitude for the support he received from fans and friends alike. His vibrant spirit and contributions to entertainment will be sorely missed.