SAN ANTONIO, TX — Jonathan Joss, best known for voicing the iconic Native American character John Redcorn on the hit animated series King of the Hill, was tragically shot and killed outside his San Antonio home on Saturday, June 1, 2025. He was 59.

According to law enforcement officials, the fatal shooting followed a confrontation between Joss and his neighbor, 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja. Witnesses and police reports confirm that Ceja hurled homophobic slurs at Joss and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, before opening fire. Joss heroically shielded his husband from the gunfire, sacrificing his own life in the process.

The couple had returned to their burned-down home to check mail and discovered the remains of one of their deceased dogs. Ceja, who reportedly had a long-standing feud with Joss, confronted them during the visit. He was arrested shortly after the incident and is currently being held on a $200,000 bond. Authorities are investigating the shooting as a possible hate crime.

Jonathan Joss, the voice of John Redcorn in ‘King of The Hill’ has sadly passed away at the age of 59 after being fatally shot by his neighbor, TMZ reports. pic.twitter.com/bKiUYpCcxI

— ToonHive (@ToonHive) June 2, 2025

Jonathan Joss, who was of Comanche and White Mountain Apache heritage, had a decades-long career in Hollywood portraying Native American characters with authenticity and pride. He also starred as Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation, appeared in True Grit, and most recently had a role in Tulsa King.

Joss was set to reprise his beloved role as John Redcorn in Hulu’s upcoming King of the Hill reboot, scheduled for release in August 2025. Hours before his death, he posted a video expressing his excitement about the project and gratitude for his fans.

Fans, fellow actors, and advocacy groups across the country are mourning his loss, remembering him as a trailblazer for Indigenous and LGBTQ+ representation in media.

His husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, released a heartfelt statement:

“Jonathan died a hero, protecting me. He was proud of who he was, where he came from, and what he stood for. I will continue his fight for justice and truth.”

Legacy and Impact

Jonathan Joss leaves behind an unforgettable legacy as a voice actor, activist, and role model. He used his platform to challenge stereotypes and give a voice to underrepresented communities in entertainment. His death is not only a loss for fans of King of the Hill, but for anyone who values equality, representation, and courage in the face of hatred.

Ongoing Investigation

As the San Antonio Police Department continues its investigation, calls for justice and action against hate-fueled violence grow louder. Supporters are demanding Ceja be charged with a hate crime in addition to murder in this troubling celebrity news.